The Maharashtra state cabinet has taken a significant decision on Tuesday regarding the comprehensive modernization of Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across the state under the ambitious PM Setu scheme. This strategic move aims to effectively bridge the persistent gap between the demand and supply of skilled manpower in various industrial sectors.
Phased Implementation and Financial Framework
Officials confirmed that the scheme will be implemented in a structured, phased manner starting next year. The financial model involves a collaborative funding approach where the central government will contribute 50% of the required funds, the state government will provide 33%, and the industry sector will shoulder the remaining 17%.
For each cluster comprising one hub ITI and four spoke model ITIs, the estimated cost over five years is projected at Rs 241 crore. Specifically, the central government's share amounts to Rs 112 crore, the state government will provide Rs 98 crore, and the industry sector's contribution is set at Rs 31 crore. The state cabinet has already approved its share of Rs 98 crore for the initial five-year period.
First Phase Locations and Hub-Spoke Model
The first phase of this modernization initiative will focus on three key regions: Nagpur, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, and Pune. A sophisticated hub-and-spoke model will be developed to optimize resource allocation and training effectiveness.
Nagpur Cluster Details
In Nagpur, the government ITI will be modernized as a central hub. Additionally, several ITIs for girls will be upgraded, including facilities in Nagpur, Kamati, Hingna, and Butibori, ensuring gender-inclusive skill development opportunities.
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar Cluster
The Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar region will see its ITI transformed into a hub, accompanied by modernization of ITIs in Paithan, Khultabad, Gangapur, and Phulambri, creating a comprehensive training network in the area.
Pune Cluster Development
Pune's modernization efforts will center around the ITI in Aundh as the primary hub, while girls' ITIs in Aundh, Khed-Rajgurunagar, and Mulshi will also receive significant upgrades, strengthening the region's vocational training infrastructure.
Curriculum Enhancement and Course Expansion
The modernization plan includes substantial curriculum improvements across all upgraded institutes. On average, each hub ITI will introduce four new courses while upgrading ten existing programs. Spoke model ITIs will implement two new courses and enhance eight existing ones.
A particularly innovative aspect of the scheme involves introducing service sector courses, multi-skill programs, and livelihood-focused training in areas with fewer industrial establishments. This tailored approach ensures that training programs align with local economic needs and employment opportunities.
Background on Maharashtra ITIs
Industrial Training Institutes in Maharashtra serve as crucial vocational training centers governed by the Directorate of Vocational Education and Training (DVET). These institutes offer technical skill-based courses lasting one to two years, primarily targeting students who have completed 8th to 10th grade education.
With an extensive network of over 419 government-run and 585 private ITIs across the state, these institutions focus on practical trades such as electrician training, fitter programs, and mechanics courses. Their primary objective remains preparing students for immediate employment opportunities or apprenticeship programs upon completion of their training.
This comprehensive modernization initiative under the PM Setu scheme represents a significant step toward enhancing the quality and relevance of vocational education in Maharashtra, ultimately strengthening the state's industrial workforce and economic competitiveness.
