The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) provided a comprehensive update on the upgradation of Industrial Training Institute (ITI) infrastructure across India. The Directorate General of Training (DGT) supports ITI upgradation through schemes like the Upgradation of Existing Government ITIs into Model ITIs and the Skill Strengthening for Industrial Value Enhancement (STRIVE) Scheme, with ITIs remaining under state government administrative and financial control.
A 2024 Tracer Study conducted under the STRIVE Scheme assessed employment outcomes of ITI pass-outs, finding that 78.8% of respondents expressed satisfaction with the modernized infrastructure at ITIs. Under STRIVE, financial assistance of Rs. 25.88 crore was provided to Andhra Pradesh specifically for upgradation of 15 ITIs.
The state-wise fund release under the Upgradation of Existing Government ITIs into Model ITIs scheme shows a total approved allocation of Rs. 23,221.51 lakh, with central allocation of Rs. 16,728.36 lakh. Total central funds released up to March 31, 2024, amounted to Rs. 13,921.48 lakh, with utilization certificates received for Rs. 13,252.44 lakh. Major recipients included ITI Ayodhya, ITI Chandauli, and ITI Basti in Uttar Pradesh (Rs. 600 lakh each), and ITI Gajuwaka in Andhra Pradesh (Rs. 630 lakh).
Curriculum development for ITI training programs is undertaken every three years. Over the last five years, significant course development included 21 new Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS) courses, 15 short-term courses, 17 Flexi-MoU courses, and one Craft Instructor Training Scheme (CITS) course, all approved by NCVET. Additionally, 40 CTS courses were revised and approved to align with industry requirements.
The 21 new CTS courses include 5G Network Technician, Artificial Intelligence Programming Assistant, Cyber Security Technician, Green Hydrogen Production Technician, Industrial IoT Technician, Semiconductor Technician, and Wind Plant Technician. The 15 short-term courses cover basics of cybersecurity, generative AI, IT skills, semiconductor technology, and railway-specific skills. The 17 Flexi-MoU courses focus on automotive manufacturing, industrial fitting, mechatronics, and web development.
Under CTS, 32 New Age Courses have been introduced, including Green Hydrogen Production Technician and Internet of Things Technician. Enrollment in these New Age Courses has increased dramatically from 8,611 trainees in the 2022-23 session to 42,338 trainees in the 2025-26 session, representing nearly a five-fold increase. The complete list of 32 New Age Trades includes Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing) Technician, Drone Pilot (Junior), Electric Vehicle Mechanic, Nuclear Power Plant Technician, and Solar Technician (Electrical).