The Directorate General of Training under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship continues to expand vocational training through the Craftsmen Training Scheme. The scheme is delivered through Industrial Training Institutes and National Skill Training Institutes across the country. It is designed to provide trade-based skills for wage employment and self-employment, while keeping training aligned with changing industry needs.
Scale of the training network
The Craftsmen Training Scheme is currently offered in 169 trades through 14,688 ITIs and 32 NSTIs. Of the ITIs, 3,345 are government-run and 11,343 are private. In the 2025–26 academic session, 14.70 lakh trainees have enrolled under the scheme. Since the 2014–15 session, around 97.36 lakh candidates have been certified after successful completion of training and assessment.
Curriculum and new-age trades
The course curriculum is updated periodically in consultation with industry, academia, and State and Union Territory governments. The aim is to include emerging technologies, modern tools, equipment, and machinery. Out of 169 trades, 31 new-age trades have been introduced. These cover areas such as:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Internet of Things
- Renewable energy
- 3D printing
PM SETU for ITI modernisation
The Cabinet has approved PM SETU, or Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs, with an estimated outlay of ₹60,000 crore. The funding pattern includes ₹30,000 crore from the Centre, ₹20,000 crore from States, and ₹10,000 crore from industry. The scheme aims to upgrade 1,000 ITIs through hub-and-spoke arrangements in partnership with State Governments and industry. It also proposes industry-led Special Purpose Vehicles to align course design with labour market demand and introduce new courses in emerging sectors.
Assessment and certification framework
Trainees under CTS are assessed through the All India Trade Test conducted by DGT. Successful candidates receive National Trade Certificates. This certification system supports standardisation of vocational skills across trades and institutions. It also helps improve employability by providing nationally recognised credentials.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026