Expansion of IITs Announced

The Union Cabinet of India made decision to enhance the academic and infrastructure capacity of five new Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). This initiative aims to improve educational resources and support industry collaboration. The total investment for this expansion is ₹11,828.79 crore, planned over four years from 2025-26 to 2028-29.

Overview of the IIT Expansion

The expansion will focus on five IITs – IIT Tirupati, IIT Palakkad, IIT Bhilai, IIT Jammu, and IIT Dharwad. The funds will primarily support phase B of construction, which will enhance facilities and resources. Additionally, the plan includes the establishment of five state-of-the-art research parks to strengthen the connection between academia and industry.

Increase in Student Capacity

The student intake at these IITs will rise . Currently, the combined student capacity is 7,111. Upon completion of the expansion, this number will increase to 13,687. The increase will occur gradually, with 1,364 students added in the first year, followed by 1,738 in the second year, 1,767 in the third year, and 1,707 in the fourth year. This will include undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programmes.

National Scheme for Industrial Training Institutes

Alongside the IIT expansion, the Cabinet approved a national scheme to upgrade Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs). This scheme has an outlay of ₹60,000 crore, with a central share of ₹30,000 crore. The initiative aims to enhance 1,000 government ITIs and establish five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling. It will focus on aligning trades with industry needs and improving the quality of vocational training.

Collaboration with Financial Institutions

The upgrading scheme will involve co-financing from the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank. They will contribute equally to 50% of the central share. This collaboration aims to ensure that the ITIs can effectively address the skill gaps in the industry, thus enhancing employability for youth.

Expected Outcomes

The national scheme is expected to skill 20 lakh youth over five years. It aims to transform existing ITIs into aspirational institutes managed in collaboration with industry and state governments. This will help meet the human capital demands of various sectors.

Faculty Recruitment

The Cabinet also approved the creation of 130 faculty positions at the professor level across the five IITs. This will ensure that high-quality education and research can be maintained as student numbers increase.

Questions for UPSC –

1. Critically examine the role of Indian Institutes of Technology in the context of national development.
2. Discuss the importance of collaboration between educational institutions and industry in skill development.
3. What are the implications of government funding for the expansion of technical education? Explain.
4. What are the challenges faced by Industrial Training Institutes in India? How can they be addressed effectively?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically examine the role of Indian Institutes of Technology in the context of national development.

1. IITs contribute to innovation and research, driving technological advancements in various sectors.
2. They produce a skilled workforce that meets the demands of the industry, enhancing economic growth.
3. IITs promote entrepreneurship by providing incubation facilities and support for startups.
4. They encourage international collaborations, enhancing India’s global standing in education and technology.
5. IITs play a key role in addressing societal challenges through research and development initiatives.

2. Discuss the importance of collaboration between educational institutions and industry in skill development.

1. Collaboration ensures that curricula are aligned with current industry needs, making graduates more employable.
2. It facilitates internships and practical training opportunities for students, bridging the gap between theory and practice.
3. Industry partnerships can lead to funding and resources for educational institutions, enhancing their capabilities.
4. Joint research initiatives can drive innovation and technological advancements beneficial to both sectors.
5. Such collaborations help in developing soft skills and professional competencies among students, preparing them for the workforce.

3. What are the implications of government funding for the expansion of technical education? Explain.

1. Government funding enhances infrastructure and resources, improving the quality of education in technical institutions.
2. It allows for increased student intake, addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in various industries.
3. Funding supports research initiatives, encouraging innovation and development in technology and engineering fields.
4. It can lead to the establishment of new programs and courses that meet emerging industry trends and needs.
5. Government investment can stimulate private sector involvement, encouraging a more holistic approach to technical education.

4. What are the challenges faced by Industrial Training Institutes in India? How can they be addressed effectively?

1. Challenges include outdated curricula that do not meet current industry standards; regular updates and industry input are essential.
2. Insufficient infrastructure and resources hinder effective training; increased government and private funding can help improve facilities.
3. Lack of skilled instructors affects the quality of education; targeted recruitment and training programs for faculty are needed.
4. Weak industry linkages limit practical exposure for students; establishing partnerships with local industries can enhance training relevance.
5. Awareness about vocational training options is low; public campaigns can promote the value of ITI education among youth.