The Union Cabinet has approved the Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs (PM SETU) scheme to improve vocational training in India. The scheme aims to modernise Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs), strengthen industry linkage, and make skilling more relevant to current and emerging labour market needs. It is designed to improve employability through better training delivery, upgraded infrastructure, and industry-led governance.
Key Objectives of PM SETU
- Improve the quality of training in ITIs and NSTIs.
- Upgrade infrastructure and equipment to industry standards.
- Introduce long-term and short-term courses in emerging sectors.
- Strengthen industry linkage for demand-driven skilling.
- Enhance the capacity of NSTIs for training trainers.
Two Major Components
The scheme has two components. The first covers upgradation of 1,000 Government ITIs under a Hub and Spoke model, with 200 Hub ITIs and 800 Spoke ITIs. This includes smart classrooms, modern labs, digital content, and new industry-aligned courses. The second component focuses on capacity augmentation of five NSTIs in Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kanpur, and Ludhiana. It also includes setting up sector-specific National Centres of Excellence for advanced trainer development.
Implementation and Governance
Selection of ITIs under PM SETU will be led by State and Union Territory governments in consultation with industry. States and UTs are required to submit proposals in partnership with industry stakeholders. A National Steering Committee chaired by the Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, will provide policy direction, finalise guidelines, monitor progress, and support course correction. State Steering Committees led by Chief Secretaries will oversee implementation at the State level.
State-Level Progress and Relevance
- Twenty-five States and UTs have formed State Steering Committees.
- Ten States and UTs have floated proposals to invite industry interest.
- Maharashtra has identified pilot clusters in Pune, Nagpur, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.
- Bihar has identified pilot clusters in Patna and Darbhanga.