In a major push towards skill development, the Indian government has launched the PM-Setu scheme aimed at transforming 1,000 government Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across the nation. This ambitious initiative promises to equip these institutes with state-of-the-art infrastructure, ensuring young aspirants receive world-class training that aligns with industry demands.
The scheme, formally known as Pradhan Mantri Skill Enhancement and Training for Unemployment, comes at a time when India grapples with high youth unemployment rates. By modernizing ITIs, the government seeks to bridge the gap between education and employability. Under PM-Setu, these institutes will receive cutting-edge machinery, digital labs, and updated curricula developed in collaboration with leading industries.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while announcing the scheme, emphasized its role in empowering the youth. ‘Our young generation is our biggest asset. PM-Setu will not just train them but transform them into skilled professionals ready for global opportunities,’ he stated during the virtual launch event attended by thousands of students and educators.
The rollout plan is comprehensive. Over the next three years, 1,000 ITIs will be upgraded in phases, starting with 300 in the current fiscal year. Funding of over Rs 5,000 crore has been allocated, with contributions from both central and state governments. Each upgraded ITI will feature smart classrooms, AI-enabled training modules, and industry-specific workshops for trades like electric vehicles, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.
Industry leaders have welcomed the move. ‘This is a game-changer for the manufacturing sector,’ said the president of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). Partnerships with giants like Tata, Reliance, and Bosch will ensure that training programs meet real-world needs, including soft skills and entrepreneurship development.
For students, the benefits are tangible. Admission processes will be streamlined with online portals, scholarships for meritorious candidates, and guaranteed placement drives. Early reports from pilot ITIs show a 40% increase in placement rates, hinting at the scheme’s potential impact.
As India aims for a $5 trillion economy, initiatives like PM-Setu are crucial. By skilling millions, the government is not only addressing unemployment but also positioning India as a global hub for skilled labor. The success of this scheme could redefine vocational education, creating a ripple effect across rural and urban economies alike.