Prime Minister Narendra Modi presided over the National Convocation Ceremony for Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) at Vigyan Bhawan, where he launched two major initiatives aimed at modernising India’s skill development ecosystem. The key highlights included the unveiling of the ₹60,000 crore PM-SETU (Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs) scheme and the inauguration of 1,200 vocational skill labs across the country.
The convocation honoured 46 All India Toppers from ITIs and marked the fourth edition of the Kaushal Deekshant Samaroh (Skill Convocation) — a national platform to celebrate and promote vocational education.
PM-SETU to Modernise 1,000 ITIs Nationwide
The PM-SETU scheme will revamp 1,000 government-run ITIs through a hub-and-spoke model — comprising 200 hub ITIs and 800 connected spoke ITIs. The hubs will feature cutting-edge infrastructure, production units, innovation centres, and dedicated placement services. Meanwhile, spoke ITIs will ensure decentralised access to advanced skill training.
The scheme is designed to align ITI courses with global industry needs, introducing long-term diplomas, executive programs, and special purpose vehicles in collaboration with anchor industry partners.
In its first phase, 15 ITI clusters have been identified across states including Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, among others.
1,200 Vocational Skill Labs for Schools and Tribal Institutions
Alongside ITI reforms, the Prime Minister also inaugurated 1,200 Vocational Skill Labs in 400 Navodaya Vidyalayas and 200 Eklavya Model Residential Schools across 34 States and Union Territories. These labs will provide hands-on learning in 12 high-demand sectors such as IT, Automotive, Agriculture, Electronics, and Tourism.
Each lab is equipped with modern tools and machinery, and 1,200 trained vocational teachers will deliver industry-relevant education in line with CBSE curriculum and the National Education Policy 2020.
‘Workshops of Atmanirbhar Bharat’
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi called ITIs “workshops of an Atmanirbhar Bharat,” underlining their critical role in preparing India’s youth for a future-ready economy. The launch of PM-SETU and the skill labs signals a comprehensive national effort to create a skilled, self-reliant, and globally competitive workforce, especially from rural and tribal areas.