In May 2025, the Union Cabinet approved significant initiatives to enhance technical education in India through the expansion of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the upgradation of Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs). These measures, vital for competitive exam aspirants, aim to bridge the skills gap and position India as a global manufacturing and innovation hub by 2047.
Expansion of New IITs
Funding and Student Capacity
The Cabinet allocated ₹11,828.79 crore for the expansion of five new IITs established post-2014 in Tirupati, Palakkad, Bhilai, Jammu, and Dharwad. This funding, spread over 2025-26 to 2028-29, will increase student capacity from 7,111 to 13,687, accommodating an additional 6,576 students across undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programmes.
Faculty and Employment
The initiative includes the creation of 130 new professor-level faculty positions, alongside opportunities for researchers, administrative, and support staff, fostering employment and academic growth.
National Scheme for ITI Upgradation
Financial Framework
A ₹60,000 crore scheme has been introduced to upgrade 1,000 government ITIs, with contributions of ₹30,000 crore from the Centre, ₹20,000 crore from states, and ₹10,000 crore from industry. The Asian Development Bank and World Bank will co-finance 50% of the Central share.
Industry-Aligned Training
The scheme aims to align ITI courses with industry needs, particularly in high-growth sectors like electronics and renewable energy, training 20 lakh youth over five years.
Focus on Vocational Education
Industry-Managed ITIs
ITIs will transition into government-owned, industry-managed institutions to produce a skilled workforce tailored to industry demands, enhancing employability and productivity.
Infrastructure and Capacity Building
National Centres of Excellence
The scheme includes establishing five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling and augmenting five National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) to improve training facilities and vocational education quality.
Industry Collaboration
Special Purpose Vehicle Model
An industry-led Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) model will ensure ITI upgradation aligns with local workforce and industry needs, fostering deep collaboration between government and private sectors.
Training of Trainers
Enhancing Instructional Quality
The initiative will provide pre-service and in-service training to 50,000 trainers, equipping them with updated industry knowledge to deliver high-quality instruction.
Long-Term Vision
India as a Global Hub
The upgrades to IITs and ITIs align with India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047. By enhancing technical and vocational education, the government aims to drive economic growth and establish India as a global leader in manufacturing and innovation.
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