Patna: In a major push towards skill development and employment generation, the Bihar government has approved the transformation of 75 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) into advanced skill training centres. The decision was taken in the state cabinet meeting held in Patna, aiming to align vocational education with modern industry demands.
Focus on Modern Courses Like AI, Semiconductors and Retail Skills
Under the PM-SETU (Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs) scheme, students will be trained in high-demand sectors such as:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Semiconductor technology
- Sales and retail management
- Textile and garment technology
- Other emerging industry-oriented courses
The initiative is designed to make students job-ready immediately after completing training.
Large-Scale Skill Development Target
The programme aims to skill around 70,000 youth over the next few years. It will be implemented between financial year 2026-27 and 2029-30, with an estimated total cost of ₹3,615 crore.
The state government will contribute 33% of the funding, amounting to approximately ₹1,192 crore, while the rest will be supported under the central scheme.
IIT Patna to Be Developed as Research and Innovation Park
A major highlight of the cabinet decision is the development of IIT Patna into a world-class Research Park and Innovation Hub.
The project will be developed at a cost of ₹480.71 crore, with the state government providing the entire amount as a grant. An additional 11 acres of land will be allocated for expansion.
Key Focus Areas of the Research Park:
- Life sciences and healthcare
- Advanced manufacturing technologies
- Urban development and environment
- Agriculture and data analytics
- Technology innovation and startups
Once completed, the facility is expected to host around 100 companies for long-term research collaboration, generating approximately 10,000 jobs.
Boost to Startups and Semiconductor Ecosystem
The cabinet has also approved the establishment of an Electronics System Design and Manufacturing Incubation Centre at IIT Patna, supported by a ₹25 crore matching grant from the state government.
Key features include:
- Hostel facilities for startup professionals
- Expansion of physical infrastructure
- Deep-tech focused seed funding
- Support for semiconductor startups
Additionally, a seed fund scheme for 80 startups over five years will be launched to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship in the state.
Strengthening Bihar’s Innovation and Employment Ecosystem
The initiatives aim to create a strong ecosystem for:
- Startup growth
- Industrial innovation
- Foreign and domestic investment
- Skilled workforce development
Officials said the combined efforts will help Bihar emerge as a key hub for technology-driven growth and employment generation in the coming years.
