New Delhi: The PM-SETU Scheme has received a major boost after the Government of India approved its nationwide rollout across 200 Industrial Training Institute (ITI) clusters. The government will implement the ₹60,000 crore programme to modernise ITIs, improve skill training, and increase employment opportunities for young people across India. The decision was taken during the fourth meeting of the National Steering Committee (NSC) under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).
What is the PM-SETU Scheme
PM-SETU stands for Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs. It is a flagship government programme designed to upgrade Industrial Training Institutes with modern infrastructure, industry-linked training, new technology, and updated courses.
The scheme aims to make ITI students more job-ready by creating strong partnerships between industries and training institutes.
PM-SETU Scheme: Nationwide Rollout Across 200 ITI Clusters
The National Steering Committee approved the transition of PM-SETU from its pilot phase to a nationwide programme.
All 200 identified ITI clusters across India can now begin implementation based on their readiness and support from industry partners. The committee also approved measures to simplify execution, encourage greater participation from industries and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), and strengthen the implementation system.
₹1,237.58 Crore Investment Approved
The committee also cleared Strategic Investment Plans (SIPs) worth ₹1,237.58 crore for upgrading five ITI clusters. The approved projects include:
- Jindal Naveen Avsar Limited as the anchor industry partner in Odisha.
- ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India as the anchor partner in Gujarat.
- Apollo MedSkills and two additional ITI clusters in Telangana.
These projects will help improve infrastructure, training quality, and industry collaboration in the selected ITIs.
Government’s Focus on Industry-Led Skill Development
According to the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, PM-SETU will modernise India’s ITI ecosystem through:
- Better infrastructure
- Future-ready curriculum
- Strong industry partnerships
- Improved employability
- Practical and technology-based training
Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Jayant Chaudhary also encouraged more industries to participate in transforming ITIs into world-class skill training institutions.
What is the Importance of PM-SETU Scheme
India has a large young workforce, and industries increasingly require skilled workers trained in modern technologies.
By upgrading ITIs and involving private industries in training, the government aims to reduce the skill gap, improve employment opportunities, and prepare students for future jobs in manufacturing, healthcare, infrastructure, and other growing sectors.
