Maharashtra to modernise ITIs with advanced labs and Bengaluru-based training programme

MUMBAI, DHNS: The Maharashtra government will establish advanced laboratories in 20 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across the state to modernise technical education, generate employment, and support differently-abled students, which includes a training programme in Bengaluru.

The Department of Skill, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation signed three key Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with social sector partners in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

The agreements were signed with the Shri Shri Rural Development Program Trust (Bengaluru), Schneider Electric India Foundation (Bengaluru), DeAsra Foundation (Pune), and Project Mumbai (Andheri, Mumbai).

These collaborations aim to enhance vocational training, support micro and small entrepreneurs through capacity-building workshops, and offer inclusive education programmes.

Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, Skill Development Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik, Additional Chief Secretary Manisha Verma, and other senior officials attended the MoU ceremony held after the state cabinet meeting at Mantralaya.

According to officials, a tripartite agreement between the Shri Shri Rural Development Trust, Schneider Electric India Foundation, and the Directorate of Vocational Education & Training was signed to upskill youth with modern industrial training.

Over the next three years, electrical workshops at 20 ITIs will be upgraded; solar technician and industrial automation labs will also be established.

“The selected trainees from the electrician trade will receive 15-day free training on advanced technologies and soft skills in Bengaluru,” the officials said.

A phased training plan aims to benefit 9,750 youth over four years across the Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Nashik, Amravati, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar divisions.

The Maharashtra Innovation Society signed an MoU with the DeAsra Foundation to train and mentor 5,000 micro and small entrepreneurs across districts.

An MoU with Project Mumbai focuses on skill development for differently-abled ITI students, including an Indian Sign Language-based curriculum and on-the-job training opportunities.