FICCI, FRSN Launch Nationwide Framework to Assess and Strengthen Industrial Training Institutes

The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and the Future Right Skills Network (FRSN) have launched a grading framework to evaluate and reform Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across India.

Titled “The State of India’s ITIs: A Grading Framework for Readiness and Reform,” the blueprint is designed to assess how well ITIs are preparing students for future employment.

It comes in parallel with the government’s ₹60,000 crore ITI Upgrade Scheme, which aims to modernize government-run ITIs and establish National Centres of Excellence.

Developed in consultation with industry leaders and government officials, the framework focuses on improving institutional performance, strengthening data systems, and aligning training with industry needs.

It reflects the vision outlined in Parliament by Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Chaudhary and was officially launched by him during the FICCI Global Skills Summit 2025.

The framework assesses ITIs across three key areas, youth readiness and skills, ITI–industry engagement, and institutional functioning, using inputs from students, alumni, employers, administrators, and institutional records to create a comprehensive performance overview.

It builds on the Directorate General of Training’s Data-Driven Grading Methodology but offers sharper insights for actionable improvements.

“India’s ITIs are the backbone of our technical training system, yet their true potential is realised only when they are empowered, industry-connected, and outcome-focused. This framework is a step towards building that enabling environment—where data informs decisions, and decisions create impact,” said Jyoti Vij, Director General, FICCI.

Aakash Sethi, CEO of Quest Alliance, said, “This is more than creating a grading framework. It is about reimagining how we see the health of ITIs through the lens of industry readiness and future skills... Our aspiration is a system where data drives learning and continuous improvement, where progress is not only expected but also celebrated and incentivised.”

Intended as a national benchmarking tool, the framework aims to guide investments, promote reforms, and build a responsive, data-driven vocational education system, reaffirming the role of ITIs in preparing youth for the changing job market.