Maharashtra launches new policy to revamp ITIs into global skill hubs

In a significant policy move on May 13, the Maharashtra government approved a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework to overhaul Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and develop them into globally competitive centers of excellence.

The new policy is designed to provide students with advanced skills aligned with global industry standards and boost their employability prospects, according to Skill Development Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha.

Describing the decision as a "historic step," Lodha said it would position Maharashtra as a global frontrunner in skill development.

"This partnership will not only create employment opportunities but also contribute significantly to the economic growth of the state. Maharashtra is poised to become a global model for industry-aligned vocational training," he said.

The Maharashtra Institute for Transformation has been designated as the strategic partner for executing the policy.

"The new policy envisions modernizing ITIs through private sector collaboration in curriculum development, infrastructure upgrades, and provision of advanced training technologies,” Lodha said.

“It encourages leading corporations, industrial associations, and philanthropists to partner with the government, invest in training facilities, and participate through their corporate social responsibility initiatives,” Lodha added.

He added that the initiative will benefit over two lakh ITI students by introducing globally relevant training programs and connecting them with international job markets.

While ITIs have played a central role in vocational education in Maharashtra, Lodha acknowledged they face issues such as obsolete infrastructure, limited resources, and inconsistent training standards.

"While ITIs have long been a vital part of the state as the vocational education system, they now face challenges such as outdated infrastructure, limited finances, and gaps in training quality. To address these issues and meet the future demand for a highly skilled workforce, it is essential to revive these institutes through a forward-looking PPP model," he said.

The policy permits private partners to fund infrastructure, training equipment, and course delivery, bypassing usual government procurement hurdles.

However, the government will retain ownership of land and buildings, and current staff, including instructors, will not be displaced. Industry partners may bring in additional faculty for new courses.

The initial phase will cover 25 ITIs, with plans to expand the model to 100 institutes after reviewing the outcomes of the pilot projects.

"The policy also proposes setting up Centers of Excellence based on regional industrial strengths, for instance, automotive-related training in Pune and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar,” he said.

“Training will focus on emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, additive manufacturing, the Internet of Things, robotics, and green energy. Emphasis will be placed on practical, hands-on learning aligned with industry requirements," the minister added.

Each participating ITI will have an Institute Management Committee, led by a private partner and co-chaired by either the ITI principal or a designated government official.

To maintain transparency and public ownership, industry partners will not be allowed to use ITI premises for unrelated activities, and all developed infrastructure will remain government property. While naming rights will not be granted, limited branding may be allowed with official consent.

"Job placement cells will be established within ITIs under the PPP model, with direct involvement from companies in recruitment and career guidance. Start-up incubation support and employment fairs will also be organized,” he said.

“The policy further seeks to enhance female participation, with companies expected to design specific initiatives for women," Lodha added.