Expansion of IITs and ITI Upgradation
The Government of India has taken steps to enhance technical education through the expansion of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the upgradation of Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs). The Union Cabinet approved these initiatives in May 2025, aiming to improve the quality of vocational education and address the skills gap in the workforce.
New IITs and Their Expansion
The Cabinet has sanctioned ₹11,828.79 crore for the expansion of five new IITs that were established post 2014, located in Tirupati, Palakkad, Bhilai, Jammu, and Dharwad. This funding will be allocated over four years from 2025-26 to 2028-29. The initiative will increase student capacity from 7,111 to 13,687, allowing for an additional 6,576 students across various undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programmes. In addition, the Cabinet sanctioned the creation of 130 new professor-level (level 14 and above) faculty positions across these IITs. The move is expected to generate employment by recruiting faculty, researchers, administrative, and support staff to manage the growing student population and infrastructure.
National Scheme for ITI Upgradation
A national scheme has been introduced for the upgradation of ITIs with an outlay of ₹60,000 crore. This includes a Central share of ₹30,000 crore, a State share of ₹20,000 crore, and an industry share of ₹10,000 crore. The Asian Development Bank and the World Bank will co-finance 50% of the Central share. The scheme aims to upgrade 1,000 government ITIs, aligning their courses with industry needs.
Focus on Vocational Education
The initiative aims to transform ITIs into government-owned, industry-managed institutions. This will create a skilled workforce that meets the demands of various industries, particularly in high-growth sectors like electronics and renewable energy. Over five years, the programme expects to train 20 lakh youth through relevant courses.
Infrastructure and Capacity Enhancement
The scheme includes the establishment of five National Centres of Excellence for Skilling and capacity augmentation of five National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs). These measures will enhance training facilities and improve the quality of vocational education.
Industry Collaboration and Management
A unique aspect of the scheme is its focus on deep industry collaboration. An industry-led Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) model will be adopted for implementation. This aims to ensure that the upgradation of ITIs is aligned with the needs of the local workforce and industry.
Training of Trainers
The initiative will also provide pre-service and in-service training to 50,000 trainers. This will improve the quality of instruction and ensure that trainers are equipped with the latest industry knowledge and skills.
Long-term Vision for Vocational Training
The upgrades to ITIs and IITs are part of India’s broader vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047. By improving vocational education, the government aims to drive economic growth and productivity, positioning India as a global manufacturing and innovation hub.
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