How is Maharashtra Modernising Six ITIs?

Mumbai, July 8 (NationPress) A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formalised on Tuesday between the Skill Development Department, Ports Department, and Atal Solutions Pvt Ltd to develop a skilled workforce for the ports and logistics industry.

International credit institutions (ECA) from the Netherlands, Denmark, and Poland are set to invest Rs 120 crore as part of this MoU.

The initial phase will modernise six selected ITIs located in Mumbai, Pune, Baramati, Sindhudurg, Nagpur, and Nashik. This initiative seeks to train approximately 5,000 to 7,000 students annually, equipping them with world-class skills and enhancing employment prospects, as stated by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who attended the signing event.

The Chief Minister noted that substantial employment opportunities will emerge from projects like Vadhavan Port. This MoU aims to cultivate skilled manpower, thereby generating significant job openings for the youth.

Furthermore, he indicated that through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models, Maharashtra has already established a commendable reputation in the skill development arena.

“This MoU will not only benefit Vadhavan but will also foster job opportunities throughout the state. Maharashtra is poised to gain international recognition in port-related skill development,” he added.

Minister of Skill Development, Mangal Prabhat Lodha, mentioned that ITIs will be pivotal in creating skilled professionals for the maritime and port management industries.

“Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) serve as the backbone of India’s skill enhancement framework, providing vocational training to enhance youth employability. Acknowledging the growing need for skilled professionals in maritime transport and port management, ITIs in Maharashtra are preparing to address these sectors. The Skill Development Department's goal is to transform ITIs into world-class skill training centers under the PPP model. This MoU aligns with the National Education Policy 2020, Skill India Mission, Maharashtra ITI Modernisation Policy 2025, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This initiative will enable ITIs to offer modern, employment-focused training,” stated Minister Lodha.

Fisheries and Ports Minister Nitesh Rane highlighted the increasing demand for skilled labor in the ports and logistics sectors. He pointed out that future-ready skilled personnel are being developed for JNPT, Vadhavan, and other port authorities, concentrating on maritime transport and port management. This collaboration is expected to significantly enhance state development by creating employment opportunities via skill development.

“The project aims to solidify Maharashtra as a hub for high-quality skill development by modernising ITIs and introducing employment-oriented, updated curricula. The initial phase encompasses ITIs in Mumbai, Pune, Baramati, Sindhudurg, Nagpur, and Nashik, in line with the state’s maritime vision. The modernisation will feature advanced simulation labs, specialised maritime transport courses, integration of international curricula, training by global professionals, and certification programs. This MoU is set to establish India’s first export-capable vocational training model, which may serve as a template for other states,” according to the government release.

This initiative will adopt an ECA-based financial model, requiring an investment of 12 million euros. The Rural Enhancer Group of India will carry out the project, with financial backing from JNPT and the Maharashtra Maritime Board.

The project includes 98 percent political and 95 percent financial risk insurance coverage under the ECA framework. It is a social impact initiative that will be crucial for future port-related skill development and job creation, according to the government release.