New Delhi, Oct 4 (NationPress) On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled an array of youth-centric initiatives valued at over Rs 62,000 crore. This move was widely praised by toppers from Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and skill trainers nationwide, who remarked that these new programs will be revolutionary for students and the future workforce of India.

During the Kaushal Deekshant Samaroh in New Delhi, the Prime Minister inaugurated several education, skilling, and entrepreneurship initiatives that significantly enhance youth empowerment.

The event, which was the fourth edition of the National Skill Convocation, was organized under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, in alignment with the Prime Minister's vision of a skilled India.

At this landmark ceremony, PM Modi introduced the PM-SETU (Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs) – a centrally-funded program with a staggering investment of Rs 60,000 crore designed to modernize 1,000 government ITIs across the country using a hub-and-spoke model.

In this model, 200 ITIs will act as hubs while 800 will serve as spokes, thereby creating a cohesive skilling ecosystem.

The Prime Minister honored 46 all-India ITI toppers and exemplary trainees, celebrating their accomplishments in diverse trades and skill sectors. Students from various states expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the government, describing the recognition as a dream come true and a moment of pride for their families.

In an interview with IANS, Simran Mehraj from Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir stated, "The initiatives implemented by Prime Minister Modi for students are a source of pride. Receiving this award from him is an honor for both me and my family. The upgrade of ITIs will provide us with new trainers and equipment, further enhancing our skills."

Another student from Srinagar, Saqib Hameed, remarked, "It is a proud moment for me to receive an award from PM Modi. The new skill labs and schemes will greatly benefit students and open up new opportunities."

From Kolkata, Ritika Shah noted that the investment of Rs 60,000 crore in upgrading ITIs presents a tremendous opportunity for students.

"Youth, particularly those from rural areas, will gain immensely from education and technical training," she added.

Pallavi Shih, another student from Kolkata, emphasized that the new skill labs would represent a significant advancement in technical education and provide relief to economically disadvantaged students.

Mahesh Sunil from Maharashtra shared with IANS, "I received the All India Rank 1 award. PM Modi's scheme will elevate India in the fields of education and skilling. Institutions like NIT Patna will offer great opportunities for the youth."

From Betul in Madhya Pradesh, topper Trisha Tawde expressed, "Being recognized by the Prime Minister is the most significant moment of my life. The PM-SETU scheme will unlock new opportunities for us in both employment and training."

Students from Uttar Pradesh also commended the Prime Minister's initiative, deeming it empowering for the youth.

Aman Kumar from Duddhi mentioned, "This award is a proud moment for me and my family. The Rs 62,000 crore scheme will enable youth to become self-reliant and allow them to acquire new skills."

Manshika Tiwari from Kanpur claimed PM Modi's initiative is essential for advancing women and girls. "Skill-based education will empower women to achieve self-reliance and shape their own futures," she stated.

Preeti Kandu from Deoria expressed, "It is a matter of pride for me to be honored as an All India Topper. Programs like PM-SETU and Skill India send a message to all women and youth that success is attainable through hard work and determination."

Sakshi Charasia from Prayagraj added, "This award is not just mine, but the outcome of my family and teachers' hard work. PM Modi's plan will help young people acquire skills that are competitive on a global scale."