Surat, Gujarat | — In a significant boost to India’s skill development ecosystem, the Government of India has approved the Surat ITI Cluster under the PM-SETU (Pradhan Mantri Skill Education and Training for the Underprivileged) initiative. The ambitious project, backed by a ₹240 crore investment, aims to transform Industrial Training Institute (ITI), Surat into a world-class Centre of Excellence focused on industry-ready skills and emerging technologies.
The announcement was made by Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education, during his visit to ITI Surat on Friday.
Industry-Led Partnership
The project will be implemented through a strong collaboration between leading industry and academic partners:
- Anchor Partner: ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India)
- Academic Partner: NAMTECH
- Total Investment: ₹240 Crore
- Implementation Model: Hub-and-Spoke
- Primary Goal: Develop ITI Surat into an advanced Centre of Excellence offering industry-aligned technical education.
Modern Infrastructure and Advanced Training
As part of the initiative, the institute will receive state-of-the-art laboratories, modern infrastructure, and specialized training programs focused on advanced manufacturing, steel technologies, and other emerging industrial sectors.
The project will also create 3,528 additional training seats, significantly expanding the institute’s capacity to prepare skilled professionals for India’s growing industrial economy.
25,000 Trainees to Benefit
Officials estimate that approximately 25,000 trainees will receive industry-focused education and hands-on technical training over the next five years. The curriculum will be designed to match current and future workforce requirements, improving employment opportunities for students while supporting India’s expanding manufacturing sector.
Supporting India’s Future Workforce
The PM-SETU initiative is designed to bridge the gap between education and employment by aligning vocational training with real-world industry demands. Through partnerships with major companies such as AM/NS India, the program ensures students gain practical skills that meet evolving technological and industrial needs.
During the announcement, Shri Jayant Chaudhary reiterated the government’s commitment to building a future-ready workforce capable of driving economic growth, innovation, and the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).
The approval of the Surat ITI Cluster marks another important milestone in India’s efforts to modernize vocational education, strengthen industry-academia collaboration, and equip young professionals with the skills required for the jobs of tomorrow.
