J&K secures ₹475.41 crore to boost skill development
Srinagar, Oct 17: In a major boost to skill development and youth employability in Jammu and Kashmir, the National Steering Committee (NSC) of the Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs (PM-SETU) scheme has approved investment plans worth ₹475.41 crore for the modernisation and upgradation of 10 Government Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across the Union Territory.
The approval was accorded during the sixth meeting of the National Steering Committee held in New Delhi on October 16, 2026, under the chairpersonship of Debashree Mukherjee, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India.
The significant achievement reflects the strategic direction and continued emphasis on institutional strengthening under the guidance of Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, and the dedicated efforts of Secretary, Skill Development, Kumar Rajeev Ranjan, in advancing the proposal and coordinating efforts to secure this major investment for the Union Territory. The initiative underscores the administration’s commitment to modernising technical education, strengthening vocational training infrastructure and creating enhanced employment opportunities for the youth.
The Chief Minister, Jammu and Kashmir, has also expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for the initiative, recognising the importance of the Union Government’s support in strengthening the skill development ecosystem and expanding opportunities for young people across the Union Territory.
The approved investment comprises ₹240 crore for the Jammu ITI cluster and ₹235.41 crore for the Srinagar ITI cluster. Each cluster will comprise five Government ITIs, with one institution functioning as the hub and four others as associated institutes. The cluster-based model is aimed at modernising training infrastructure, facilitating access to advanced equipment, strengthening practical learning and ensuring closer alignment between vocational education and industry requirements.
The Jammu cluster, with an approved investment of ₹240 crore, will be implemented in partnership with Eagle Infra India Limited. Government ITI Jammu will function as the hub institution, with Government ITIs at R.S. Pura, Nowshera, Samba and Kathua forming the associated network.
Similarly, the Srinagar cluster has secured an investment of ₹235.41 crore, with Inderdeep Infra India Limited as the industry partner. Government ITI Srinagar will serve as the hub institution, supported by Government ITIs at Ganderbal, Kangan, Budgam and Charar-i-Sharief.
The proposed interventions will focus on modernising workshops and training facilities, improving access to contemporary equipment, strengthening hands-on instruction and promoting industry-linked vocational programmes. The initiative is expected to enhance the quality and relevance of technical training while equipping trainees with skills suited to emerging employment opportunities and evolving workforce requirements.
The role of the Department of Skill Development in advancing the investment plans has been significant. Administrative Secretary Kumar Rajeev Ranjan has pursued a focused approach towards strengthening vocational education and improving the capacity of Government ITIs to deliver industry-responsive training. The progress achieved reflects the importance of sustained administrative engagement, effective coordination with the Government of India and collaboration with industry partners in translating policy priorities into tangible outcomes.
The guidance and support of Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo have further reinforced the broader administrative focus on strengthening public institutions, improving service delivery and promoting initiatives that contribute to the economic empowerment of the youth. The approval represents a noteworthy outcome of coordinated efforts towards advancing the technical and vocational education sector in Jammu and Kashmir.
With an investment of ₹475.41 crore, the PM-SETU initiative is expected to provide fresh momentum to the modernisation of Government ITIs, strengthen industry linkages and improve the employability of trainees across the participating districts. The initiative also represents an important step towards building a skilled workforce capable of responding to the changing demands of industry and supporting the Union Territory’s economic growth.
The approval marks a major milestone for Jammu and Kashmir’s skill development sector and reflects the shared commitment of the Union Territory administration and the Government of India to building a modern, industry-oriented and employment-focused vocational training ecosystem for the youth.
