In a transformative step toward boosting vocational education and industry readiness, the Maharashtra State Cabinet on Tuesday approved a new Public-Private Partnership (PPP) policy aimed at upgrading Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across the state. Developed by the Department of Skill Development, Employment, and Entrepreneurship, the policy is expected to benefit nearly 2 lakh students by modernizing infrastructure, curriculum, and training opportunities.
Announcing the Cabinet’s approval, Skill Development Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha stated at Mantralaya that the policy will make Maharashtra’s ITIs globally competitive and future-ready. “Our goal is to produce a workforce aligned with global industrial needs through high-tech training, employment-focused curriculum, and hands-on industry exposure,” Lodha said. Additional Chief Secretary Manisha Verma was also present at the announcement.
While government ITIs have historically played a crucial role in providing skilled manpower to Maharashtra’s industrial sector, many now face outdated infrastructure, obsolete curricula, and funding constraints. The new PPP policy aims to overcome these challenges by leveraging private sector expertise, technology, and investment under a structured collaboration model.
Key Features of the PPP Policy:
Private Investment and Partnership Models: Corporates and philanthropic organizations can partner with ITIs for 10 years (with a minimum ₹10 crore investment) or 20 years (with ₹20 crore investment). Contributions will be encouraged under CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) initiatives.
Curriculum and Training Upgrades: Courses in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, robotics, green energy, additive manufacturing, IoT, and more will be introduced to keep pace with evolving industry demands.
MITRA as Implementation Partner: The Maharashtra Institute for Transformation (MITRA) will oversee strategic planning and execution.
Infrastructure Modernization: Industry partners can renovate facilities, establish digital learning labs, and build smart classrooms without following traditional government procurement processes.
Job-Oriented Training: Joint certification programs will be offered in collaboration with industry partners, affiliated with NCVET, MSBSVET, and the Ratan Tata Maharashtra State Skill Development Society. On-campus Job Placement Cells will assist students with employment opportunities.
Special Focus on Women: The initiative includes provisions to boost female participation in technical training through company-led outreach and incentive programs.
Rural Inclusion and Viability Gap Funding: In rural areas, where private investment may be less feasible, a Viability Gap Funding (VGF) model will be adopted.
Implementation Framework:
In the first phase, 25 ITIs will be included, with 100 more to follow after reviewing initial outcomes.
ITIs will remain government-owned, including land, buildings, and all equipment procured under the program.
Each ITI will have an Institute Management Committee (IMC) chaired by the industry partner, while a government official or ITI head will serve as secretary.
A State Steering Committee will oversee implementation, resolve disputes, and ensure accountability.
Oversight and Governance:
The policy ensures that while industry partners can contribute to training and infrastructure, they will not be allowed to operate private offices or conduct non-training-related activities within ITI premises. All branding will be regulated and require government approval. If a partner underperforms or breaches policy guidelines, the Steering Committee reserves the right to terminate the partnership.
Transforming Skill Development in Maharashtra:
This policy marks a significant shift in Maharashtra’s approach to vocational education, aiming to transform traditional ITIs into modern, industry-aligned Centers of Excellence. Through these reforms, the state aims to enhance employability, support economic development, and position itself as a national and global leader in skill development.
