The Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs (PM-SETU) programme has achieved a major milestone with the approval of the first-ever Strategic Investment Plan (SIP) for the Visakhapatnam ITI Cluster in Andhra Pradesh. This plan, submitted by ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India) in partnership with the New Age Makers’ Institute of Technology (NAMTECH), which is established as a not-for-profit educational initiative of AM/NS, was cleared by the National Steering Committee, making Andhra Pradesh the first state to operationalise an industry-led ITI transformation under the scheme.
A Rs 60,000 crore flagship initiative of the Government of India, PM-SETU aims to modernise 1,000 government Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) through an industry-led Hub-and-Spoke model. The programme focuses on upgrading infrastructure, fostering deep industry engagement, and creating outcome-oriented institutions that align with evolving workforce needs. By establishing National Centres of Excellence in high-growth sectors, PM-SETU seeks to build a future-ready workforce equipped for advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies.
The approval of the Visakhapatnam Cluster represents the first concrete step in translating PM-SETU’s vision into action. It introduces an Anchor Industry Partner model, where leading companies collaborate with state governments to manage ITIs, ensuring training is aligned with industry standards. This approach is expected to enhance employability, strengthen institutional governance, and improve financial sustainability through Special Purpose Vehicles.
With 32 states and Union Territories already forming State Steering Committees and several initiating industry partnerships, PM-SETU is entering a full-fledged implementation phase. The Visakhapatnam project serves as a model for other states, demonstrating how industry-led governance can transform vocational education. With more Strategic Investment Plans reportedly set to be approved, PM-SETU will reshape India’s skilling ecosystem, driving large-scale ITI transformation and contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
