Maharashtra to Invest ₹1,200 Crore in Upgrading ITIs Over Three Years
In a significant step towards strengthening vocational education and promoting youth empowerment, the Maharashtra government has announced a comprehensive plan to upgrade all government-run Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across the state. This ambitious revamp, to be carried out over the next three years, will involve a substantial investment of ₹1,200 crore. Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Maharashtra’s Minister for Skill Development, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, officially revealed the initiative during an event held on Friday in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.
The announcement was made during the unveiling a special coffee table book published by Maharashtra Times, themed on the coronation of the Maratha warrior king, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The book commemorates the 351st anniversary of the historic coronation, showcasing celebrations held at various ITIs and educational institutions across the state.
Comprehensive Upgrades: Infrastructure, Courses, and Equipment
According to Minister Lodha, the planned upgrade will encompass improvements in infrastructure, academics, and workshop facilities. One of the core components of the initiative is the introduction of state-of-the-art machinery in ITI workshops to ensure hands-on training in line with current industry standards. Additionally, each ITI will receive nearly 1,800 square feet of new infrastructure to house the latest machinery and to facilitate the addition of new, high-demand courses.
The curriculum at these institutes will be modernized to include training in emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and drone technology. These changes aim to equip students with the skills necessary for jobs in the fast-evolving tech-driven economy.
Focus on Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Beyond education and training, the state government is also launching measures to promote entrepreneurship among the youth. As part of the state's upcoming Innovation Policy, which is currently being finalized for submission to the state cabinet, Maharashtra plans to offer loans of up to ₹10 lakh to young people who have completed ITI, diploma, or degree programs in engineering, technology, or other relevant fields.
To reduce the financial burden on aspiring entrepreneurs, the government will subsidize 50% of the interest on these loans. The initiative targets reaching at least one crore youth, providing them with the financial support to launch startups or pursue innovative business ideas.
“This financial assistance is not just about supporting startups; it's about cultivating a generation of job creators rather than job seekers,” Minister Lodha emphasized.
A Tribute to Shivaji Maharaj’s Legacy
The announcement was marked by the release of a commemorative coffee table book dedicated to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, published in collaboration with the Directorate of Vocational Education and Training. The book, focusing on the grand celebrations of the 351st anniversary of the Maratha king’s coronation, serves as both a cultural tribute and a motivational tool for Maharashtra’s youth.
“This book is more than a tribute—it symbolizes courage, leadership, and innovation. It will inspire young minds to emulate the visionary spirit of Shivaji Maharaj,” Lodha said.
Policy-Driven Development Strategy
The overhaul of ITIs and the entrepreneurship loan scheme are part of a broader, policy-driven strategy to encourage innovation and self-reliance among Maharashtra’s youth. Minister Lodha confirmed that a comprehensive innovation policy is in the final stages of development and will soon be presented to the state cabinet for approval.
This policy aims to create a robust innovation, research, and enterprise ecosystem by integrating educational reforms with financial and infrastructural support. It is designed to address current employment challenges and prepare the workforce for the future of industry and technology.
Empowering the Next Generation
Through this three-year, ₹1,200 crore transformation project, the Maharashtra government seeks to position its ITIs as modern hubs of vocational excellence. With enhanced infrastructure, cutting-edge curricula, and financial support mechanisms, the initiative reflects a proactive and holistic approach to skilling and empowering the youth.
By infusing traditional values with futuristic vision, and honoring the legacy of leaders like Shivaji Maharaj, the government aims to cultivate a generation grounded in its heritage and equipped to take on the challenges of tomorrow.
This landmark initiative marks a turning point for technical education in Maharashtra and sets the stage for a broader movement towards innovation-led growth and sustainable youth development.
