J&K ITIs Empowering Youth with Industry-Ready Skills for Job Opportunities
Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has the potential to become a leading hub for skill development, according to Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha. He emphasized the importance of focusing on academic institutions and Mission Youth in creating opportunities for the youth. The government aims to create an industry that not only imparts skills to the youth but also provides job opportunities.
The Commissioner Secretary of the Skill Development Department, Saurabh Bhagat, revealed that over 12,000 students receive ITI (Industrial Training Institute) degrees annually in J&K. He expressed his pride in the achievement of the toppers from 72 trades offered by ITIs, some of whom come from remote districts and have excelled at the national level. These trades are designed to meet the industry’s requirements and provide industry-ready skills to the students.
To further enhance the industry relevance of ITIs, new courses such as Surya Mitr, Smart City technician courses, and food technology have been introduced. The government is also planning to introduce branches like robotics and artificial intelligence, aiming to produce skilled professionals who are equipped to meet the demands of various industries. This strategic approach is aligned with the increasing investments in Jammu and Kashmir and is expected to contribute significantly to the industrial development of the union territory.
Furthermore, Bhagat emphasized the need to increase the intake capacity of ITIs due to the overwhelming demand for ITI seats. More than 60,000 students competed for the 12,000 available seats, with some trades receiving 50 applications for each seat. The department aims to revise the syllabus, introduce new trades, and ensure that students secure employment as soon as they complete their ITI training.
In addition to these initiatives, the Lieutenant Governor officially launched the Innovation Portal by Jammu and Kashmir Science, Technology, and Innovation Council. This platform will foster innovation and promote scientific advancement in the region. Furthermore, an e-platform for ranking polytechnics in Jammu and Kashmir was introduced to enhance transparency in the evaluation process.
To align with the New Education Policy, a revised curriculum for the 3rd semester was also unveiled by the Lieutenant Governor. This move aims to provide students with updated and relevant education that meets the evolving needs of industries.
The focus on ITIs and skill development in Jammu and Kashmir demonstrates the government’s commitment to empowering the youth and promoting entrepreneurship. By producing industry-ready professionals, the region can tap into its potential and become a top-notch destination for skilled workers. With the expansion of ITI capacity, the government anticipates a brighter future for the youth, where they have the option to pursue diverse career paths and contribute to the industrial growth of J&K.
