PM-SETU Scheme
Syllabus: Government Schemes (UPSC Prelims)
Source: News On Air
Context
The Prime Minister recently launched the PM-SETU (Prime Minister’s Scheme for Empowerment through Technology Upgradation) — a major initiative to modernize India’s Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and strengthen the country’s skill development ecosystem.
About the Scheme
PM-SETU is a centrally sponsored flagship programme that seeks to transform vocational training in India by aligning it with global industrial standards.
It follows a “Government-owned, Industry-managed” approach to make India’s workforce globally competitive.
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE)
Objectives of PM-SETU
- Upgrade 1,000 Government ITIs across India with modern infrastructure and industry-aligned curricula.
- Bridge the gap between traditional training and global employability, preparing youth for emerging job markets.
- Foster an innovation-driven, skill-oriented economy under Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Key Features
- Hub-and-Spoke Model
- 200 ITIs will act as Hubs, each linked to 4 Spokes (total 800).
- Hubs will handle training of trainers, R&D, and start-up incubation.
- Modern Infrastructure
- Smart classrooms, digital labs, advanced machinery, and innovation centres to modernize learning.
- Industry Partnership
- Collaboration with industry bodies like CII, FICCI, and local associations for training, placement, and production units.
- Sectoral Coverage
- Focus areas include manufacturing, agriculture, hospitality, and new-age technologies such as AI and robotics.
- Funding Pattern
- Total outlay: ₹60,000 crore (2025–28), jointly financed by the Centre and States.
Significance of PM-SETU
- Global Employability: Enhances job readiness of India’s youth for international industries and supply chains.
- Skilling Revolution: Strengthens India’s ITI network and builds a future-ready, digitally skilled workforce.
- Support to MSMEs: Supplies skilled manpower to local industries, promoting Atmanirbhar Bharat and inclusive growth.
- Economic Impact: Boosts productivity, innovation, and competitiveness in India’s industrial ecosystem.
Conclusion
The PM-SETU Scheme marks a major shift in India’s skilling strategy — from traditional training to industry-integrated, technology-driven learning. By linking education, industry, and innovation, it aims to empower India’s youth and position the country as a global hub of skilled talent.
