In a significant step toward strengthening vocational education in India, the Directorate General of Training (DGT) under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India, has introduced a mandatory provision of 150 hours of On-the-Job Training (OJT) or Group Project for trainees enrolled in Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) under the Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS).
The reform, which came into effect from the academic session 2022–23, aims to enhance the employability of ITI graduates by ensuring that trainees gain practical exposure to real industrial environments alongside classroom training.
This initiative aligns with the vision of industry-integrated training under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes experiential learning and stronger collaboration between education institutions and industry.
Why the 150 hours of OJT for ITIs was introduced
Traditionally, ITI trainees received most of their training using tools and equipment available within the campus workshops. While this approach provided foundational skills, it often limited students’ exposure to modern technologies used in industries.
As industries rapidly adopt advanced technologies, automation, and modern production systems, it has become increasingly important for trainees to gain real-world experience during their training period.
Recognizing this need, the DGT has restructured the Craftsmen Training Scheme qualifications by:
- Reducing the annual training duration from 1600 hours to 1200 hours
- Introducing 150 hours of mandatory On-the-Job Training or a Group Project
- Encouraging deeper collaboration between ITIs and industry partners
This reform ensures that trainees develop practical competencies that align with current industry requirements.
Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education, highlighted the significance of the initiative.
He stated that the mandatory 150 hours of structured On-the-Job Training or Group Project represents a major reform aimed at improving the quality and relevance of vocational education in India.
According to the minister, classroom learning alone is no longer sufficient in today’s fast-evolving industrial environment. Real workplace exposure helps trainees build:
- Practical competence
- Professional confidence
- Industry-ready skills
He further emphasized that the government’s objective is not merely to provide certificates but to equip youth with skills aligned to real industry needs.
Key objectives of mandatory OJT in ITIs
The primary objective of introducing OJT or Group Project work is to enhance the employability of ITI trainees by bridging the gap between training institutions and industry.
Key objectives include:
1. Industry-Relevant Skill Development: Providing trainees with hands-on experience in real industrial settings.
2. Strengthening Industry–Institution Linkages: Encouraging collaboration between ITIs and industries to keep training programs aligned with current technological developments.
3. Improving Workforce Readiness: Helping trainees transition smoothly into professional work environments.
4. Continuous Skill Assessment: Evaluating trainees based on real work performance rather than only theoretical knowledge.
How the OJT or group project will be implemented
Under the new guidelines, every trainee enrolled under the Craftsmen Training Scheme must complete either On-the-Job Training or a Group Project related to their trade.
Key implementation guidelines
- Trainees become eligible for OJT after completing a minimum of three months of ITI training.
- Training will take place under the supervision of industry mentors or trainers.
- Trainees must maintain a logbook documenting daily activities and skills learned.
- Performance will be evaluated through:
- Mentor assessment
- Trainer evaluation
- Logbook review
- Viva during the final practical examination
The grade obtained through this assessment will be reflected in the trainee’s marksheet, and upon successful completion, an industry-approved certificate will be issued by the ITI.
Safety and support measures for trainees
To ensure trainee safety and smooth implementation of OJT, state directorates may introduce several support measures, including:
- Accidental group insurance coverage
- Travel and accommodation arrangements for trainees placed in distant industries
- Institutional support for monitoring OJT activities
These measures aim to make industry exposure safe, structured, and beneficial for trainees.
Integration with ITI grading and evaluation
The OJT component will also become an important parameter in the Data Driven Grading Methodology (DDGM) used to evaluate ITIs in the future.
For trainees enrolled under the Dual System of Training (DST) mode, mandatory project work will replace OJT because these trainees already receive substantial industry training as part of their program.
Implementation responsibility across the skill ecosystem
The Directorate General of Training has directed all stakeholders across the skill ecosystem to ensure effective implementation of the reform.
These include:
- State and Union Territory Skill Development Departments
- National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs)
- Regional Directorates of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (RDSDEs)
These bodies will identify suitable industries and ensure that trainees receive quality On-the-Job Training opportunities.
Strengthening the ITI ecosystem under Skill India
The introduction of mandatory OJT marks an important step toward strengthening India’s skill development ecosystem.
By promoting industry-integrated learning, the reform supports the broader objectives of the Skill India Mission, which seeks to make youth:
- Industry-ready
- Self-reliant
- Prepared for sustainable employment
The introduction of mandatory 150 hours of On-the-Job Training (OJT) or a Group Project for ITI trainees marks an important step toward strengthening India’s vocational education ecosystem. By integrating real industry exposure into the training framework, this reform aims to bridge the gap between classroom learning and workplace requirements.
As industries continue to evolve with new technologies and production practices, such initiatives will help ensure that trainees graduate with practical skills, industry awareness, and greater employability. Strengthening collaboration between ITIs and industry partners will also play a key role in keeping training programs aligned with emerging workforce needs.
Overall, this reform reinforces the broader vision of industry-integrated skill development under the Skill India Mission and the National Education Policy 2020, preparing youth to become job-ready professionals and contributing to a more skilled and future-ready workforce.
