In a major push towards decentralised and outcome-oriented skill development, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) organised the Kaushal Manthan Regional Workshop at Kanha Shanti Vanam, Hyderabad. During the workshop, MSDE announced the establishment of two new Skill Centres at NSTIs in Hyderabad and Chennai. These Centres of Excellence (CoEs), part of a broader five-centre national initiative, aim to enhance high-quality instructor training and meet the evolving skilling needs of emerging sectors.
The workshop served as a collaborative platform for key policymakers, state ministers, and senior officials from the southern region to align skilling efforts with local economic priorities, the aspirations of India’s youth, and the long-term vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, underscored the need to move beyond a uniform model of skill development. Stressing that “skill development cannot have prescriptive templates,” the Minister called for state-specific, adaptive models that align with local economic priorities and youth aspirations.
“We must empower states to craft solutions that are rooted in their local economic contexts. Only then can we ensure meaningful outcomes and long-term transformation,” Shri Jayant Chaudhary asserted.
Key announcements and highlights
Establishment of centres of excellence (CoEs)
Underscoring this vision, the Minister announced the establishment of two new Centres of Excellence, out of a proposed five at National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) in Hyderabad and Chennai. These CoEs will serve as national hubs for advanced instructor training and emerging skilling domains, boosting instructional quality and industry alignment.
National skill gap study by NCAER launched
As part of MSDE’s SANKALP initiative, the National Skill Gap Study conducted by the National Council for Applied Economic Research (NCAER) was officially launched. The study provides a dynamic framework for assessing skill demand at sectoral and state levels, with detailed analysis across seven high-growth sectors. This initiative is expected to inform data-driven and demand-responsive skilling strategies.
Strengthening instructional quality and faculty development
To institutionalize excellence, the Minister stressed the need for mandatory CITS certification (Craft Instructor Training Scheme) for all newly recruited ITI instructors. He urged states to revise Recruitment Rules (RR) in line with NCVT norms, ensuring standardised instruction across the country.
Additional proposals included:
- Faculty development through improved institutional capacity, better remuneration, and pedagogical rigor
- A grading and performance assessment framework for state-run ITIs
- Localised skill planning through district-level coordination and skill gap assessments
Launch of Rural Biochar Entrepreneurship Program
During his visit to the Biochar Centre of Excellence at Kanha Shanti Vanam, the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship also inaugurated a Rural Entrepreneurship Training Program on biochar. This unique initiative will train rural youth in the biochar value chain, from biomass processing to carbon credit monetisation. Each biochar unit is expected to create 4–8 seasonal jobs and become self-sustaining by the second year.
The Minister highlighted the potential for government-backed capital support to scale such green, regenerative livelihood models.
Progress under key Schemes in the region
Since 2015, the region has seen significant skilling activity:
- 27.8 lakh candidates trained under PMKVY
- Over 4.85 lakh beneficiaries (85% women) trained via Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS)
- 10 lakh+ apprentices engaged under NAPS since FY 2018–19, with ₹215 crore disbursed via DBT
Perspectives from southern States and UTs
Leaders from various southern states and union territories shared their region-specific approaches and progress in skilling, highlighting how infrastructure, industry needs, and global mobility are shaping local strategies. From building capacities in logistics, ports, and hospitality to preparing youth for international job markets through foreign language training and placement programs, the common focus was on making skill development relevant, inclusive, and future-ready.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Shri D.K. Joshi, Lt. Governor highlighted stating, “Projects like the International Container Terminal and Greenfield airports are transforming the islands into a maritime hub, creating scope for skilling in logistics, tourism, and marine entrepreneurship.”
Karnataka
Dr. Sharanprakash R. Patil, Minister for Medical Education and Skill Development stated that, “With 270 ITIs and international placement programs in sectors like nursing and foreign languages, Karnataka is preparing youth for global careers.”
Kerala
Shri V. Sivankutty, Minister for Education and Labour and Skills, highlighted the state’s focus on industry-relevant skilling. He noted that Kerala is focused on ensuring quality training aligned with industry demands. This is being achieved through national schemes like PMKVY and SANKALP, along with support from state institutions such as the Kerala Academy for Skills Excellence, especially in the ports and logistics sectors.
Also read: Green Skills and EV Training Program Launched by DGT and Shell India
Looking ahead: Viksit Bharat @2047
The workshop aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, emphasizing:
- Upgradation of ITIs
- Operationalising CoEs
- Integrating Skill India Digital Hub
- Promoting apprenticeship
- Linking education, skilling, and entrepreneurship
With participation from over 120 senior officials, the workshop saw active involvement from ministers, secretaries, and directors representing southern states and union territories. It reflected a shared commitment to advancing regional empowerment through skill development.
