Mumbai: Union Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Jayant Chaudhary, inaugurated the newly renovated National Skill Training Institute (NSTI) in Sion, Mumbai, today. Joining him was Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Minister for Skills, Entrepreneurship, Employment, and Innovation, Government of Maharashtra.
During the inauguration, Chaudhary expressed his pride in revitalizing the 60-year-old institution, which now boasts a modernized building. “It is a moment of great happiness that this prestigious institution has a new infrastructure. Our partners from Tata are here today, and the Indian Institute of Skills is also being developed on the same premises,” he noted.
Highlighting the importance of skilling in India, the Minister referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emphasis on the sector, stating, “The Prime Minister spoke enthusiastically about skilling, and it has given this sector renewed energy. We must make skilling aspirational. Students should see vocational courses and short-term ITI courses as valuable alternatives to traditional degrees. The National Credit Framework allows students to combine academic and internship credits, creating more opportunities for skill development.”
Chaudhary also discussed the current skilling infrastructure, specifically in Maharashtra, where over 1,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) operate, making up 66% of the country’s ITIs. He emphasized the need to reform these institutes, upgrade infrastructure, and train instructors to meet industry standards.
Recognizing the vital role of industry in skilling, the Minister stated, “Maharashtra, as the financial capital, must continue to develop its skilled workforce. Our industry partners are actively investing in the sector through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and this collaboration is crucial for India to compete globally. Together, we can achieve our goal of making India a developed country by 2047.”
On the occasion, several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed between NSTI and leading institutions such as Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Directorate of Vocational Education & Training (DVET), and multiple state departments. These agreements will enhance NSTI Mumbai’s leadership in skill-based education and further its specialized training programs.
The Minister also inaugurated the renovated Motor Mechanic Vehicle and Welder sections at NSTI and interacted with trainees at the TATA-IIS Labs. Mangal Prabhat Lodha accompanied him in touring the facilities.