Kashmir, October 4, 2025: Addressing the grand Skill Convocation Ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi emphasised skill development and youth empowerment, stating that the ITI network is being strengthened to prepare the youth for future challenges. During the event, PM Modi launched youth-centric initiatives worth over ₹62,000 crore, aimed at boosting education, skilling, and entrepreneurship.In his address, PM Modi highlighted the progress of Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), saying, “By 2014, our country had 10,000 ITIs, but in the last decade, around 5,000 new ITIs have been established. The ITI networkis being prepared to meet the skill demands of industry today and a decade from now.” He added that this ceremony will pave a new path for the nation’s youth, fostering opportunities for employment and self-employment.The fourth edition of the National Skill Convocation Ceremony saw PM Modi honoring 46 All India Toppersfrom ITIs. At the suggestion of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, the event was transformed into a mega-festival, connecting lakhs of ITI students online. PM Modi also discussed the transformation of education and skill development in Bihar, which has risen to new heights from years of neglect.
Key Announcements:
₹62,000 Crore Initiatives for YouthDuring the Skill Convocation Ceremony, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several youth-centric initiatives to drive skill development. These include:
- PM-SETU (Prime Minister Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITI): A ₹60,000 crore centrally sponsored scheme to upgrade 1,000 government ITIs across the country. This includes 200 hub ITIs and 800 spoke ITIs, equipped with market-oriented trades, digital learning, and incubation facilities in collaboration with anchor industry partners.
- 1,200 Vocational Skill Labs: To be established in 400 Navodaya Vidyalayas and 200 Eklavya Model Residential Schools, these labs will provide hands-on training in 12 high-demand sectors like IT, automotive, agriculture, electronics, logistics, and tourism, especially for students in remote and tribal areas.
- Skill University in Bihar: Named after Bharat Ratna Jannayak Karpoori Thakur, this university will promote skill development. PM Modi noted that Karpoori Thakur dedicated his life to public service and education expansion, particularly for marginalized communities.
- ₹1,000 Monthly Allowance for 5 Lakh Graduates: This scheme aims to provide financial support to promote employment and self-employment.
Additionally, Union Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Chaudhary described the ceremony as a historic moment, stating that the Skill India movement, launched by PM Modi 11 years ago, has given entrepreneurship a new identity.
Revolution in Skill Development: A Decade of Achievements
PM Modi highlighted the journey of skill development, noting that the ITI network is being aligned with Industry 4.0 demands. Through the hub-and-spoke model, these institutes will focus on future-ready skillssuch as digital learning, innovation, and sustainable development. This initiative will not only create job opportunities but also contribute to realizing the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).The Skill Convocation Ceremony inspired enthusiasm among the youth, with students from across the country applauding the Prime Minister’s vision. The event marked a milestone in the Skill India Mission, reinforcing the commitment to youth empowerment.
