By Manjiri Joshi,Mayuresh Ganapatye,News18

Copyright news18

Maharashtra is gearing up for a major skill development push with the launch of the Chief Minister’s Short-Term Job-Oriented Courses programme.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will soon inaugurate the initiative online, marking a significant step in the state’s efforts to prepare its youth for emerging industries and job opportunities.
The scheme, announced by the state’s Department of Skill Development, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, will train 75,000 candidates every year. Beginning October 9, over 2,500 batches will start across 419 government-run Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and 141 government technical schools.
Skill Development Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha, while sharing details, said the programme is designed to equip young people with market-ready skills in a short span of time. “The idea is to provide industry-relevant training and create a pool of skilled manpower. This initiative will also open doors for self-employment, particularly for women and rural youth,” Minister Lodha said while speaking with reporters in Mumbai.
The courses aim to cover both modern and traditional trades. From additive manufacturing, aerospace fitting, electric vehicles and solar energy to drone technology, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and green hydrogen — the programme spans some of the fastest-growing industries. Even unconventional areas like social media influencing and upcoming opportunities around the Kumbh Mela have found space in the curriculum.
In addition, special batches are being planned for women, people with disabilities and candidates from remote regions. For instance, at a private ITI in Latur, differently-abled students will be trained in home appliances, fashion technology and Tally software. Similarly, the ITI for girls in Dadar will introduce a semiconductor technician course, while institutes in Nagpur and Amravati will launch advanced welding and CNC programmes.
To make the courses accessible, the state has capped fees between ₹1,000 and ₹5,000 per month. Twenty-five per cent of seats will be reserved for students already enrolled in ITIs, while the rest will be open to outsiders. Enrolment has been made fully online through the Directorate of Vocational Education and Training’s website (https://admission.dvet.gov.in).
According to Lodha, the government wants to use existing infrastructure effectively. Classes will be conducted beyond regular institute hours to ensure maximum participation. “The demand for skilled workers in new-age industries is growing every day. By offering focused training, we are giving our youth a chance to match industry needs and secure sustainable livelihoods,” he added.
The scheme is being seen as a part of Maharashtra’s broader vision to stay ahead in emerging technologies and industries. With India pushing towards renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and digital innovation, state officials believe these short-term courses could bridge the gap between traditional education and modern job requirements.
For lakhs of young aspirants, this initiative represents more than just training — it is a stepping stone towards employability, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance.