1096 ITIs to be upgraded before 2012

New Delhi, Oct 3 (UNI) The Centre today gave its approval for implementation of a scheme for the upgradation of the remaining 1096 government ITIs (Industrial Training Institutes) through Public-Private Partnership at a total cost of Rs 2,800 crore during 2008-09 to 2011-12.

A meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, discussed the details of the scheme and gave its clearance.

The scheme would ensure upgradation of 1096 select ITIs by involving the industry partner in all aspects of training from development of curriculum to trade testing, Finance Minister P Chidambaram told mediapersons.

He said academic and financial autonomy given to the ITIs would improve their internal and external efficiency.

"The demand driven and improved quality of training will lead to better employability of ITI graduates," Mr Chidambaram said.

UNI SH RP GC1510