SRINAGAR,October 17, 2026 : Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Chaudhary following the approval of Strategic Investment Plans (SIPs) worth ₹475.41 crore to upgrade key Industrial Training Institute (ITI) clusters across Jammu and Kashmir.
The investment has been approved under the Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs (PM-SETU) scheme, which aims to modernise vocational training infrastructure and strengthen the link between skill development and industry requirements.
₹240 Crore for Jammu ITI Cluster
Under the approved plan, the Jammu ITI Cluster will receive an investment of ₹240 crore.
The cluster will operate under a hub-and-spoke model, with ITI Jammu serving as the hub and the following institutes as spokes:
- ITI R.S. Pura
- ITI Nowshera
- ITI Samba
- ITI Kathua
The investment is intended to upgrade training facilities and improve the quality and relevance of vocational education for students across the cluster.
₹235.41 Crore for Srinagar ITI Cluster
The Srinagar ITI Cluster has been approved an investment of ₹235.41 crore for modernisation.
ITI Srinagar will serve as the hub, supported by the following institutes:
- ITI Ganderbal
- ITI Kangan
- ITI Budgam
- ITI Charar-i-Sharief
Together, the two clusters account for the total approved investment of ₹475.41 crore.
Focus on Modern Training and Industry-Ready Skills
The initiative will follow a hub-and-spoke model designed to modernise training infrastructure, introduce contemporary courses and align curricula with changing industry requirements.
The programme also aims to respond to domestic and global skill demands, helping vocational institutions prepare students for emerging employment opportunities.
CM Omar Abdullah Highlights Youth Employment
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the investment would strengthen industry linkages, promote outcome-based training and equip young people in Jammu and Kashmir with skills suited to the needs of employers.
He emphasised that upgrading ITIs would help transform them into modern skill development hubs, while ensuring vocational education remains responsive to changing economic conditions and new employment opportunities.
A Push for Skill Development Across J&K
The approved plans are expected to strengthen the vocational training ecosystem across the Jammu and Srinagar regions. By modernising facilities and making training more relevant to industry, the initiative aims to improve employability and expand access to better livelihood opportunities for local youth.
The implementation of the approved plans will be important in determining how effectively the investment translates into upgraded facilities, relevant courses and improved employment outcomes.
