PM-SETU Industry Conclave in Lucknow Focuses on Building India’s Future-Ready Workforce

PM-SETU is emerging as a key platform for strengthening collaboration between the Government, industry and training institutions to create a skilled and future-ready workforce for India’s rapidly evolving economy.

Addressing the PM-SETU Industry Conclave organised by the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship in collaboration with the Government of Uttar Pradesh in Lucknow, the importance of developing industry-oriented skills was highlighted as India expands its ambitions across several advanced sectors.

The conclave focused on the growing need for skilled professionals capable of meeting the requirements of modern industries, particularly in areas such as defence manufacturing, aerospace, electronics, drones, robotics and advanced manufacturing.

PM-SETU Aims to Bridge the Skills Gap

India’s expanding industrial and manufacturing ambitions require a workforce equipped with relevant technical knowledge and practical skills. As emerging technologies reshape industries, the demand for trained professionals is expected to grow across multiple sectors.

The PM-SETU initiative seeks to address this requirement by encouraging stronger partnerships between government institutions, businesses and training organisations.

The programme places industry participation at the centre of efforts to modernise the country’s Industrial Training Institutes, or ITIs. Through closer cooperation with employers and industry experts, training programmes can be aligned more effectively with the changing requirements of the job market.

Government, Industry and Training Institutions to Work Together

A major focus of the PM-SETU Industry Conclave was the creation of a collaborative model involving three key stakeholders — the Government, industry and training institutions.

Under this approach, industry is expected to play a meaningful role in improving vocational education and training. This includes contributing to the modernisation of ITI infrastructure, helping shape relevant curricula and supporting stronger apprenticeship opportunities.

The objective is to ensure that students and trainees receive practical and industry-relevant exposure while developing skills that can improve their prospects for employment and entrepreneurshiITIs

Industry Role in Modernising ITIs

Modernising ITIs is an important component of the PM-SETU vision. As industrial technologies continue to evolve, training infrastructure and learning programmes need to keep pace with changing workplace requirements.

Greater industry involvement can help training institutions understand the technologies, processes and capabilities required by employers. This can also help create a closer connection between classroom-based training and practical workplace experience.

Focus on Apprenticeships and Employment

Another important aspect of the PM-SETU model is strengthening apprenticeships.

Apprenticeships can provide young people with an opportunity to gain practical experience while developing technical and professional skills.