Visakhapatnam’s technical education sector is set for a major upgrade, with ₹200 crore approved for the modernisation of four government Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in the city’s cluster under the Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs (PM-SETU) scheme.

The Centre, the Andhra Pradesh government and ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India) have signed a shareholders’ agreement to formalise the partnership and move the project towards implementation. The Visakhapatnam cluster was the first in the country to receive approval for its Strategic Investment Plan under the scheme.

 

The planned upgrades include modern training workshops and laboratories, industry-relevant equipment, updated curricula, new trades, hands-on practical training and improved instructor training. The project will be implemented by AM/NS India with academic and technical support from the New Age Makers’ Institute of Technology (NAMTECH).

A dedicated Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) will manage the upgrade and operations. AM/NS India will hold a 51% stake, while the Central and Andhra Pradesh governments will each hold 24.5%.

 

The initiative aims to strengthen vocational education and improve students’ employability by equipping them with skills relevant to manufacturing and emerging industrial requirements. It is part of the broader PM-SETU programme to modernise government ITIs through industry partnerships.