New Delhi : The Directorate General of Training
(DGT), under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government
of India, has issued detailed guidelines regarding the implementation of a
mandatory provision of 150 hours of On the Job Training (OJT) or Group Project
for trainees in Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) under the Craftsmen
Training Scheme (CTS). This provision has been made effective from the academic
session 2022–23.
In the traditional
training system, trainees primarily receive instruction using tools and
machines available within ITI campuses. This limits their exposure to modern
and emerging industrial technologies. As a result, many trainees require
additional on the job training after joining the industry. In view of the
rapidly evolving industrial landscape and continuous technological
advancements, strengthening industry integrated training has become essential. In
alignment with the National Education Policy 2020, DGT has restructured CTS
qualifications. The annual training duration has been reduced from 1600 hours
to 1200 hours. In addition, a mandatory provision of 150 hours of OJT or Group
Project has been introduced to ensure that trainees gain real industrial
exposure.
On this
occasion, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge)
for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education,
Government of India, stated, “The
mandatory 150 hours of structured On-the-Job Training or Group Project for ITI
trainees is a significant reform to enhance the quality and relevance of
vocational education. In a rapidly evolving industrial landscape, classroom
learning alone is not enough. Real workplace exposure builds practical
competence, confidence and professionalism. This step will deepen industry–institution
linkages and ensure that our youth are truly job-ready and future-ready.”
He further added, “The
government’s objective is not merely to provide certificates, but to equip
youth with skills aligned to real industry needs. Through an industry
integrated training model, this step will accelerate the vision of ‘Skilled
India, Developed India’. In line with the National Education Policy 2020, this
initiative will prove to be an important milestone in making skill training
more relevant, practical, and industry focused.”
The primary
objective of OJT or Group Project is to strengthen the employability of ITI
trainees by aligning their skills with actual industry requirements. It will
enhance collaboration between industries and ITIs, ensuring that training
programs remain updated in accordance with current industry needs. This
initiative will help trainees integrate smoothly into the workforce and adapt
better to workplace environments. It will also ensure continuous assessment of
their skills in real industrial settings so that their competencies develop in
line with industry standards.
Under this provision,
it is mandatory for every trainee to undergo OJT or, where OJT is not feasible,
to complete a project related to their respective trade. Trainees will become
eligible for OJT or project work only after completing a minimum of three
months of training in the ITI. The training will be conducted under the
guidance of industry mentors, and their performance will be regularly
evaluated. Trainees will be required to maintain a logbook documenting their
activities and the skills they acquire.The final assessment will be conducted
during the practical examination. It will be based on mentor or trainer
evaluation, review of the logbook, and a viva. The corresponding grade will be
reflected in the marksheet. Upon successful completion, an industry approved certificate
will be issued by the ITI.
Keeping trainee
safety in view, State Directorates may consider provisions such as accidental
group insurance. Arrangements for travel and accommodation may also be made for
trainees undergoing OJT at distant locations. Additionally, OJT will be
incorporated as an important parameter in the Data Driven Grading Methodology
(DDGM) in the future. For trainees studying under the Dual System of Training
(DST) mode, mandatory project work has been provided in place of OJT, as they
already undergo industry training.
DGT has directed
all State and Union Territory Skill Development Departments, NSTIs, and RDSDEs
to identify suitable industries and ensure that trainees are provided with
quality OJT opportunities, along with effective implementation of the
guidelines.
This initiative
will further strengthen the ITI skill ecosystem by deepening industry linkages.
It will reinforce the Skill India Mission and serve as an important step
towards making youth self reliant, industry ready, and better prepared for
sustainable employment.
The Craftsmen
Training Scheme (CTS), launched in 1950, is a well-established initiative aimed
at creating a skilled workforce in the country. It provides employment-oriented
training to youth and equips them with skills aligned to industry requirements.
Through NCVET (National Council for Vocational Education and Training) and DGT
certification, millions of young individuals have gained access to long term
career opportunities. The scheme continues to play a significant role in
building India’s productive workforce.