Bhubaneswar, Sep 11: In a major push toward inclusive skill development, the Odisha government has announced plans to establish new Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across all blocks of the state by 2047.

The initiative aims to bridge the gap in vocational education and empower youth with employable skills.

Currently, only 0.23 ITIs exist per block in the state. To address this disparity, the Department of Skill Development and Technical Education has issued directives to prepare a feasibility report within one month for setting up new government ITIs. The move follows proposals received from ministers, MPs, MLAs, and other stakeholders across various regions.

The government has set a milestone to ensure that by 2036, every block will have at least one ITI under planning, and by 2047, full implementation will be achieved. This ambitious plan is expected to significantly enhance access to vocational training, especially in rural and underserved areas.

A formal letter has been sent to the Director of Vocational Education and Training, instructing them to initiate the groundwork and submit a detailed report outlining infrastructure, staffing, and curriculum needs. The new ITIs will offer courses aligned with industry demands, including trades in engineering, services, and emerging technologies.

Officials believe the expansion will not only improve employment prospects for youth but also support Odisha’s broader vision of becoming a skilled workforce hub. The initiative complements existing programs like the World Skill Centre in Bhubaneswar, which offers advanced diploma training in collaboration with international partners.