Chandigarh, August 5, 2026:The first meeting of the State Steering Committee (SSC) of the Chandigarh Cluster under the Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs (PM-SETU) Scheme was held today under the chairmanship of Shri H. Rajesh Prasad, IAS, Chief Secretary, U.T. Chandigarh. The Committee reviewed the implementation roadmap for the Scheme and deliberated on measures to strengthen industry-led skill education and create a future-ready workforce in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

The meeting was attended by Sh. Diprava Lakra, IAS , Finance Secretary; Ms. Prerna Puri, IAS, Secretary, Technical Education, U.T. Chandigarh; representatives of the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC); industry representatives; and other members of the State Steering Committee.

Dr. Palika Arora, PCS, Director Technical Education and Mission Director, Chandigarh Skill Development Mission (CSDM), made a detailed presentation on the PM-SETU Scheme, outlining the implementation strategy for the Chandigarh Cluster and the progress made in the selection of the Anchor Industry Partner.

Following detailed deliberations, the State Steering Committee approved revisions to the eligibility criteria for the selection of the Anchor Industry Partner. The approved changes include rationalisation of the minimum annual turnover and employee strength requirements, enhancement of the permissible consortium size for joint participation in the bidding process, and other enabling provisions to encourage wider industry participation. The revised criteria are expected to attract a larger pool of competent industry partners and facilitate the timely and effective implementation of the Scheme.

The Chief Secretary underscored the importance of close collaboration between the Government and industry for the successful implementation of the PM-SETU Scheme. He observed that the initiative would transform Chandigarh’s Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) into centres of excellence with modern infrastructure, industry-aligned curricula, advanced training facilities and stronger industry linkages. He further emphasized that the Scheme would enhance the employability of youth by equipping them with industry-relevant skills and preparing them for emerging employment opportunities.

The PM-SETU Scheme is a flagship initiative of the Government of India aimed at modernising Industrial Training Institutes through active industry participation, strengthening skill education and creating a robust ecosystem for high-quality training and sustainable employment