DGT Makes 150 Hours OJT Mandatory for ITI Trainees under the Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS). The Directorate General of Training, functioning under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, has issued detailed guidelines introducing compulsory on-the-job training (OJT) or group project work. The reform aims to enhance industry exposure and improve employability among trainees.
Mandatory 150 Hours OJT Under Craftsmen Training Scheme
As per the new guidelines, every trainee enrolled in Industrial Training Institutes must complete 150 hours of on-the-job training or a group project related to their trade. This provision has been introduced in alignment with the National Education Policy 2020.
Under the revised structure, the annual training duration for CTS qualifications has been reduced from 1,600 hours to 1,200 hours. The mandatory OJT component has been added to ensure practical industrial exposure alongside classroom instruction.
Trainees will become eligible for OJT or project work only after completing a minimum of three months of training at the ITI. The training will be conducted under the supervision of industry mentors, and performance will be evaluated periodically.
For trainees enrolled under the Dual System of Training (DST) mode, mandatory project work will be implemented in place of OJT, as they already receive industry-based training.
Objective of Industry-Integrated ITI Training Reform
Traditionally, ITI trainees receive training using tools and machines available within campus workshops. This limits exposure to modern and emerging industrial technologies. As industries adopt advanced systems and automation, skill alignment has become critical.
The primary objective of the new OJT provision is to strengthen employability by aligning trainee skills with actual industry requirements. The reform also aims to deepen collaboration between ITIs and industries so that training programmes remain updated as per current technological standards.
According to the official statement, this initiative will support smoother workforce integration and continuous skill assessment in real industrial environments. The OJT component is also expected to be incorporated into future data-driven grading methodologies.
Strengthening Vocational Education Framework
Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Chaudhary stated that structured workplace exposure is essential in a rapidly evolving industrial landscape. The introduction of mandatory OJT is expected to enhance practical competence, confidence, and professionalism among trainees.
The Craftsmen Training Scheme, launched in 1950, remains a key national initiative for building a skilled workforce. With the integration of structured industry exposure, the scheme is positioned to strengthen vocational education outcomes and improve job readiness across sectors.