FICCI, FRSN launch framework to grade India’s ITIs

The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and the Future Right Skills Network (FRSN) on Saturday jointly launched ‘The State of India’s ITIs: A Grading Framework for Readiness and Reform’, a blueprint aimed at evaluating whether India’s Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) are equipping youth for the future of work.

The framework was formally launched by Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary during the FICCI Global Skills Summit 2025.

The initiative coincides with the Centre’s rollout of its ambitious Rs 60,000 crore ITI Upgrade Scheme, which aims to modernise government ITIs and establish National Centres of Excellence. The newly launched framework supports this national agenda by offering a strategic approach to improving institutional performance, strengthening data systems and aligning skilling outcomes with industry demand.

Designed to institutionalise regular performance assessments, the framework is rooted in the principle that ITIs must prepare young people for meaningful and future-ready employment. It evaluates institutes across three key pillars: youth readiness and skills, iti–industry engagement and institutional functioning. By focusing on these core levers, the framework aims to generate sharper insights and promote evidence-based reforms.

Jyoti Vij, Director General of FICCI, said, “India’s ITIs are the backbone of our technical training system, yet their true potential is realised only when they are empowered, industry-connected and outcome-focused. This framework is a step towards building that enabling environment — where data informs decisions and decisions create impact.”

The blueprint is expected to serve as a practical tool to help policymakers, educators and industry leaders bridge the gap between training institutions and employment realities.