Jammu, Oct 19 (KNS): Leader of Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Sunil Sharma, on Monday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Chaudhary after the Centre approved investment plans worth ?475.41 crore for upgrading 10 Government Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in Jammu and Kashmir under the PM-SETU scheme.

The approval by the National Steering Committee aims to strengthen vocational training infrastructure, improve industry-oriented skills and create better employment opportunities for youth.

Under the plan, the Jammu cluster will receive ?240 crore, with ITI Jammu as the hub institute and ITIs at R.S. Pura, Nowshera, Samba and Kathua as linked institutes. The Srinagar cluster will receive ?235.41 crore, with ITI Srinagar as the hub institute and ITIs at Ganderbal, Kangan, Budgam and Charar-i-Sharief as linked institutes.

Sharma said the investment would boost skill development and help young people acquire industry-relevant skills through modern workshops, advanced equipment, improved instructor training and updated courses.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

He said the number of ITIs in Jammu and Kashmir had increased from 35 in 2014 to 56 at present, while seating capacity had risen from around 3,800 to over 12,400.

The LoP also thanked Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for his support towards strengthening vocational education in the Union Territory.

Sharma urged the Omar Abdullah-led government to ensure the timely release of the UT’s matching share, wherever applicable, and complete the required administrative formalities without delay.

He said timely implementation would be essential to translate the approved investment into modern training facilities, improved employability and sustainable employment opportunities for the youth.(KNS)