The Directorate General of Training (DGT) under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has introduced a major reform in vocational education by making 150 hours of On-the-Job Training (OJT) or a trade-related group project compulsory for all Industrial Training Institute (ITI) trainees under the Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS). This decision aims to bridge the long-standing gap between classroom-based skill training and real-world industrial requirements across India.
The reform aligns with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, focusing on experiential learning and stronger industry-institution collaboration. Previously, ITI trainees primarily received practical exposure through in-campus tools and machines, which often limited their familiarity with modern industrial technologies. As industries rapidly evolve with automation, digitalisation, and advanced machinery, structured workplace exposure has become essential.
Key Changes in CTS Training Structure
As per the official statement issued by DGT:
- Annual training duration reduced from 1,600 hours to 1,200 hours
- 150 hours of mandatory OJT or Group Project introduced
- Industry mentors will supervise and assess trainee performance
- OJT to become part of a data-driven grading system in the future
This restructuring ensures that trainees gain practical, industry-relevant experience alongside classroom learning.
Objective of the New OJT Guidelines
The primary goals of this reform include:
- Enhancing employability and job-readiness of ITI graduates
- Aligning training content with current industry demands
- Strengthening collaboration between industries and ITIs
- Ensuring continuous skill assessment in real industrial settings
- Building professional competence, confidence, and workplace adaptability
According to Jayant Chaudhary, Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, classroom training alone is insufficient in a rapidly evolving industrial landscape. Real workplace exposure is critical to making youth future-ready and industry-ready.
How the Mandatory OJT Will Work
Under the revised CTS guidelines:
- Every ITI trainee must complete 150 hours of OJT.
- If OJT placement is not feasible, trainees must undertake a trade-related group project.
- Eligibility for OJT/project work begins after completing at least three months of ITI training.
- Training will be conducted under the supervision of industry mentors.
- Regular assessments will track trainee performance and competency.
For trainees enrolled under the Dual System of Training (DST) mode, mandatory project work has been introduced instead of OJT, as these candidates already receive structured industry exposure.
Impact on ITI Trainees and Industry
This initiative is expected to:
- Reduce the need for additional post-placement training
- Improve industry satisfaction with newly recruited ITI graduates
- Update curriculum relevance with emerging technologies
- Enhance India’s skilled workforce under Skill India Mission
The Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS), launched in 1950, remains one of India’s oldest and most significant skill development programmes. This reform marks one of the most substantial updates in its history.
Quick Reference Summary
| Feature | Details |
| Issuing Authority | Directorate General of Training (DGT) |
| Scheme | Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS) |
| Mandatory OJT Hours | 150 Hours |
| Alternative Option | Trade-related Group Project |
| Training Duration Reduced | From 1,600 to 1,200 Hours |
| Eligibility for OJT | After 3 Months of ITI Training |
| Supervision | Industry Mentors |
| Policy Alignment | National Education Policy 2020 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| What is the new OJT requirement for ITI trainees? |
| ITI trainees must complete 150 hours of on-the-job training or a trade-related group project. |
| Under which scheme is this rule implemented? |
| Under the Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS). |
| Has the total CTS training duration changed? |
| Yes, it has been reduced from 1,600 hours to 1,200 hours annually. |
| When can trainees start OJT? |
| After completing at least three months of training at the ITI. |
| What if OJT placement is not available? |
| Trainees must complete a trade-related group project instead. |
| Who will supervise the OJT? |
| Industry mentors will oversee and assess trainee performance. |
| Does this apply to Dual System of Training (DST) students? |
| DST students must complete mandatory project work instead of OJT. |
| Why was this reform introduced? |
| To improve employability and align ITI training with real industry requirements. |
The introduction of mandatory 150 hours of OJT under CTS marks a transformative step in India’s vocational education system. By integrating structured industry exposure with classroom training, the government aims to create a workforce that is both technically competent and industry-ready. ITI students and institutions should carefully follow the updated guidelines and coordinate with industry partners to ensure smooth implementation. For official notifications and further updates, visit the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Directorate General of Training websites, and bookmark this page for continued updates.
