Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Two advanced laboratories the Toyota India Center for Excellence and the TNS India Foundation EV and Solar Lab were inaugurated at Deogiri Government Industrial Training Institute (ITI) on Thursday by OBC welfare, dairy development, traditional energy and disability welfare minister Atul Save, while skill, employment, entrepreneurship and innovation minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha attended virtually.
Under the initiative, advanced laboratories are being set up in ITIs across Maharashtra to modernise institutes and transform them into model skill centres. Through its CSR initiative, Toyota Kirloskar Motor has established 14 laboratories in the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar division and three in Nagpur, taking the total to 17 labs with funding of Rs 5.44 crore. Addressing the programme virtually, minister Lodha said the initiative aims to equip rural students with practical skills and improve employment opportunities. The programme includes training in industrial management, modern skills and industrial safety, while laboratories will expose students to modern workshops, equipment, industrial work culture and professional discipline, helping build a skilled workforce. Those present included Satish Suryawanshi from the Department of Vocational Education and Training, minister’s OSD Pankaj Pathak, divisional joint director Pradeep Durge ITI, vice-president Ramesh Rao of Toyota Kirloskar Motor, managing director Roopa Bahra of TNS India Foundation, and Neha Anand. Minister Atul Save said industry participation will strengthen skill-based education and create employment opportunities for local youth. Pradeep Durge delivered the introductory remarks, vice-principal Dilip Wankhede compered the programme and manager Dnyaneshwar Kedare proposed the vote of thanks. The programme concluded with the national anthem. The initiative is part of Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s plan to support development of 45 ITIs across 36 districts of Maharashtra by 2030.
------
Divyang ITI demand raised
A demand to establish a dedicated ITI for Divyang students was raised during the discussion. The Divyang department acknowledged the proposal, and minister Atul Save said efforts would be made to consider it. Magic director Ashish Garde also strongly presented the demand.
------
Students to receive advanced technology training
With the launch of the two laboratories, ITI students will receive practical training in electric vehicle technology, solar energy systems and modern automobile technologies. Certificates were also distributed to principals and instructors who completed Toyota’s training programme.