India-France Launch Aviation Skilling Centre in Kanpur

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the establishment of a National Centre of
Excellence (NCoE) for Skilling in Aeronautics and Defence at the National Skill Training
Institute (NSTI) in Kanpur, in collaboration with France, under the Pradhan Mantri Skilling
and the Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs (PM-SETU) scheme of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).
The announcement came during a joint press statement with French President Emmanuel
Macron, while inaugurating the India–France Year of Innovation, highlighted deepened
bilateral ties in advanced sectors. This world-class institution will deliver advanced training in aeronautics, Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO), airport operations, and defence
manufacturing, and related fields, bolstering India’s growing aerospace and defence
ecosystem.
Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Shri
Jayant Chaudhary noted that PM-SETU is redefining India’s ITI landscape under PM Modi’s
vision. The Kanpur NCoE will produce globally competitive aviation professionals, enhancing
India-France strategic partnerships in emerging technologies like aeronautics and advanced
manufacturing.
A Letter of Intent (LoI) was exchanged between MSDE and the French Government, building on a 2025 MoU for skill development and vocational training. Collaboration includes
co-designed curricula, trainer programs, joint reviews, exchanges, language training, and
mobility pathways in aeronautics and space.
With ₹60,000 crore outlay, PM-SETU targets upgrading 1,000 ITIs nationwide, modernising
infrastructure, aligning curricula with industry needs, and boosting employability. Additional
NCoEs at Ludhiana, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bhubaneswar will focus on advanced
manufacturing, emerging tech, and high-growth services, supporting Viksit Bharat 2047
through industry-integrated vocational education.