Patna, Aug 11: Bihar is set to strengthen its vocational training infrastructure with the establishment of a permanent campus of the National Skill Training Institute for Women (NSTI-W) at Bihta and a Skill India International Centre (SIIC) in Patna.The two initiatives are aimed at providing women and young people with industry-oriented skills and creating better employment opportunities, including jobs in international markets.The permanent NSTI-W campus is expected to be developed at an estimated cost of ₹100 crore.
The facility will include an administrative block, academic infrastructure and a hostel for female trainees.Once operational, the institute is expected to have the capacity to train around 435 candidates annually.The institute will offer 13 trades under the Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS) and Craft Instructor Training Scheme (CITS).
The proposed courses will cover both conventional vocational skills and emerging technologies.Training areas are expected to include artificial intelligence and programming assistance, drone technology, solar technology, radiology, electronics and fashion design, among other specialised fields.
NSTI-W Patna is currently functioning from a temporary campus and has already conducted training in areas such as electronic mechanics, fashion design and technology, artificial intelligence and cosmetology. It has also been associated with programmes related to solar energy, entrepreneurship and skill development.
The proposed permanent campus is expected to expand the institute’s reach and provide women with improved access to technical and vocational education.The second initiative, the Skill India International Centre, will be established in Patna with central assistance of around ₹7 crore. The centre will focus on preparing Bihar’s youth for employment opportunities overseas.
The SIIC will offer foreign-language training in English, German, Japanese and French, besides providing international placement counselling, certification support and pre-departure orientation.The centre will also promote safe migration by helping prospective overseas workers understand recruitment procedures and employment requirements before travelling abroad.Training will be offered for sectors such as electrical services, plumbing, construction and agriculture, with courses designed to meet international occupational standards and the requirements of overseas employers.
The initiatives were announced by Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary and Union Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Chaudhary.Officials expect the two centres to improve access to modern vocational education, strengthen women’s participation in skilled employment and help Bihar’s youth access job opportunities in both domestic and international markets.
The projects are part of efforts to link Bihar’s large young workforce with industry-relevant training, greater economic self-reliance and global employment opportunities.
