Overview The Directorate General of Training (DGT) , under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) , has partnered with Autodesk to enhance digital design and make skills among faculty and trainers in National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) and Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across India. This collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on November 6, 2025 , aims to strengthen the digital capabilities of trainers and educators, enhance employability skills in students, and prepare India’s workforce for the evolving needs of industries such as architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and construction. Key Objectives Enhance digital skills of trainers and educators. Improve employability skills of students. Prepare India’s workforce for evolving industry needs. Key Developments MoU Exchange Ceremony The MoU was exchanged in the presence of key officials, including Ms. Debashree Mukherjee , Secretary, MSDE; Shri Sunil Kumar Gupta , Deputy Director General, DGT; and representatives from Autodesk, including Andrew Anagnost , President and CEO, and Kamolika Gupta Peres , Vice President, India & SAARC. Alignment with Industry Needs According to Autodesk’s State of Design and Make Report 2025 , 52% of Indian organizations surveyed prioritize AI-related skills in their future hiring. The partnership will align skill development with rapid advancements in AI, industry innovation, and emerging career pathways over the next three years. Software Access and Training Through this MoU, Autodesk will extend its professional-grade software to educators and students across more than 14,500 ITIs and 33 NSTIs . This initiative will enable instructors to skill a large number of young learners while strengthening digital design and manufacturing capabilities across India’s vocational ecosystem. Statements from Key Officials Secretary MSDE, Smt. Debashree Mukherjee “This partnership with Autodesk will greatly enhance the capabilities of trainers across NSTIs and ITIs by integrating advanced design technologies into vocational education. Together, we aim to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world industry practices, enabling our trainers to deliver training that meets global quality benchmarks and supports India’s journey toward becoming a hub for skilled, technology-driven talent.” President and CEO, Autodesk, Mr. Andrew Anagnost “Autodesk is proud to support India’s vision of becoming a global leader in skilled talent. Our partnership with DGT is about empowering educators and students with the advanced digital tools and industry-relevant learning they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. As AI transforms design and manufacturing, the demand for AI-ready talent is greater than ever. By strengthening India’s skill development in advanced design and make technology, we’re helping build a workforce that’s ready for opportunities today and in the future.” Initiative Details The initiative will involve the joint development of educational programs, curriculum, learning activities, and leveraging Autodesk’s technology. Autodesk offers free access to its design and make technologies for students and educators globally, along with comprehensive curricula, hands-on training, and learning resources. About DGT The Directorate General of Training (DGT) , under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) , is the apex body responsible for formulating national policies, standards, and coordination of vocational training in India, including women’s training. Key Schemes Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS) Apprenticeship Training Scheme (ATS) Craft Instructor Training Scheme (CITS) Through these schemes, DGT ensures large-scale skill development through more than 14,500 ITIs , 33 National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) and Institutes for Training of Trainers (IToTs), training over 23 lakh trainees nationwide. It is also driving modernization of ITIs with new-age trades in AI, IoT, Mechatronics, Renewable Energy, 3D Printing, and Drone Technology. UPSC Relevance This partnership is relevant to GS2: Government Policies and Interventions and GS3: Skill Development and Industry . It highlights the government's focus on enhancing skill development and integrating advanced technologies into vocational training. The emphasis on AI-related skills aligns with the evolving needs of the industry and the importance of preparing the workforce for future job opportunities.