CSIR Pioneers Forward in India's Skilling Revolution with Integrated Skill Initiative

The CSIR Integrated Skill Initiative is reshaping India's skill landscape by merging scientific research with industry skills. Aimed at enhancing employability, the program has trained over 1.90 lakh individuals across various sectors. Its third phase emphasizes advanced skilling and stronger academia-industry linkages.

The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is making significant strides in transforming India's skill landscape through its CSIR Integrated Skill Initiative. This national program is closely aligned with the Government of India's visions of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Skill India, serving as a bridge between scientific research and the development of industry-ready skills. Utilizing CSIR's vast research infrastructure, extensive laboratory network, and scientific expertise, the initiative aims to meet the evolving demands for skilled workers in various sectors.

The initiative not only addresses industrial and societal needs but also enhances the employability of a diverse range of beneficiaries. According to a statement from the Ministry of Science & Technology, the program serves students, young researchers, technical staff, working professionals, school dropouts, ITI and diploma holders, farmers, and rural communities. By offering structured short-term and long-term training modules, internships, certification courses, and hands-on lab experiences in emerging technologies, it ensures comprehensive skill development.

Covering 18 out of the 36 key sectoral skills identified under the National Skill Development Mission (NSDM), the program spans critical areas including aerospace, agriculture, automotive, electronics, healthcare, and more. In its initial two phases, the initiative trained over 1.90 lakh individuals through 5,200 training programs, with special efforts for women and rural citizens. Launched in June 2025, the third phase, led by CSIR's Director General Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, focuses on advanced skilling and academia-industry partnerships. As of the first year, over 14,000 individuals have been trained across 37 CSIR labs, with the CSIR-HRDC in Ghaziabad acting as the nodal center for program management.