UP govt partners Tata NELCO to set up DREAM skill labs in 150 ITIs
Indiatimes May 07, 2026 10:40 PM
The Uttar Pradesh government has approved a project in partnership with Tata NELCO to establish DREAM skill labs in 150 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across the state. The initiative, titled DREAM: Design, Robotics, Electronics, and Additive Manufacturing—is aimed at strengthening practical and industry-oriented training for students enrolled in vocational education institutions.
According to officials, the proposal was cleared by the state cabinet earlier this week, marking a step toward integrating advanced technologies into skill development programs. The labs are expected to provide students with exposure to emerging fields such as robotics, electronic systems, 3D printing, and modern design technologies, which are increasingly relevant in the industrial and manufacturing sectors.
The collaboration with Tata NELCO is intended to bring industry expertise into the training ecosystem. The labs will be designed to offer hands-on learning experiences, allowing students to work directly with tools and technologies used in contemporary production and engineering environments. Authorities have indicated that the initiative is also aimed at improving employability by aligning vocational training with current market demands.
Each selected ITI is expected to receive infrastructure support and equipment required to run the DREAM labs. The rollout will be phased, with implementation plans to ensure standardized training modules across participating institutes. While the government has positioned the project as part of its broader skill development strategy, it also reflects a growing emphasis on public-private partnerships in education.
Education experts note that such initiatives could help bridge the gap between traditional classroom learning and industry requirements. However, they also emphasize the importance of continuous faculty training and sustained industry engagement to ensure long-term effectiveness.
Once operational, the DREAM skill labs are expected to contribute to creating a more technically skilled workforce in Uttar Pradesh, particularly in sectors linked to manufacturing, automation, and digital fabrication.
