Minister Vivek Gives Key Assurance to Polytechnic Students

Minister Vivek Venkataswamy said the administrative restructuring was aimed at strengthening polytechnic education, providing industry oriented skill training and improving employment opportunities for students. He clarified that the restructuring of polytechnics and ITIs under the Shakti department would not lead to the cancellation of lateral entry or an increase in fees. The three-year diploma course and existing fee structure will continue, while the government will safeguard the interests of polytechnic employees and future recruitments will continue through TGPSC.

The minister said a 10 year agreement worth ₹2,300 crore has been signed with Tata Technologies to strengthen industry linkages with polytechnic education. MoUs have already been signed with more than 200 industries for placements, training, apprenticeships, internships and curriculum upgrades. A dedicated placement cell will be established in every polytechnic college, while their land, buildings and assets will not be transferred to the Skills University. Lateral entry into engineering through ECET will continue, and the ₹2,000 EWS stipend currently provided in ATCs will also be extended to polytechnic students.