The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and Shell India have joined forces to launch a Green Skills and Electric Vehicle (EV) Training Program aimed at empowering India’s youth. Announced on June 12, 2025, this initiative, implemented through the Directorate General of Training (DGT) and Edunet Foundation, is set to transform skill development in Delhi-NCR, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. By equipping students with expertise in EV technologies and green energy, the program aligns with India’s ambitious net-zero ambitions and the growing demand for sustainable skills.
Key Points:
- Strategic Partnership: MSDE, DGT, Shell India, and Edunet Foundation collaborate.
- Five-State Reach: Targets Delhi-NCR, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.
- Net-Zero Alignment: Supports India’s clean energy and e-mobility goals.
- Youth Empowerment: Prepares students for careers in the green economy.
Cutting-Edge Training for Tomorrow’s Jobs
The program introduces a multi-tier training model across National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) and Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), offering hands-on learning in state-of-the-art EV skill labs. The curriculum, co-developed by Shell, Edunet Foundation, and DGT, covers EV systems, battery technology, diagnostics, digital tools, and safety protocols, ensuring students are industry-ready.
Key Points:
- Advanced EV Labs: Specialized labs in select ITIs and NSTIs for practical training.
- Three-Tier Curriculum:
- 240-hour Advanced EV Technician Course at 4 NSTIs.
- 90-hour Job-Oriented EV Skills Course at 12 ITIs with Shell-supported labs.
- 50-hour Foundational Green Skills Module at additional ITIs without labs.
- Industry-Aligned: Focuses on real-world skills for EV and green energy sectors.
- Co-Branded Certification: Shell and DGT certifications boost employability.
Empowering Educators and Ensuring Jobs
Beyond student training, the initiative includes Training of Trainers (ToT) for over 250 instructors, ensuring high-quality teaching. The program also offers structured placement support, connecting graduates with opportunities in the booming EV and green energy industries, which are projected to create millions of jobs by 2030.
Key Points:
- Trainer Development: ToT program equips 250+ instructors with EV expertise.
- Job Placement Support: Links graduates to green energy and EV sector roles.
- Growing Demand: Aligns with 30% job growth in renewables by 2030, per ILO estimates.
- Future-Ready Workforce: Prepares youth for India’s clean energy transition.
Voices of Vision
Leaders from Shell India and the government have hailed the program as a pivotal step toward sustainability.
- Mansi Madan Tripathy, Chairperson, Shell Group of Companies in India: “Through our collaboration with DGT and Edunet Foundation, we are providing students with practical and future-ready expertise in green energy and electric mobility. This initiative empowers young people to thrive in an evolving energy landscape and contribute toward India’s net-zero ambitions.”
- MSDE Statement: “This initiative is part of our larger vision to create a workforce that is not only job-ready but climate-ready.”
Key Points:
- Shell’s Commitment: Tripathy emphasizes practical skills for sustainability.
- Government’s Vision: MSDE focuses on a climate-ready workforce.
- Positive Sentiment: X posts praise the initiative as a “game-changer” for youth.
- Regional Impact: Boosts employability in five key states.
Why This Matters for India
With India’s EV registrations surging 11-fold from 1.3 million in 2018 to 15.29 million in 2023, and the government targeting 30% EV sales penetration by 2030, the demand for skilled professionals is skyrocketing. This program not only addresses the skill gap but also supports India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission and net-zero by 2070 goals, fostering a sustainable economy.
Key Points:
- EV Boom: 15.29 million EVs registered by 2023, with ambitious 2030 targets.
- Green Job Growth: Projected 3 million renewable energy jobs by 2030.
- Sustainability Focus: Aligns with India’s clean energy and net-zero commitments.
- Economic Impact: Enhances employability and supports ‘Make in India’ goals.
What’s Next for the Program
The first phase, launched on June 12, 2025, is just the beginning. Plans are underway to expand the program to more ITIs and NSTIs, introduce advanced modules, and scale up placement opportunities. The initiative will continue to evolve, incorporating emerging technologies like green hydrogen and energy storage to keep pace with industry trends.
Key Points:
- Phase 1 Rollout: Started June 12, 2025, with EV labs and training modules.
- Future Expansion: Plans to include more institutes and advanced courses.
- Emerging Tech: Potential focus on green hydrogen and energy storage.
- Ongoing Support: Continuous ToT and placement efforts to maximize impact.
