In a major boost to rural skill development, the Government of India has launched a free automotive training program in 2025 under the Skill India initiative. This program is specially designed to empower rural youth with job-ready skills in the ever-evolving automotive sector, including electric vehicle servicing, maintenance, diagnostics, and manufacturing support.
With India’s automobile industry expected to touch $300 billion by 2030, the demand for skilled professionals from tier-2 and rural areas is set to rise. The new scheme aims to bridge this gap by providing practical training, certification, and placement support.
What Is the Skill India Automotive Program?
The program is part of the broader Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) framework and is tailored for individuals who:
-
Have completed at least 8th or 10th standard education
-
Are between 18 and 35 years of age
-
Come from rural or economically backward districts
-
Are interested in careers in the automobile servicing or manufacturing field
This is not just a theory-based course — students will get hands-on workshop experience, industry-standard tools, and soft skill training.
Key Courses Offered in 2025
Some of the major automotive modules include:
-
Two-Wheeler Technician
-
Four-Wheeler Service Technician
-
Auto Electrician
-
EV Maintenance & Battery Technician
-
Auto Painting & Denting
-
Vehicle Health Diagnostics (OBD tools)
-
Welding, Assembly, and Fitment
Courses last from 3 to 6 months depending on the specialization and are certified by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC).
Training Centers and Locations
The free training will be delivered at:
-
Govt ITIs (Industrial Training Institutes)
-
Skill Development Centers (SDCs) under state NSDC affiliates
-
Automobile OEM-backed centers like Maruti Suzuki Training Academy, Hero MotoCorp Skill Centers
-
CSR-funded training centers in backward districts
Each center has been upgraded with modern labs, simulators, and electric vehicle modules for 2025 training requirements.
How to Apply for the 2025 Skill India Auto Program
Applicants can register through the following steps:
-
Visit the Skill India or PMKVY portal (no registration fee required)
-
Select “Automotive” under job role category
-
Enter your details including Aadhaar, address, education
-
Choose the nearest training center and course
-
Submit and await SMS/Email confirmation for joining date
Walk-in applications are also accepted at district employment offices and affiliated centers.
Benefits for Rural Youth
This program goes beyond training — it provides:
-
Free accommodation & meals for select candidates
-
Stipends during training depending on course duration
-
Free toolkits for EV and auto repair modules
-
Direct placement tie-ups with auto dealerships and service centers
-
Government-issued skill certificates for credibility
Some states like Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, and Rajasthan are offering extra travel allowances to female candidates.
FAQs
Is the Skill India automotive training really free?
Yes, all training, toolkits, and certification are completely free for eligible rural youth.
Can I join the training if I live in a village?
Absolutely. The program is targeted specifically for rural and semi-urban youth, and centers are located in accessible areas.
Will I get a job after completing the course?
Placement support is included. Tata Motors, Ashok Leyland, and Hyundai are some of the participating employers.
Are EV (electric vehicle) courses available under this scheme?
Yes, a separate EV module is offered at select centers as part of the 2025 update.
What is the minimum education required?
Most courses require a minimum 8th to 10th pass certificate, though some allow ITI dropouts as well.