Gandhinagar:  A new skill development institute focused on the construction of dams, bridges, and roads has been established in Vadnagar, the hometown of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This initiative, named the Construction Skill Training Institute (CSTI), is being developed by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) with an estimated investment of ₹22 crore.

The institute aims to provide vocational training for the construction of major infrastructure projects, equipping young individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills in construction technology. The establishment of CSTI will ensure a readily available pool of skilled and trained youth for various development projects in the region.

In the presence of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the Labour, Skill Development, and Employment Department of the Gujarat government and Larsen & Toubro Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Gandhinagar to formalize the project.

Under the MoU, the Gujarat government will allocate ten acres of land in Vadnagar for the institute. L&T will bear the expenses for the trainees’ accommodation and meals through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The training institute is expected to benefit young individuals from the Sabarkantha, Banaskantha, Mehsana, and Patan districts.

CSTI will offer short-term courses in various specialized areas, including Structural and Finishing Technician, Smart Cities Technician (CCTV and OFC), Solar and Transmission Line Tower Erection Technician, and Fire, Life Safety, and Technician.

These short-term courses are designed to provide skill training to over 1000 youths annually. The institute will cater to the skill requirements of various development projects in North Gujarat, including the Dharoi area development works, the Bharatmala project, and other construction sector initiatives.