The CSIR Integrated Skill Initiative is a flagship national programme of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), designed to advance India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Skill India. The initiative focuses on bridging the gap between scientific research and industry needs by integrating skill development with science and technology, thereby enhancing employability and entrepreneurship across the country.
Leveraging CSIR’s extensive research infrastructure, nationwide laboratory network, and scientific expertise, the programme offers inclusive and accessible skilling opportunities. It caters to a wide range of beneficiaries, including students, researchers, technical staff, working professionals, school dropouts, ITI diploma holders, farmers, women, and rural communities. The core emphasis is on aligning skill training with real-world industrial, societal, and entrepreneurial requirements.
The initiative delivers structured short-term and long-term training modules such as internships, certification programmes, and hands-on laboratory exposure. These programmes cover 18 major sectors identified under the National Skill Development Mission, including aerospace and aviation, agriculture, automotive, electronics, healthcare, green jobs, life sciences, textiles, IT and ITeS, among others. The objective is to equip learners with both strong theoretical foundations and practical competencies to support sustainable career growth.
Since its inception, the CSIR Integrated Skill Initiative has trained over 1.90 lakh individuals through more than 5,200 skill-based programmes, with focused outreach for rural populations and women during its first two phases. Phase III of the initiative was launched in June 2025 by Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General, CSIR and Secretary, DSIR, with renewed emphasis on advanced skilling, academia–industry collaboration, and accelerated national development. In its first year alone, Phase III has trained over 14,000 participants through 425+ programmes conducted across 37 CSIR laboratories nationwide.
The CSIR–Human Resource Development Centre (HRDC), Ghaziabad, serves as the nodal agency for the initiative, ensuring effective coordination, monitoring, and evaluation. With a strong focus on quality, relevance, and impact, the CSIR Integrated Skill Initiative continues to play a vital role in building a skilled, knowledgeable, and self-reliant India.
