As part of the Skill India and NEP 2020 vision, the Maharashtra state government has introduced Auto Technician Labs in several high schools and junior colleges in 2025. This initiative provides students with practical automotive training alongside academic education, helping bridge the skill gap and align rural youth with rising opportunities in India’s booming automobile sector.
This marks a major step in reshaping vocational education in India and preparing students for job-ready careers from an early age.
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What Are Auto Technician Labs?
Auto Technician Labs are dedicated classroom-laboratory setups inside school campuses that replicate real-world automobile garages. These labs allow students to:
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Learn automobile repair basics
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Understand engine mechanisms
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Practice tyre repair, battery maintenance, brake adjustments
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Use diagnostic tools for vehicle servicing
Each lab is equipped with training models, toolkits, hydraulic lifts, engine cut-sections, and multimedia content for theoretical learning.
Why This Initiative Was Launched
The Government of Maharashtra, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and private automotive partners, identified a need to make vocational learning practical and employment-driven. The auto sector continues to grow with electric vehicles, servicing needs, and aftermarket maintenance—all of which require skilled manpower.
This program also aims to:
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Reduce dropout rates after Class 10
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Empower rural and semi-urban students with hands-on skills
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Create pathways into polytechnic colleges and ITIs
Eligibility & Participation
The Auto Technician Lab courses are currently open to:
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Class 9 to Class 12 students
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Government and semi-government school attendees
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Schools in Maharashtra’s urban-rural mixed zones such as Pune, Nashik, Nagpur, Solapur, and Jalgaon
Students can opt for the Automobile Technician elective as part of their vocational subject combination.
Curriculum & Skill Modules
The curriculum has been designed with help from NSDC (National Skill Development Corporation) and includes:
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Basics of IC Engines and EV Powertrains
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Workshop safety and equipment handling
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Scheduled maintenance (oil, coolant, filters)
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Diagnostic tools and OBD scanning
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Customer communication and job card preparation
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Hands-on dismantling and assembling of vehicle parts
Students are assessed both practically and theoretically with certificate-based grading.
Collaboration with Industry Partners
Several auto brands like Tata Motors, Bosch, and TVS have offered training support, equipment, and guest lectures under CSR partnerships. These brands also provide internship opportunities and entry to apprenticeship schemes post-12th.
Students finishing the course may be eligible to:
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Join as junior technicians at service centers
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Apply for advanced diplomas
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Work as field apprentices in EV startups and garage chains
Benefits to Students and Schools
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Builds job-ready technical confidence
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Increases interest in STEM and mechanical fields
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Offers early career exploration before graduation
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Schools gain recognition under Skill India Rating Index
The project is expected to expand across India based on its success in Maharashtra.
FAQs
Who funds the Auto Technician Labs in Maharashtra?
The initiative is co-funded by the Maharashtra Government, CSR programs of automotive companies, and support from central skill development schemes.
Do students receive a certificate?
Yes, after completing the course modules, students receive a Skill Development Certificate recognized by the NSDC.
Is the training available for girls?
Absolutely. The labs are open to all students, and efforts are being made to encourage equal participation by girls, especially in rural areas.
Will this course help with college admissions?
Yes, the vocational skill certificate can add value to polytechnic diploma applications, and also improves employability after Class 12.
Are teachers specially trained?
Yes, schools appoint dedicated vocational trainers who are certified by skill development boards and have hands-on garage experience.
