Polytechnic colleges under CET purview will strengthen technical education, says Minister - The HinduUpdated - August 20, 2026 08:30 pm ISTHYDERABADMinister for SHAKTI, formerly Department of Labour, Dr. G. Vivek Venkataswamy, on Thursday said that the plan to bring polytechnic colleges under the purview of the Commissionerate of Employment and Training (CET) is an effort to strengthen technical education. The other intended outcome, he said, is to align it more closely with industry and employment opportunities.Addressing the media, the Minister pointed out that the GO issued brings polytechnics under CET from the Commissionerate of Technical Education, and added that it was an administrative restructuring. The decision would not alter the identity or recognition of polytechnic education, he added.All the existing stipulations including the three-year AICTE-recognised diploma courses, fee and system lateral entry will remain continue unchanged. Polytechnic admissions and examinations would also continue through a separate polytechnic unit under the restructured State Board of Technical Education and Training.Assuring employees that their interests would be protected, the Minister said there would be no reduction in existing posts and that government employee status, pay scales, seniority, promotions and pension-related benefits would continue. Polytechnic employees would not become employees of the Young India Skills University (YISU) or private entities.The clarification comes against the backdrop of protests by students across ITIs over the decision. Students of the Government Polytechnic in Ramantapur, Quli Qutb Shah Government Polytechnic, and in Bahadurpura have been boycotting classes and organising demonstrations against the integration of these educational institutions with SHAKTI.One of the concerns of students is that the vocational modules will treat them as “semi-skilled factory manpower” rather than as technical professionals. They also demanded clear answers regarding upcoming examinations, syllabus structures, academic calendars.Published - August 20, 2026 08:29 pm ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }