The Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC), the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA Academy), and Prayaas Trust have signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to create a scalable, industry-aligned skill development framework for India’s automotive sector.

The initiative aims to bridge skill gaps, provide inclusive employment, and empower economically marginalised youth. Training centres will expand from three to twenty nationwide, targeting 5,000 youth over three years, with 30 per cent of seats reserved for women.

ASDC will lead the development and upgrading of training modules aligned with industry needs, including emerging technologies such as electric vehicles (EVs) and AI-enabled systems. FADA Academy will leverage its dealership network to offer placements, internships, and mentorship opportunities, while Prayaas Trust will identify candidates, deliver training, and provide post-placement support, maintaining a zero-cost model for participants. Funding will come from CSR contributions, industry partnerships, and individual donations.

Corporates are encouraged to sponsor training centres, develop learning resources, and facilitate placements to strengthen the programme’s impact.

Highlighting the significance of the collaboration, Arindam Lahiri, CEO of ASDC, said, “This collaboration ensures underprivileged youth are not left behind in the industry’s evolution.” Saharsh Damani, CEO of FADA Academy, added, “Together, we are shaping futures and strengthening India’s automotive workforce.” Sudhir Kumar, Secretary of Prayaas Trust, noted, “This MoU elevates our grassroots mission to transform lives at scale.” Manish Raj Singhnia, Chairperson of FADA Academy, stated, “FADA Academy stands proud to support an initiative that bridges aspirations with opportunities, shaping a stronger and more equitable automotive future.”