GURGAON: The Japan-India Institute for Manufacturing (JIM) at Uncha Majra, Manesar, is targeting a six-fold increase in female enrolment over the next three academic years, with women expected to account for 30% of its student intake by 2028-29, from around 5% in 2025-26.The institute, which trains students primarily for the automotive manufacturing sector, has introduced a 100% tuition fee waiver for women students from the current academic year and plans to establish a dedicated hostel to make manufacturing courses more accessible to women.The move is aimed at creating a larger pipeline of trained women for India’s manufacturing industry, particularly the automotive ecosystem around Manesar and Gurgaon.JIM Uncha Majra currently offers vocational training in nine trades linked largely to automotive manufacturing.The institute is also looking to increase the representation of women in its faculty and support functions as part of efforts to create a more conducive environment for female trainees.The JIM initiative is part of India-Japan cooperation to develop skilled manpower for India’s manufacturing sector.The institutes combine classroom education with industry exposure under the Dual System of Training, with students undergoing seven months of paid industry training annually.JIM Uncha Majra has also emerged as a strong performer academically. Two of its female students were among Haryana’s state toppers in manufacturing trades this year, while the institute had top rankers across four trades, according to the institute.Rahul Bharti, senior executive officer, corporate affairs, Maruti Suzuki India, said diversity was important for developing a complete manufacturing skills ecosystem.He said many talented women remained unaware of opportunities in manufacturing or did not consider it as a career option.Maruti Suzuki operates four JIMs, at Mehsana and Gandhinagar in Gujarat and Uncha Majra and Sonipat in Haryana.The institutes are affiliated with India’s National Council for Vocational Training and accredited by Japan’s ministry of economy, trade and industry.
