REHAU Empowers ITI Graduates with Skill Training in Woodworking under PMKVY
REHAU, a leading global provider of polymer-based solutions, has initiated a monthly skill training programme for budding ITI graduates in the woodworking industry. Conducted under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), this initiative reflects the company’s commitment to developing skilled manpower and supporting the Government of India’s vision of empowering youth through vocational training.
India’s woodworking and furniture market is expanding rapidly, with estimates suggesting that the sector will grow from approximately ₹1.42 lakh crore in 2025 to over ₹2.17 lakh crore by 2030, at a CAGR of nearly 9 percent. Similarly, the country’s wood-based panel market is projected to more than double its revenues, from around ₹13,900 crore in 2024 to nearly ₹32,600 crore by 2030. The plywood segment alone is expected to grow from about ₹23,500 crore in FY 2024-25 to nearly ₹38,800 crore by FY 2033-34. While demand is surging, the availability of adequately trained workers who can handle advanced machinery, adopt modern manufacturing methods, and meet global quality standards remains a pressing challenge.
REHAU’s training programme has been designed to address this gap by offering hands-on instruction in woodworking, panel processing, CNC operations, and sustainable material practices. Participants also receive certification aligned with National Occupational Standards under PMKVY, ensuring that their skills are formally recognised within the industry. The initiative not only enhances technical competence but also helps graduates improve employability through soft skills development and mentorship by seasoned experts.
Since its inception in 2015, PMKVY has trained more than 1.6 crore youth across India. However, government data shows that only about 24.3 lakh of them, less than 15 percent have secured employment. This underlines the urgent need for focused, sector-specific training that can directly connect skilled youth to viable industry opportunities. REHAU’s monthly training activity seeks to improve placement outcomes by providing young professionals with practical, industry-relevant expertise and bridging the gap between classroom learning and workplace requirements.
The programme is expected to benefit not only the trainees but also the wider woodworking industry, which stands to gain from an infusion of skilled talent. With increased demand in both domestic and export markets, skilled graduates will help reduce reliance on external consultants and enhance the productivity and competitiveness of Indian manufacturers. Furthermore, the training emphasizes sustainable practices that align with environmental norms, preparing the industry for a future that balances growth with responsibility.
“At REHAU, we believe that growth in India’s woodworking industry depends not only on infrastructure and market demand, but equally on skilled hands and strong technical foundations. By offering monthly, industry-aligned training under PMKVY to ITI graduates, we aim to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. This initiative does not just benefit individual youth; it builds capacity across the sector, enhances quality and sustainability, and helps India fulfil its vision of becoming a global hub for wood processing and furniture manufacturing,” said Mr. Tushar Verma, Executive Vice President, REHAU India and Subcon.
With this initiative, REHAU continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening India’s woodworking sector, contributing to employment generation, and aligning industry growth with the government’s skilling vision—truly living up to its philosophy of being Made to Matter.
