It gives me great pleasure to present the Training Calendar 2026-2027 of the Central Staff Training and Research Institute (CSTARI), Kolkata.

Situated in Sector V, Salt Lake, Kolkata, the heart of eastern India's vibrant IT corridor, CSTARI has been a premier institution in the field of vocational education, training, and skill development since its establishment in 1968. Over the decades, the Institute has played a pioneering role in the design, development, revision, and modernization of vocational training curricula, ensuring their alignment with emerging technologies, industry requirements, and national priorities.

As a key institution under the Directorate General of Training (DGT), CSTARI has continuously evolved to support India's skill development ecosystem by aligning curricula with the National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF) and contributing to the implementation of various national skill development initiatives. Our primary objective remains the development of industry-relevant training programs that enhance employability and support economic growth.

CSTARI is also recognized as a center of excellence for research and innovation in vocational education and training. Through studies on curriculum development, emerging occupations, training methodologies, assessment systems, and employability skills, the Institute contributes to evidence-based improvements in training quality and policy formulation.

In addition, CSTARI serves as the National Training Academy for officers of the Indian Skill Development Service (ISDS). The Institute conducts induction training, professional development programmes, and specialized capacity-building initiatives to strengthen the leadership, managerial, and technical competencies of ISDS officers, thereby supporting the effective implementation of skill development policies and programmes across the country.

Capacity building has been one of CSTARI's core strengths. Through specialized programmes in Training Management, Pedagogy, Employability Skills, Soft Skills, Digital Learning, and related areas, we continue to enhance the capabilities of officers, master trainers, trainers, vocational instructors, and training managers, thereby improving the overall quality and impact of skill development initiatives nationwide.

The programmes featured in this Training Calendar reflect our commitment to excellence, innovation, and continuous learning. I invite officers, trainers, industry representatives, training institutions, and all stakeholders to actively participate in these programmes and contribute their valuable expertise towards strengthening the nation's skill ecosystem.

Together, through collaboration, innovation, and dedication, we can build a skilled, productive, and empowered workforce capable of meeting the challenges and opportunities of the future.

I extend my best wishes to all participants and look forward to your active engagement in the programmes offered by CSTARI.