Bhubaneswar: In a significant boost to regional aviation security and skill development, the Odisha State Government is set to establish a cutting-edge Aviation Security Training Institute (ASTI) at the Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) here.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Directorate of Aviation under the Commerce and Transport Department, aims to address the escalating demand for highly trained aviation security professionals across the state and the broader Eastern region of India.
The new institute will be a comprehensive center for imparting crucial aviation security training, along with other aviation-related skill and proficiency development programs.
Officials confirmed that the erstwhile Government Aviation Training Institute (GATI), located within the Directorate of Aviation premises at BPIA, is undergoing extensive refurbishment and modernization to meet the stringent guidelines and secure approval from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), Government of India.
This accreditation is essential for the institute to conduct various approved aviation security-related courses.
While the full development of the permanent facility is underway and expected to take some time, authorities have identified an interim location within Bhubaneswar. This temporary setup will be equipped with all necessary infrastructure to commence training activities promptly, pending due authorization from relevant agencies.
The primary objective of the ASTI is to cater to the specific aviation security training requirements of personnel currently serving at various airports within Odisha and the Eastern region. “This institute will provide training for a wide array of aviation security and other approved courses, directly addressing the burgeoning need for skilled aviation professionals,” explained a senior official. “Ultimately, it will create significant job opportunities for aspiring youth in the state.”
The long-term vision for the ASTI is to evolve into a recognized “Centre of Excellence” in aviation security training, aiming to fulfill the growing demand for trained aviation security personnel nationwide.
To ensure the institute adheres to the highest industry standards, the State Government has proposed a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model for its operation, maintenance, and management. This will involve outsourcing these functions to a private partner on a revenue-share basis. The initial contract for operation and maintenance will be for a period of three years, with a provision for extension by another three years based on satisfactory performance.
The government will provide the initial training infrastructure, including classrooms, furniture, fixtures, and essential training aids, in a ready-to-use condition. Following this, the PPP partner will be responsible for the ongoing operation and maintenance of the facility, in addition to planning, coordinating, and conducting diverse training courses.
Emphasizing inclusivity, officials stated that while basic qualifications for professional courses will be maintained, priority will be given to candidates from Odisha, ensuring reasonable and affordable charges.
The overarching focus remains on maximizing the utilization of the facility and producing job-ready professionals who can be readily absorbed by the dynamic aviation industry.