Skill India Programme: Empowering the Workforce
The Indian government has taken a significant step towards enhancing the nation’s workforce by approving the continuation and restructuring of the Skill India Programme (SIP). Chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union Cabinet has allocated an impressive Rs. 8,800 crore for this initiative, which will run from 2022-23 to 2025-26. This decision reflects the government’s commitment to creating a skilled workforce that is ready for the future. The program aims to integrate demand-driven, technology-enabled, and industry-aligned training across the country.
Key Components of the Skill India Programme
The Skill India Programme comprises three essential components: the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 (PMKVY 4.0), the Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS), and the Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) Scheme. Together, these initiatives aim to provide structured skill development, on-the-job training, and community-based learning. The goal is to ensure that both urban and rural populations, including marginalized communities, have access to high-quality vocational education.
Since its inception, the Skill India Programme has benefited over 2.27 crore individuals. PMKVY 4.0 focuses on providing National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF)-aligned skill development training. It includes Short-Term Training (STT) and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for individuals aged 15 to 59. The program has undergone significant changes to align skill development with industry needs and national priorities. Notably, it now integrates On-the-Job Training (OJT) within short-term skilling programs, allowing trainees to gain real-world experience.
Innovations in PMKVY 4.0
The PMKVY 4.0 scheme has introduced several innovative features to enhance its effectiveness. One of the key changes is the introduction of over 400 new courses focusing on emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), 5G technology, Cybersecurity, Green Hydrogen, and Drone Technology. This ensures that the training provided is relevant to the evolving job market.
The program also adopts a blended and flexible learning model that incorporates digital delivery. This approach makes training more accessible and scalable. To further enhance employability, the initiative introduces micro-credential and National Occupational Standards (NoS)-based courses, which range from 7.5 to 30 hours. Skill Hubs have been established across premier academic institutions, including IITs and NITs, to maximize the use of existing infrastructure and expand access to quality training.
Moreover, the program emphasizes inclusivity by offering training materials in multiple regional languages. Over 600 trainee and trainer handbooks have been translated into eight regional languages to improve learning outcomes. A national pool of one lakh assessors and trainers is being developed to ensure quality training and assessments across all training centers.
Promoting Apprenticeships and Community Learning
The Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS) plays a crucial role in facilitating the transition from education to work. This scheme supports apprentices by providing 25% of their stipend, up to Rs. 1,500 per month, through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) during their training period. The initiative is designed for individuals aged 14 to 35, ensuring that skill development opportunities are accessible to a wide demographic.
Apprenticeship training is recognized globally as an effective model for skill acquisition. It allows youth to gain practical experience while earning a stipend. PM-NAPS encourages apprenticeships in various sectors, including emerging fields like AI, robotics, and green energy. The scheme also focuses on enrolling apprentices in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and underserved areas, such as aspirational districts and the North-East region.
The Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) scheme complements these efforts by providing community-centric vocational training. It targets women, rural youth, and economically disadvantaged groups, offering low-cost, flexible training options. JSS not only focuses on skill development but also promotes social empowerment by raising awareness about health, hygiene, financial literacy, and gender equality.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.