Context:
Recently, the Union Cabinet approved the continuation and restructuring of the Central Sector Scheme ‘Skill India Programme (SIP)’ till 2026.
More on the News:
The scheme was approved with an overlay outlay of Rs.8,800 crore from the period 2022-23 to 2025-26.
“Skill India Programme” now combined the following three schemes as its components:
- Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 (PMKVY 4.0)
- Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS)
- Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) Scheme
The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship’s above three flagship schemes have benefitted more than 2.27 crore individuals to date.
Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0:
- PMKVY 4.0 scheme provides National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) aligned skill development training through Short-Term Training (STT) including Special Projects (SP) and reskilling and upskilling through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for 15-59 years age group.
- It has provided over 400 new courses on AI, 5G technology, cybersecurity, green hydrogen and drone technology among others.
- To strengthen quality training and assessments, a national pool of one lakh assessors and trainers is being developed.
PM National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS)
- It was launched in 2016, to to provide financial incentives to the establishments engaging apprentice under the Apprentices Act, 1961.
- To support both apprentices and establishments in India, 25% of the stipend, up to Rs.1,500 per month per apprentice, will be provided through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) during the training period, provided by the Central Government.
- The scheme is designed for individuals aged 14 to 35 years.
Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) Scheme
- It is a community-centric skilling initiative for vocational training accessible, flexible, particularly for women, rural youth, and economically disadvantaged groups and caters to the age group of 15 -45 years of age.
- JSS is linked with key initiatives of the Government like: PM JANMAN, Understanding of Lifelong Learning for All in Society (ULLAS), etc. to promote inclusive skilling
Significance of the Skill India Programme
- This initiative will provide structured skill development, on-the-job training, and community-based learning, ensuring that both urban and rural populations have access to high-quality vocational education.
- The Skill India Programme is vital in preparing India’s workforce for the changing global economy.
- It plays a key role in boosting employment, entrepreneurship, and productivity in various sectors.