Synopsis
On Feb 7, the Union Cabinet endorsed the Skill India Programme's extension until 2026, allocating Rs 8,800 crore to enhance skill development initiatives across the nation, facilitating a skilled workforce through integrated training and industry partnerships.Key Takeaways
- Rs 8,800 crore allocated for Skill India Programme extension.
- Focus on emerging technologies and skill development.
- Holistic approach to inter-ministerial collaboration.
- Targeted training for aged 14-59 years.
- Access to vocational training for marginalized communities.
New Delhi, Feb 7 (NationPress) The Union Cabinet, guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has sanctioned the continuation and reorganization of the Central Sector Scheme ‘Skill India Programme’ until 2026, with a total allocation of Rs 8,800 crore spanning from 2022-23 to 2025-26.
This decision highlights the government’s dedication to cultivating a skilled and future-ready workforce by incorporating demand-responsive, technology-driven, and industry-focused training nationwide, as stated in a release following the meeting.
The three principal elements—Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 (PMKVY 4.0), Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS), and the Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) Scheme—have been unified under the enhanced Central Sector Scheme of ‘Skill India Programme’.
These initiatives are designed to deliver structured skill development, practical training, and community-driven education, ensuring both urban and rural populations, including marginalized groups, gain access to top-tier vocational training. To date, over 2.27 crore beneficiaries have benefited from these three flagship initiatives of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
The PMKVY 4.0 scheme offers NSQF-aligned skill training via Short-Term Training, including Special Projects and reskilling/upskilling through Recognition of Prior Learning, aimed at individuals aged 15-59 years, as per the statement.
To align with the changing demands of industries and new technologies, more than 400 new courses focusing on AI, 5G, Cybersecurity, Green Hydrogen, and Drone Technology have been introduced, targeting emerging skills.
The training model now embraces a blended and flexible approach, integrating digital delivery for enhanced scalability and adaptability. To provide specific, industry-relevant skills, the programme introduces micro-credential and National Occupational Standards (NoS)-based courses ranging from 7.5 to 30 hours.
A national pool of one lakh assessors and trainers is being established to ensure quality training and assessments across centers. Collaborations with industries facilitate access to job opportunities through Recruit Train Deploy training.
Furthermore, the scheme emphasizes international mobility, equipping Indian workers with globally acknowledged skills.
The PMKVY 4.0 adopts a holistic governmental approach to foster inter-ministerial coordination, ensuring effective implementation of skilling initiatives across various sectors. The scheme includes components from various skill development and entrepreneurship schemes to maximize impact and resource efficiency. Significant collaborations involve PM Vishwakarma under the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, and the National Green Hydrogen Mission from the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
The Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS) facilitates a smooth transition from education to employment by ensuring apprentices acquire industry-specific skills through practical experience. The Central Government will provide 25% of the stipend, up to Rs 1,500 per month for each apprentice during the training period via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). This scheme is designed for individuals aged 14 to 35 years, promoting inclusive access to skill development.
The Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) scheme is a community-focused initiative aimed at making vocational training accessible, adaptable, and inclusive, especially for women, rural youth, and economically disadvantaged groups, targeting ages 15-45 years. By offering affordable, localized training with flexible schedules, JSS ensures that essential skill development reaches those in need, promoting self-employment and paid job opportunities.
All certifications under the Skill India Programme are aligned with national standards, mapped to the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) and integrated with DigiLocker and the National Credit Framework (NCrF), ensuring formal skill recognition and facilitating transitions into employment and higher education.
The Skill India Programme aspires to forge a highly skilled and competitive workforce. As a pivotal element of economic empowerment, Skill India significantly contributes to job creation, entrepreneurship, and productivity enhancement across various sectors.
