“A skilled workforce is the backbone of a strong and self-reliant India.”- Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In a rapidly evolving professional landscape, the need for continuous skill development is undeniable. As professionals, you are well aware that staying ahead in your careers requires a commitment to learning and upskilling. The Government of India has rolled out several skill development initiatives to promote upskilling among the Indian workforce and increase their employability quotient.
The NSDC is a not-for-profit organization jointly owned by the government as well as private entities. The organization has rolled out several successful initiatives mentioned below that continue to create a remarkable impact in terms of improving the skills quotient of Indian professionals.
The Kaushal Vikas Yojana stands tall as one of the flagship skill development programs of the NSDC. It’s designed to provide industry-relevant skills to our youth, nurturing their employability. Successful candidates not only acquire skills but also receive monetary rewards and placement assistance, which is a vital step towards employability enhancement.
Under various NSDC programs, Rozgar Melas or job fairs are organized. These events bridge the gap between job seekers and employers, directly impacting employability by creating numerous opportunities for job placements.
Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendras (PMKK) are instrumental in equipping individuals with industry-specific skills. These training centers and labs serve as hubs for skill development, ensuring that individuals emerge job-ready.
To indirectly benefit employability, the Capacity Building Scheme focuses on enhancing the capabilities of training partners and developing the necessary infrastructure. A skilled trainer ensures a skilled workforce, thereby boosting employability.
For the youth of Jammu & Kashmir, Udaan is a ray of hope. This program provides skill development training and job placement opportunities in the valley region, significantly enhancing employability in the region.
India International Skill Centers (IISCs) aim to elevate Indian youth’s competitiveness in the global job market by providing international-level skills training. The global economy demands a global skill set, and these centers are paving the way.
Pre Departure Orientation Training (PDOT) plays a crucial role in preparing Indian workers heading abroad for employment. By providing orientation and skill development, it ensures they are job-ready when they begin their employment journey abroad.
These initiatives aim to bridge the gap between education and employability. By providing students with vocational skills and exposure to industry trends, they are better prepared to enter the workforce confidently.
Parallel to NSDC, the Directorate General of Training (DGT) has launched various programs to enhance employability.
The Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS) offers trade-specific training to individuals, enhancing their employability across diverse industries, including manufacturing and services.
Crafts Instructor Training Scheme (CITS) aims to develop skilled instructors who can impart quality training to aspiring craftsmen, indirectly boosting employability.
Under the Apprentices Act, 1961, this program enables individuals to gain practical work experience and skills while employed as apprentices, directly enhancing their employability.
The Advanced Vocational Training Scheme (AVTS) focuses on providing advanced training in specialized trades, significantly increasing the employability of candidates in specialized sectors.
This scheme specifically targets women, equipping them with skills that improve their employability in various sectors, contributing to a more diverse and inclusive workforce.
Apart from NSDC and DGT, there are various other schemes and initiatives that collectively contribute to employability enhancement.
Pradhan Mantri ‘YUVA’ Yojana focuses on fostering entrepreneurship and skill development among young individuals. By encouraging self-employment and job creation, it adds a new dimension to employability and creates a ripple effect of employment generation.
Access to loans is facilitated through the Skill Loan Scheme, making it easier for individuals to invest in their skill development and, in turn, their employability.
Indian Institute of Skills (IISs) are advanced training institutes offering specialized courses. These institutes ensure high-quality training and employability in specific sectors, aligning with industry needs.
The Skill Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for Livelihood Promotion (SANKALP) program aims to enhance employability by improving the quality and relevance of skill development programs. In a world where skills evolve rapidly, this program keeps individuals prepared for change.
In aspirational districts, skill development initiatives are prioritized to uplift the employability of residents in underserved areas, creating more equitable access to opportunities.
The integration of technology in skill development programs helps participants acquire tech-savvy skills, highly employable in today’s digital economy. Adapting to technological changes is crucial for staying employable.
In conclusion, these skill development schemes and initiatives collectively aim to boost employability, aligning the workforce with industry needs and promoting economic growth in India. The impact on employability varies by program and region, but they all contribute to enhancing the skills and employability of individuals.
As professionals, your commitment to continuous learning and skill development aligns with these initiatives. It’s not just about staying employable; it’s about thriving in an ever-evolving job market. Embrace these opportunities, invest in your skills, and be the driving force behind India’s journey towards a highly skilled and employable workforce.
The impact of these government skill development schemes is tangible and impressive. According to the Economic Survey 2022-23, the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) has trained over 1.1 crore individuals, with more than 21.4 lakh successfully placed in jobs across various sectors.
Rozgar Melas has facilitated job placements for tens of thousands of job seekers, significantly boosting their employability. Moreover, the Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS), administered by the Directorate General of Training (DGT), has been instrumental in producing a skilled workforce, with nearly 26.58 lakh individuals receiving training in diverse trades. These statistics underscore the substantial impact these schemes have had on employability, bridging the gap between skills and opportunities for millions of Indians.
“Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death.”- Albert Einstein
The government has created umpteen resources and schemes to upskill you and crores of other Indians. In this fast-paced world, continuous learning is the only means to stay ahead of the curve and have a content and successful career. The responsibility to succeed lies solely on your shoulders so go ahead and explore how you can benefit from these schemes.
Pankaj Bansal is the Co-founder of Taggd and Caret Capital (a Fund investing in jobs and work tech). He is a non-executive director at Karmayogi Bharat (Capacity building or Civil Servants) and many other startups. Follow him on Twitter at @pankajbansalPB.
