1.48 Crore Youths Upskilled under Skill India Mission: Study

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has proven to be a game-changer for India’s workforce since its inception in November 2014.  The ministry has delivered skill, reskill, and upskill training through various schemes through the Skill India Mission (SIM). 

The key initiatives under MSDE include the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS), National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS), and the Craftsman Training Scheme (CTS) through Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs). 

The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) implements various skilling schemes such as PMKVY, NAPS, and PM Vishwakarma, alongside market-driven fee-based programs across India. And as of June 30, 2024, millions have benefited from these initiatives.

Evaluation and Outcomes

A NITI Aayog evaluation of PMKVY in October 2020 found that 94% of surveyed employers preferred hiring candidates trained under PMKVY, indicating high trust in the scheme's training quality. Additionally, 52% of placed candidates reported higher salaries or anticipated better earnings compared to their untrained peers.

A third-party impact evaluation by the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) revealed that 70.5% of surveyed candidates secured placements in their desired skill sectors. This high placement rate highlights the training programs' relevance and effectiveness in meeting industry demands. Similarly, a 2018 Tracer Study of ITI Graduates showed that 63.5% of ITI pass-outs gained employment, underscoring the employability enhancement achieved through these programs.

State-wise Training Data

A state-wise training data published by PIB in a study on skill training shows extensive reach and impact across regions. For example, Andhra Pradesh trained over 500,000 individuals under PMKVY and oriented more than 65,000 under NAPS. Maharashtra leads with over 1.2 million trained under PMKVY and 757,098 receiving on-the-job training under NAPS.

This extensive training has equipped the Indian workforce with relevant skills, enhancing their employability both domestically and internationally. NSDC-I's studies on global skill demand ensure that Indian workers meet international standards, further broadening their employment prospects.

The Way Forward                                            

Continuous efforts in skill development reflect a strategic approach to transforming India's human resources, fostering economic growth, and reducing unemployment.

As MSDE continues to expand its reach and refine its programs, the future looks promising for India's skilled workforce. Ongoing assessments and adaptations will be key to maintaining the relevance and effectiveness of these initiatives, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of the economy and society. 

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