PM-DAKSH, the Centre’s skill development scheme for disadvantaged communities, has recorded low placement outcomes between 2021 and 2024. Data placed in the Lok Sabha show that less than half of the trained candidates secured employment or self-employment, despite a scheme norm requiring at least 70% placement by training institutes. The scheme has now been merged with the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) from 2024-25 onwards.
Scheme Objective and Target Groups
PM-DAKSH, or Pradhan Mantri Dakshata Aur Kushalata Sampanna Hitgrahi Yojana, was launched in 2020-21 as a Central Sector Scheme. It aims to provide skill training through quality institutions so that candidates from vulnerable communities can find employment or start livelihoods. The target groups include Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes, Economically Weaker Sections, and De-notified Tribes, including Safai Karamcharis and waste pickers.
Placement Norms and Training Data
Under the scheme, training institutes are expected to ensure employment for at least 70% of trained candidates after short-term courses. If they fail, 30% of the training cost per candidate is forfeited. Between 2021 and 2024, about 1.5 lakh candidates were trained, but only 44% received job opportunities. This indicates gap between training coverage and labour market absorption.
Performance of Implementing Corporations
The scheme is implemented through three corporations under the relevant department:
- National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC)
- National Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation (NBCFDC)
- National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation (NSKFDC)
NSFDC placed 49.8% of trained candidates, while NBCFDC placed 48.9%. NSKFDC recorded the weakest outcome, with only 23% placement. In some States, including Rajasthan, Tripura, and Jharkhand, placement under NSFDC remained below 40%.
Regional Gaps and Policy Implications
The data also show uneven implementation across States. Under NSKFDC, 16 out of 25 States trained no candidates in 2023-24. The weak placement record raises questions about training quality, employer linkage, and monitoring of outcomes. The merger with PMKVY may be intended to streamline skill delivery and improve coordination, but placement effectiveness will remain a key measure of success.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026