India’s aim to bring skill development to underprivileged segments of the population gained traction through the Pradhan Mantri Dakshta Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi (PM-DAKSH) Yojana. Initiated by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, this scheme targets Scheduled Caste (SC), Other Backward Classes (OBC), Economically Backward Classes (EBC), Denotified tribes and Sanitation workers. This article explores the significance of the PM-DAKSH Scheme, its implementation, and initiatives related to skill development.
PM-DAKSH Scheme Budget Allocation
The government allocated Rs.44.79 crores and Rs.79.48 crores for the PM-DAKSH Yojana during 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively. To simplify access, the ministry introduced the PM-DAKSH Portal and PM-DAKSH Mobile App.
About the PM-DAKSH Scheme
Established in 2020-21, the scheme grants eligible individuals access to Short Term Training Programmes, Up-Skilling/Reskilling Programmes, Entrepreneurship Development Programmes, and Long Term Training Programmes. It is implemented by three corporations: National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC), National Backward Classes Finance & Development Corporation (NBCFDC), National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation (NSKFDC).
Eligibility and Implementation
The scheme primarily aids marginalized persons of SC, OBC, EBC, Denotified tribes, and Sanitation workers, including waste pickers, manual scavengers, transgenders, and similar categories. Over the past five years, about 2,73,152 people from the target groups received skill development training. The goal for 2021-22 is to extend this training to approximately 50,000 people.
Significance of the Scheme
The scheme has immense significance in economic upliftment of marginalized communities. It directly addresses the economic instability experienced by those with minimal assets by providing them with skill enhancement opportunities. It also assists rural artisans in adapting to advancing technologies and market requirements. Moreover, it empowers women by enabling them to gain income without compromising their familial responsibilities.
Related Skill Development Initiatives
Several other skill development initiatives run parallel to the PM-DAKSH Scheme. Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 3.0 was launched in 2021 by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) to provide over 300 skill courses to India’s youth. National Career Service Project, launched in 2015, offers free online career skills training. Other initiatives include Skills Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for Livelihood (SANKALP), Kaushalacharya Awards, Scheme for Higher Education Youth in Apprenticeship and Skills (SHREYAS), and Atmanirbhar Skilled Employee Employer Mapping (ASEEM).
Prior Questions in Relation to Skill Development
For an all-rounded understanding, it’s essential to consider previous questions on related topics. In 2017, a question regarding the ‘Recognition of Prior Learning Scheme’ focused on certifying skills acquired through traditional channels. In 2018, a question on Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana examined the scheme’s objectives, training components, and its alignment with the National Skill Qualification Framework.
