Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), launched in 2015, is a flagship scheme initiated by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE). This program is administered by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) with cooperative support from training partners. The primary objective is to engage the youth in skill training, with an emphasis on enhancing productivity and aligning the training and certification processes to the country’s needs.
Evolution and Successes of PMKVY
Given the remarkable success of the initial phase of PMKVY, where more than 19 lakh students were trained compared to the 24 lakh target, the project was relaunched as PMKVY 2.0 (2016-2020). With a sizable funding allocation of Rs. 12000 Crores, the second phase aims to train 10 million youth by 2020.
Key Aspects of the Program
The PMKVY encompasses three crucial components: Short Term Training, Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), and Special Projects.
Under Short Term Training, those who have dropped out of school or college or are unemployed are offered training as per the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF).
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assesses and certifies individuals possessing a specific skill set or having prior learning experiences, awarding them grades according to the NSQF.
Special Projects focus on skill training in unique areas and on the premises of government bodies and corporates, benefiting vulnerable and marginalized societal groups.
Training Partners: Their Role and Responsibilities
Training Partners (TPs) play a pivotal role in organizing Kaushal and Rozgar Melas every six months, aiding in the allocation of placement opportunities to certified trainees.
Analysis of PMKVY’s Impact
Between its relaunch and January 24, 2019, of the 4.06 million candidates that enrolled in PMKVY, about 3.73 million completed the course. Though impressive, it is essential to note that nearly 30% of the enrollees during the same period have not yet received certification. This fact reflects the necessity for more profound basic education systems in schools and colleges.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Enrolled Candidates | 4.06 million |
| Completed Training | 3.73 million |
| Uncertified Candidates | ~30% |
Placement Status Under PMKVY
Placement tracking is a mandatory aspect under PMKVY. As of October 26, 2018, 1.94 lakh candidates obtained certification, and among them, only 55% secured employment in various sectors, demonstrating the low employability level under PMKVY.
Future Directions for PMKVY
Moving forward, the government must ensure high-quality secondary education to adequately prepare the youth for skills provided under the scheme. Promotion of vocational education in schools, making Training Partners accountable for the training and placement opportunities under the scheme, and encouraging more industries to participate for placement are some potential strategies. As approximately one million youth enter the workforce every month, increasing the number of individuals receiving training under the scheme is integral to its continued success.