The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has published its Year-End Review for 2023, unveiling impressive growth in the number of training institutes and seating capacity. The ministry has reported a significant increase in the total number of institutes, with 4,621 new establishments added since 2014, bringing the total to 14,953 by 2022—a growth of 47.77%. This expansion has resulted in over 25 lakh seats being made available for the 2021-2023 sessions, leading to a 25% increase in total seating capacity.
Furthermore, the ministry has established 17,175 new trainer seats, marking a growth of 49.8%. A total of 223 courses have been introduced, covering various areas such as CTS, CITS, STT, and Advanced Diploma courses. The establishment of National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) in 2015 has also contributed to the skill development landscape, with 33 NSTIs currently in operation, 19 of which are exclusively for women.
The ministry has showcased its adaptability through the Flexi MoU Scheme, signing 13 MoUs under the revised guidelines by November 30, 2022. Notable collaborations include an MoU between the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) and the Directorate General of Training (DGT) to strengthen linkages between school education and vocational education/skilling, as well as an MoU between DGT and NIESBUD for a five-day online Training of Trainers Programme on “Employability, Entrepreneurship, and Life Skills” for ITI instructors.
In the realm of vocational training, 152 NSQF-compliant trades under the Craftsmen Training Scheme have been introduced to provide a skilled workforce to industries. Additionally, 21 NSTIs have been designated as NIESBUD centres for entrepreneurship courses, and 33 NSTIs are now NIOS and IGNOU centres for certifications in higher education and degree courses.
The ministry has placed a strong emphasis on New Age Courses, particularly by enhancing women’s participation through fee relaxation for tuition and exams for women candidates under CITS/CTS for the session 2023-24. The introduction of drone-related courses in ITIs through the PMKVY Skill Hub Initiative reflects the ministry’s commitment to upskilling and reskilling.
Under the Skill India Mission, the flagship Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) has played a pivotal role in providing short-term skilling opportunities for Indian youth since its inception in 2015. The ministry reports that as of December 13, 2023, close to 1.40 crore candidates have been trained under PMKVY. The launch of PMKVY 4.0 in the Union Budget 2023-24 aims to upskill youths, particularly in Industry 4.0, AI, robotics, mechatronics, IoT, and drones.
Other initiatives, such as the PM Vishwakarma Yojana for artisans, the Skill India Digital platform, and the approval of 146 future skills qualifications, underscore the ministry’s dedication to enhancing skill development and fostering entrepreneurship.
With the establishment of 748 District Skill Committees and projects targeting diverse sectors, such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Fellowship and Skill Certification for Retiring Soldiers, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship is making significant strides in the field of skill development. Additionally, the India Institute of Skills in Kanpur has formed partnerships to empower local youth for the aerospace and defence sector, as highlighted in the Year-End Review 2023.
In conclusion, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has demonstrated remarkable progress in expanding training institutes and seating capacity, introducing new courses, and fostering entrepreneurship, thereby solidifying India’s position as a hub for skilled talent.
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