Restructuring Skill India Programme

• 11 Feb 2025

Source: PIB 

Why in News? 

The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation and restructuring of the Skill India Programme (SIP) by integrating 3 flagship schemes- Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 (PMKVY 4.0), Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS), and Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) Scheme into a composite Central Sector Scheme till March 2026.  

What is the Skill India Programme? 

• About: 
  • The Skill India Programme (SIP) is a skill development initiative launched in 2015 under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. 
  • Over 2.27 crore people have benefited so far from these schemes including rural youth, women, and marginalized communities. 
  • All the courses and certifications under the Skill India Program are aligned with the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) and integrated with DigiLocker & National Credit Framework (NCrF), ensuring formal recognition and seamless transition into employment and higher education. 
• Objective: 
  • The programme aimed to train 40 crore individuals by 2022 across various skill sectors through key initiatives, including: 
    • National Skill Development Mission (NSDM) 
    • National Policy for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (2015) 
    • Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) 
    • Skill Loan Scheme 
• Key Components of Restructured SIP: 
  • Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 (PMKVY 4.0): 
    • It provides short-term training, reskilling, and upskilling. 
    • 400+ new courses introduced in emerging technologies like AI, 5G, cybersecurity, green hydrogen, and drone technology. 
    • Focus on international mobility and on-the-job training (OJT) by recognition of prior learning and equipping Indian workers with globally recognized skills. 
    • It aligns with PM Vishwakarma, PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, National Green Hydrogen Mission, and NAL JAL Mitra, ensuring cross-sector impact. 
    • Target Beneficiaries: Individuals aged 15-59 years. 
  • Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS): 
    • PM-NAPS aims to enhance apprenticeship training across industries. 
    • Provides 25% of the stipend (up to Rs 1,500 per apprentice per month) through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for apprentices. 
    • Expands apprenticeship opportunities in AI, robotics, blockchain, green energy, Industry 4.0. 
    • Special focus on small establishments, MSMEs, aspirational districts, and the North-East Region. 
    • Target Beneficiaries: Individuals aged 14 to 35 years. 
  • Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) Scheme: 
    • The JSS scheme is a community-driven vocational training initiative aimed at empowering women, rural youth, and economically weaker sections in the 15-45 age group through low-cost, flexible skilling programs. 
    • It is linked with initiatives like PM JANMAN and Understanding of Lifelong Learning for All in Society (ULLAS) for inclusive skilling. 

Government Initiatives Related to Skill Development 

• SANKALP Scheme 
• TEJAS Skilling Project 
• Model Skill Loan Scheme 

UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ) 

Prelims 

Q. With reference to Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, consider the following statements: (2018)

1. It is the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Labour and Employment. 
2. It, among other things, will also impart training in soft skills, entrepreneurship, and financial and digital literacy. 
3. It aims to align the competencies of the unregulated workforce of the country to the National Skill Qualification Framework. 

Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 

(a) 1 and 3 only 

(b) 2 only 

(c) 2 and 3 only 

(d) 1, 2 and 3 

Ans: (c)