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.