(FREE) UPSC Current Affairs 2024 PDF

(GIST OF KURUKSHETRA) Government Initiatives in Promoting Skill Development and Entrepreneurship

(DECEMBER-2024)

Government Initiatives in Promoting Skill Development and Entrepreneurship

Introduction

India grapples with a notable gap between the demand and supply of skilled human resources. To tackle this issue, the Government of India, via the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), has launched a variety of initiatives aimed at enhancing workers' skills and nurturing entrepreneurship. This article outlines the government's efforts, spotlighting skilling programs, ecosystem enhancement, and the promotion of entrepreneurship to establish a workforce prepared for the future.

Skill Development Initiatives

(i) Role of MSDE and Affiliated Entities

Mandate: Harmonize skill development efforts, narrowing demand-supply discrepancies, establishing technical and vocational training structures, and encouraging innovation.

Vision 2025 Aspirations:

Unleash human capital by igniting a productivity boost.
Generate desirable employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Attain personal economic benefits and stimulate overall economic expansion.

Key Organizations Supporting MSDE:

National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC): Offers accredited skilling, upskilling, reskilling, hands-on training, and global mobility.
Sector Skill Councils (37), ITIs (15,000+), and NSTIs (23): Work together under the Directorate General of Training (DGT).
National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) & National Skill Development Fund (NSDF): Back training and funding projects.

(ii) International Skilling Partnerships

Case Study – Israel:

Training for over 10,000 workers in fields such as construction and healthcare.
Collaboration with Israel's Population Immigration and Border Authority (PIBA) for skill accreditation, cultural acclimatization, and job placement.

(iii) Signature Programs

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY): Special projects such as PM-JANMAN target vulnerable tribal populations in partnership with TRIFED.
STRIVE Project: Focuses on skill development and mentorship for trainees in ITIs and NSTIs.

Initiatives in Entrepreneurial Promotion

(i) Cultivating the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

Key Emphasis Areas:

Backing aspiring and current entrepreneurs across rural, urban, and disadvantaged areas.
Specific initiatives promoting women entrepreneurship and financial inclusion. Streamlined regulatory changes for improved business operations.

Entrepreneurship-Industry Partnerships:

Launch incubation hubs in ITIs, NSTIs, and higher learning institutions.
Collaboration with key industries such as electronics, electric vehicles, and renewable energy.

Training and Education Reforms

Incorporate entrepreneurship into school and university curricula to nurture entrepreneurial mindsets.
Annual hackathons to inspire entrepreneurial ambitions.
Revise training programs to concentrate on practical skills like financial literacy, market analysis, and critical thinking.

Major Programs and Achievements

(i) Distinguished Projects:

SANKALP: Concentrates on entrepreneurship among SCs, STs, and lesser-privileged groups. PM DAKSH Yojana: Offers complimentary skill training with job placement support to SCs, OBCs, and Safai Karamcharis.
Sky-6 Cities Pilot Initiative: Encourages entrepreneurship in holy cities like Varanasi, Haridwar, and Puri, yielding 11,897 trained participants and 5,014 new businesses.
Entrepreneurship – Cum – Skilled Development Initiatives: Emphasize future roles like LED repair specialists and solar PV installers.

Technological Integration and Future Aspirations

(i) Utilizing Advanced Technologies:

Embracing AI, IoT, and blockchain to provide training and mentorship services. Establishing a national digital platform for entrepreneurs to engage with peers and advisors.

(ii) Vision for 2025

Smooth convergence between skill programs and credit financing.
Advocate for digital platforms like Skill India Digital Hub to access global freelance opportunities.
Fortify partnerships with grassroots entrepreneurs for cluster-oriented development.

Conclusion

The Government of India's diverse initiatives aim to craft a workforce ready for the future while fostering an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. Programs like PMKVY, SANKALP, and PM DAKSH showcase a dedication to equipping marginalized groups, women, and rural communities with skills. By harnessing technology, encouraging public-private partnerships, and weaving entrepreneurship into education, the government envisions a resilient, self-sufficient India, poised to meet challenges and catalyze economic growth.