The courses we currently offer under various NSDC sector skill councils are –
Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) is the flagship skill development scheme of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India. Launched in 2015, PMKVY aims to provide industry-relevant skill training to youth across the country to make them employable and self-reliant. It is implemented through the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), and is aligned with the vision of creating a skilled workforce to meet the demands of both the domestic and international job markets.
The primary objective of PMKVY is to encourage and recognize the learning acquired by individuals through both formal and informal channels. The scheme provides financial rewards to successful candidates after assessment and certification, and covers a wide range of sectors and job roles. It targets youth, school dropouts, and individuals with limited education, particularly those from marginalized and economically weaker sections.
PMKVY has been implemented in phases. The initial phase, PMKVY 1.0 (2015–2016), focused on short-term training, recognition of prior learning (RPL), and special projects. In PMKVY 2.0 (2016–2020), the scheme was scaled up with more rigorous quality standards, inclusion of placement tracking, third-party monitoring, and the introduction of Training of Trainers (ToT) initiatives. The latest iteration, PMKVY 3.0 (2021–2026), emphasizes demand-driven skill training, integration with local skilling needs, and convergence with other government schemes such as MUDRA loans and entrepreneurship development.
The training provided under PMKVY covers over 250 job roles across 30+ sectors, including IT-ITES, Electronics, Construction, Healthcare, Beauty and Wellness, Apparel, Automotive, and Retail. Training partners affiliated with NSDC set up accredited training centers equipped with skilled faculty, labs, and learning materials. The curriculum is based on National Occupational Standards (NOS) developed by Sector Skill Councils (SSCs), ensuring industry-relevant competencies.
PMKVY also gives priority to Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), allowing individuals with prior experience or informal training to be assessed and certified. RPL not only boosts the confidence of workers in the unorganized sector but also improves their employability and access to formal job markets.
One of the key strengths of PMKVY is its focus on placement and entrepreneurship support. Training partners are required to provide placement assistance to at least 70% of successfully certified candidates. They also support self-employment initiatives by connecting trainees with financial institutions, credit linkages, and schemes like MUDRA or Startup India.
Monitoring and transparency are ensured through biometric attendance, real-time dashboards, regular inspections, and third-party audits. The scheme also ensures social inclusion by reserving seats for women, SC/ST candidates, and people with disabilities.
In essence, PMKVY serves as a comprehensive platform for India's skill development ecosystem. It bridges the gap between unemployed youth and the industry’s demand for skilled labor, thereby contributing to national economic growth. By providing free training, certification, and career support, PMKVY empowers individuals to take charge of their futures and participate productively in the economy.
“Seekho Aur Kamao”, officially known as “Skill Development Initiative for Minorities”, is a central sector scheme launched in 2013 by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India. The core objective of the scheme is to upgrade the skills of youth belonging to minority communities—Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Parsis, and Jains—in various traditional and modern job roles, so they can gain employment or become self-reliant through entrepreneurship.
The name “Seekho Aur Kamao” (Learn and Earn) itself emphasizes the scheme’s mission: enabling young individuals from underprivileged minority backgrounds to acquire skills that directly lead to gainful employment or income-generating opportunities. The target age group is 14 to 45 years, with special focus on school dropouts, women, and youth from low-income households.
Under this scheme, the government provides funding support to skill training providers—NGOs, educational institutions, and vocational training centers—empaneled with the Ministry of Minority Affairs. These organizations must have demonstrated experience in running skill development programs and are required to have adequate infrastructure, trained instructors, and placement networks.
Training is offered in a wide variety of trades across both traditional sectors (like handicrafts, embroidery, tailoring, carpentry, etc.) and modern industries (such as IT, retail, hospitality, electrical work, and healthcare). The curriculum is designed in alignment with industry standards and is often certified through NSDC (National Skill Development Corporation) or other approved assessment bodies. It ensures that learners are not only trained in job-specific skills but also provided soft skills, digital literacy, and basic English communication training.
In addition to classroom instruction, the scheme emphasizes on-the-job training (OJT) and internships to expose candidates to real work environments. Training providers are required to organize job fairs, placement drives, and connect trained candidates with companies or markets. In some cases, assistance is also provided for self-employment, including guidance on how to start micro-enterprises and how to access financial aid or subsidies through government or banking channels.
The scheme is completely free for the beneficiaries. Each participant receives training materials, toolkits (where applicable), uniforms, ID cards, and in some cases, a stipend for attending training. At the end of the training period, candidates undergo assessments and receive a government-recognized skill certificate, which significantly boosts their employability.
Monitoring and transparency are integral to the program. All training centers are geo-tagged and monitored via a centralized MIS portal. Aadhaar-based biometric attendance, third-party monitoring, video records of training sessions, and random audits are part of the compliance framework.
Since its inception, Seekho Aur Kamao has benefited hundreds of thousands of minority youth across India. It has helped bridge the economic and educational gap for marginalized communities by providing a platform to enter the formal job sector or establish small businesses. The scheme is also seen as a tool for social empowerment and inclusion, reducing unemployment and preventing exploitation.
By integrating skill development with economic self-sufficiency, Seekho Aur Kamao plays a vital role in enhancing the socio-economic status of India’s minority communities.
Hunar Se Rozgar Tak (HSRT) is a skill development initiative launched by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, in 2009–10. It was conceptualized to address two key national challenges: youth unemployment and the growing demand for skilled manpower in the tourism and hospitality industry. The phrase "Hunar Se Rozgar Tak" literally translates to “From Skill to Employment,” reflecting the scheme’s direct approach to employability through hands-on, practical training.
The tourism sector in India is one of the country’s largest service industries and a significant employment generator. However, the industry has historically faced a shortage of adequately skilled workers, especially in front-end roles like hospitality, housekeeping, food and beverage service, tour guiding, and kitchen operations. HSRT was created to bridge this gap by offering short-term, job-oriented courses to youth from economically weaker sections.
The target group for this scheme is unemployed youth aged 18 to 28, particularly those who are school dropouts, from low-income families, or residing in rural and semi-urban areas. The courses under HSRT are conducted free of cost, with no fee charged to trainees, making it highly accessible to disadvantaged segments.
Initially, the training programs under HSRT were run through the India Tourism Offices and hotel management institutes under the National Council for Hotel Management & Catering Technology (NCHMCT), such as the Institutes of Hotel Management (IHMs), Food Craft Institutes (FCIs), and other recognized private hospitality training institutes. Over time, the program has been decentralized and extended to various empaneled institutions, including public-private partnerships, NGOs, and industry partners.
Courses typically range from 6 to 8 weeks in duration and cover practical, entry-level skills in trades like:
· Food Production (Cooking)
· Food and Beverage Service
· Housekeeping Utility
· Bakery & Patisserie
· Front Office Operations
· Tour Guiding
Each course follows a standardized curriculum, developed by the Ministry in consultation with industry professionals. Training is hands-on and designed to simulate real workplace scenarios. After completion, the candidates are assessed and awarded certificates recognized by the Ministry of Tourism, which improves their job prospects in hotels, restaurants, travel companies, resorts, and even on cruise ships.
Incentives like free uniforms, training kits, and sometimes mealsare provided. Select high-performing students may be assisted with placement opportunities or supported to start their own small-scale ventures like catering units, travel agencies, or tour services.
An important feature of HSRT is the flexibility it offers in terms of location and language. Training is conducted in local dialects, making it easier for rural youth to participate, and is often hosted in community spaces or vocational centers close to where the candidates live.
Over the years, thousands of candidates have completed training under HSRT, many of whom have gone on to work in branded hotels, restaurants, or have become self-employed. The scheme has helped address workforce gaps in India’s growing hospitality sector while also contributing to the livelihood security of marginalized youth.
HSRT stands out for its practical orientation, minimal barriers to entry, and strong linkage to employment, making it one of the most impactful yet low-cost skilling programs supported by the Government of India.
DDU-GKY, or Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana, is a flagship program of the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), Government of India, aimed at transforming rural youth into an economically independent and globally employable workforce. Launched on 25th September 2014, the birth anniversary of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya, the scheme is part of the larger National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) and focuses on placement-linked skill development.
India is home to the world’s largest youth population, a significant percentage of which resides in rural areas with limited employment opportunities. DDU-GKY addresses this challenge by providing market-driven skill training and guaranteed placement to rural youth, particularly those from Below Poverty Line (BPL) families, Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), women, minorities, and differently-abled groups. The scheme targets youth aged 15–35 years(extended to 45 years for certain categories).
Unlike conventional skilling schemes, DDU-GKY is uniquely placement-focused. It mandates that a minimum of 70% of the trained candidates must be placed in regular wage employment, with a formal offer letter and proof of salary within 3 months of training completion. To achieve this, training providers are required to have strong industry partnerships and post-placement support mechanisms.
Training is delivered through Project Implementing Agencies (PIAs), which include NGOs, educational institutions, private companies, and government training centers. These agencies must meet strict eligibility and infrastructure requirements and are selected via a transparent process. Training centers must be equipped with smart classrooms, biometric attendance systems, CCTV monitoring, and high-speed internet, ensuring quality and accountability.
Courses offered under DDU-GKY span over 250 job roles across 40+ sectors, such as Retail, Apparel, Hospitality, Healthcare, Construction, Automotive, Electronics, and IT. The curriculum is aligned with National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) standards and is approved by respective Sector Skill Councils (SSCs). Soft skills, spoken English, computer literacy, financial literacy, and life skills are also integrated into the training.
The training is completely free for beneficiaries. Candidates are also provided free accommodation (if needed), meals, transport, uniforms, training kits, and in many cases, a stipend. Post-placement support includes migration assistance, counseling, and follow-up for up to 12 months to ensure employment retention.
One of the hallmark features of DDU-GKY is its social inclusion approach. A significant percentage of seats are reserved for SC, ST, and women candidates. States are also encouraged to align DDU-GKY projects with local demands, industries, and migration patterns to improve outcomes.
The scheme leverages technology and rigorous monitoring tools. A centralized Kaushal Panjee (skill register)is used for candidate tracking. Performance of training providers is monitored through Management Information System (MIS) portals, random audits, third-party evaluations, and mobile app-based verification.
DDU-GKY has successfully skilled and placed lakhs of rural youth across India, improving their quality of life and contributing to the national economy. It stands as a powerful tool for inclusive rural development, fostering dignity, financial independence, and a sense of purpose among India’s rural population.
The Uttar Pradesh Skill Development Mission (UPSDM) is a flagship initiative launched by the Government of Uttar Pradesh to enhance the employability and livelihood opportunities of the state's youth by equipping them with industry-relevant skills. Established in 2013, UPSDM operates under the Department of Vocational Education and Skill Development and is designed to unify and streamline various skill training programs offered under different central and state schemes into a single, coordinated framework.
Uttar Pradesh, being India’s most populous state, faces a massive challenge in terms of unemployment and underemployment, especially among youth from rural, low-income, and marginalized communities. UPSDM was conceived as a state-level counterpart to national programs like PMKVY and DDU-GKY, aiming to empower the local workforce and link skill training with sustainable employment or self-employment outcomes.
· Provide free, quality skill development training to youth aged 14 to 35 years
· Enhance job readiness by aligning training with the needs of local and national industries
· Create a scalable, outcome-based skill delivery ecosystem with credible training partners
· Integrate certification, placement, and entrepreneurship support into every training program
Training under UPSDM is delivered through a network of empaneled Training Providers (TPs) and Training Centers (TCs). These include NGOs, private institutions, and public-sector entities. All centers must meet strict quality norms in terms of infrastructure, trainers, courseware, and compliance before being approved.
The courses offered are aligned with the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) and span over 40 high-demand sectors, such as:
· Electronics and Hardware
· Apparel and Sewing
· Retail and Sales
· Construction and Plumbing
· IT/ITES and Computer Hardware
· Beauty & Wellness
· Healthcare and Paramedical
· Automotive and Repair Services
The typical course duration ranges from 240 to 720 hours, depending on the skill level. In addition to domain-specific training, UPSDM emphasizes soft skills, basic IT literacy, and workplace readiness, making trainees more holistic job candidates.
Upon successful completion, candidates receive a government-recognized certificate issued by either a Sector Skill Council (SSC)or an approved certification body. This certificate enhances their employability across industries.
One of UPSDM’s strengths is its focus on post-training outcomes. Training partners are mandated to ensure a minimum 70% placement rateeither through formal jobs or supported self-employment. The Mission supports placement drives, job fairs, and employer engagement initiatives to build strong linkages between trainees and recruiters.
UPSDM also encourages self-employment by connecting trained youth with bank credit, subsidies, and entrepreneurship guidanceunder schemes like MUDRA and Stand-Up India. Toolkits, working capital support, and mentorship are provided to candidates interested in starting micro-enterprises.
UPSDM has adopted a technology-driven monitoring system to ensure transparency and quality. A centralized Skill Development Management System (SDMS) tracks every candidate’s journey from enrollment to placement. Aadhaar-enabled biometric attendance, video surveillance at training centers, and regular third-party assessments are integral parts of the quality assurance framework.
Through targeted interventions, public-private partnerships, and a robust policy framework, UPSDM has already trained lakhs of youth across the state, helping bridge the gap between job seekers and employers. It is regarded as one of India’s more comprehensive and efficiently managed state skill missions.
The Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) scheme is a pioneering initiative by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, aimed at creating a skilled workforce for the electronics and IT hardware sector. It is part of India’s broader agenda of building a globally competitive electronics manufacturing ecosystem under programs like Make in India, Digital India, and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
India is one of the world’s largest consumers of electronic products, yet historically relied heavily on imports for components and devices. Recognizing this imbalance, the government launched the ESDM scheme to boost domestic electronics production and to generate employment by skilling youth in electronics-related job roles. The scheme was first introduced around 2012 under the National Policy on Electronics and has evolved with strong alignment to industry demands.
· Bridge the demand-supply gap of skilled manpower in electronics and hardware sectors
· Create multi-level skilled workersincluding technicians, supervisors, and operators
· Provide affordable, modular, and standards-aligned training
· Strengthen India’s position as a global manufacturing hub for electronics
The ESDM scheme targets:
· Unemployed youth aged 18 to 35 years
· School dropouts
· Graduates and diploma holdersfrom non-technical backgrounds seeking career entry into electronics
· Rural and economically weaker sectionsof society
It is especially beneficial for candidates from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, where access to technical training is limited. The scheme also supports the inclusion of women, differently-abled individuals, and SC/ST candidates through reserved quotas and outreach efforts.
Training under the ESDM scheme is delivered through a network of Authorized Training Partners (ATPs), which may include private institutions, industry associations, technical universities, and NGOs. The training is modular and aligned with the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF). Course content is approved by Electronics Sector Skills Council of India (ESSCI) and MeitY.
Key job roles covered under the scheme include:
· Mobile Phone Hardware Repair Technician
· Solar Panel Installation Technician
· CCTV Installation Specialist
· Embedded System Programmer
· PCB Assembly Operator
· LED Light Repair Technician
· Drone Hardware Support Technician
Each course includes both classroom and hands-on lab training, delivered through simulators, circuit testing boards, soldering stations, and diagnostic tools. Students learn to troubleshoot real-world electronic devices, ensuring job readiness from day one.
After completion of the course and assessments, candidates receive nationally recognized certificates, which are validated by ESSCI or MeitY-approved bodies. These certificates are accepted by major employers in electronics manufacturing, telecom, renewable energy, and service sectors.
ESDM emphasizes employment outcomes and encourages training centers to provide placement support, including organizing interviews, resume building, and job fairs. It also supports entrepreneurship by helping trainees start service centers or repair businesses with basic toolkits and mentorship.
The ESDM training is heavily subsidized, and in many cases, completely free for the trainee. The scheme operates on a cost-sharing model between the central government, state governments, and training partners. Some state governments (like Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka) also co-implement the scheme under regional skill missions.
The ESDM scheme has trained thousands of youth across India, contributing to the expansion of India’s skilled electronics workforce. It plays a critical role in supporting Digital Indiagoals and preparing the country’s human capital for Industry 4.0.
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