Why in news?
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has highlighted progress under the PM‑DAKSH scheme, which provides free skill training to marginalised groups. The scheme aims to enhance employability and economic empowerment of Scheduled Castes (SC), Other Backward Classes (OBC), De‑Notified Tribes (DNT), Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and sanitation workers.
Background
Launched in 2020‑21, the Pradhan Mantri Dakshata Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi (PM‑DAKSH) scheme is a central sector programme. It addresses historical exclusion by offering quality skill training and entrepreneurship development to disadvantaged communities. Participants aged 18–45 years receive training aligned with the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF).
Components
- Short‑term training: Courses of 200–600 hours are offered in trades such as hospitality, beauty and wellness, plumbing, IT and electronics. Trainees receive certification from sector skill councils.
- Up‑skilling and re‑skilling: Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) programmes help sanitation workers and artisans upgrade their skills, often in partnership with municipal bodies.
- Entrepreneurship development: Hand‑holding support and credit linkages enable trained candidates to start micro‑enterprises.
Eligibility and benefits
- Target groups: SC, OBC and DNT communities, EWS and sanitation workers including Safai Karamcharis and waste pickers.
- Income criteria: No income limit for SC and Safai Karamcharis; OBC and EWS applicants must have an annual family income below ₹3 lakh.
- Stipend: Non‑residential trainees receive ₹1,500 per month (₹1,000 for OBC/EWS/DNT). Residential training provides free boarding and lodging. An additional ₹500 per month is given to Safai Mitra trainees.
Impact
- Enhancing employability: Training equips participants with market‑relevant skills, improving their chances of securing jobs or self‑employment.
- Empowering women: Many beneficiaries are women who gain confidence and financial independence through vocational training.
- Promoting dignity of labour: Up‑skilling programmes for sanitation workers acknowledge their contribution and improve working conditions.
Source: The Hindu