Strengthening Skills for Inclusive Growth
The PM Vikas Scheme aims to address skill gaps among minority communities by providing practical training aligned with industry requirements. The programme focuses on enabling sustainable employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, thereby supporting inclusive economic growth.
NIFTEM-K’s involvement brings specialised expertise in food technology and entrepreneurship to the initiative. The institute’s role as a PIA underscores the government’s emphasis on leveraging premier educational institutions to deliver outcome-oriented skill development programmes.
Training Over 2,100 Beneficiaries Across Four States
Under the project, NIFTEM-K will train a total of 2,110 beneficiaries from minority communities across seven locations in four states—Jharkhand, Bihar, Punjab, and Haryana. The training will be conducted under three specific job roles: Multi Skill Technician (Food Processing), Millet Products Processor, and Assistant Baking Technician.
These courses have been selected to align with emerging opportunities in the food processing sector, which is recognised as a key driver of rural employment and value addition in agriculture.
NSQF-Compliant and Industry-Recognised Training
All training programmes under the project will be compliant with the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) and delivered through courses approved by the National Council of Vocational Education and Training (NCVET). This ensures standardised curriculum delivery and nationwide recognition of skills.
Beneficiaries who successfully complete the training will receive certification from institutions approved by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) or NCVET, enhancing their credibility and employability in the job market.
Focus on Employment and Livelihood Linkages
Beyond training, the PM Vikas Scheme emphasises placement and livelihood support. NIFTEM-K will facilitate employment opportunities for eligible candidates in wage employment, self-employment, or apprenticeship models, including placements in the organised sector.
The project also aims to provide market and credit linkages to help beneficiaries integrate into the economic mainstream. This holistic approach is intended to ensure that skill training translates into sustainable income opportunities.
Rollout Scheduled for January 2026
According to officials, the training programme is expected to be rolled out in January 2026. Preparatory activities, including mobilisation of beneficiaries and coordination with local stakeholders, are already underway.
The initiative aligns with the broader objectives of the Ministry of Minority Affairs to promote education, skill development, and economic empowerment among minority communities across the country.
Role of NIFTEM-K in National Skill Ecosystem
NIFTEM-K’s selection as a PIA highlights its growing role in the national skill development ecosystem. As an Institute of National Importance, it brings academic rigour, industry linkage, and sector-specific expertise to government-led capacity-building programmes.
