The Pradhan Mantri Dakshata Aur Kushalata Sampanna Hitgrahi (PM-DAKSH) Yojana stands as a beacon of empowerment, aiming to uplift marginalized communities through skill development. Launched in the financial year 2020-21, this Central Sector Scheme, orchestrated by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, has made significant strides in its mission to enhance the competency levels of its target groups.
Key Objectives of PM-DAKSH:
The primary objective of the PM-DAKSH Yojana is to elevate the competency levels of specific target groups, including Scheduled Castes (SCs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), Economically Backward Classes (EBCs), Denotified Tribes (DNTs), Safai Karamcharis, and waste pickers. The overarching goal is to make these individuals employable in both self-employment and wage-employment sectors, fostering their socio-economic development.
Progress and Achievements:
In the initial years of implementation, the PM-DAKSH Yojana has showcased commendable achievements. In the fiscal year 2020-21, approximately 32,097 trainees underwent training, with 24,652 successfully placed in employment. A total expenditure of Rs. 44.79 crore was incurred during this period. In 2021-22, the scheme trained 42,002 individuals, with 31,033 securing employment, and an expenditure of Rs. 68.22 crore. The momentum continued in 2022-23, with 33,021 trainees, of whom 21,552 found gainful employment, utilizing Rs. 14.94 crore.
Cumulative Achievements (2020-21 to 2022-23):
- Training imparted to 1,07,120 individuals
- 77,237 individuals placed in gainful employment
- Total expenditure of Rs. 127.95 crore
Future Projections (2023-24 to 2025-26):
The trajectory of success is set to continue, with projected plans to train 1,69,300 individuals from 2023-24 to 2025-26. This includes 53,900, 56,450, and 58,950 trainees in the years 2023, 2024, and 2025, respectively. The estimated expenditure for these trainings is Rs. 286.42 crore.
Operational Framework Enhancements:
In 2023-24, 28 Government and 84 private training institutes have been impanelled for the scheme’s implementation. Notably, a transparent process was adopted for allotting States, Districts, and job roles, covering 411 Districts, including 82 Aspirational Districts. The practice of impanelling institutes every year has been replaced with a minimum three-year empanelment, contingent on satisfactory progress and compliance with the scheme’s guidelines.
Innovations and Inclusivity:
For the first time, a transparent process was adopted in allotting States, Districts, and job roles. This resulted in the inclusion of 411 Districts, encompassing 82 Aspirational Districts. Latest job roles were assigned to training institutes, covering 32 sectors, providing diverse opportunities for trainees.
Empowering Women:
Out of the 55,000-plus applicants on the PM-DAKSH portal, more than 37,000 are female applicants. This underscores the scheme’s success in reaching and empowering women, a crucial target group for training.
Financial Support and Incentives:
- The scheme operates on a cost-free model for trainees.
- Stipends are provided, with Rs. 1,500 per month for SCs and Safai Karamcharis, and Rs. 1,000 per month for OBCs, EBCs, and DNTs.
- Wage compensation is offered based on the training program, ensuring financial support for participants.
The Pradhan Mantri Dakshata Aur Kushalata Sampanna Hitgrahi (PM-DAKSH) Yojana exemplifies the Indian government’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development. By equipping individuals from marginalized communities with essential skills, the scheme not only enhances their employability but also contributes to the broader socio-economic upliftment. As it forges ahead, the PM-DAKSH Yojana continues to be a catalyst for positive change, empowering individuals and fostering a more equitable society.
