New Delhi, October 22 (H.S.): In a significant administrative decision aimed at empowering socially and economically disadvantaged sections, sanitation workers and marginalised communities, the Pradhan Mantri Dakshta Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi (PM-DAKSH) scheme has been merged with the flagship Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), implemented by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), with effect from 2024-25.

According to the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, all job roles offered under PM-DAKSH were already being sourced through the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) portal, which also covers training programmes under PMKVY. The integration has been undertaken to eliminate duplication of efforts and make skill training more streamlined and effective by bringing beneficiaries onto a common platform.

Launched in 2020-21 as a Central Sector Scheme, PM-DAKSH was designed to provide free skill training to Scheduled Castes (SCs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), sanitation workers and waste pickers. Its primary objective was to enhance their employability, promote self-reliance and expand opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.

The scheme was implemented through three major corporations under the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment: the National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation, the National Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation, and the National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation.

Strict conditions were prescribed for institutions empanelled to provide training under the scheme. Following the completion of training, these institutions were required to ensure employment for at least 70 per cent of the trainees, either through salaried jobs or self-employment. Institutions that failed to meet the prescribed placement target faced a financial penalty, with the final, third instalment of their training fee—amounting to 30 per cent of the total cost—being withheld.

The three corporations also extended loans and financial assistance to trained beneficiaries to help them establish their own businesses and pursue self-employment.

Beyond its economic benefits, the scheme has also contributed to positive social change, particularly among women and disadvantaged communities. Beneficiaries have reportedly experienced greater confidence, enhanced self-esteem and improved social recognition. Most continue to apply the skills acquired through training and remain optimistic about achieving sustained growth in their income over the long term.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar