Empowering Women: Government Launches Pilot Project in 27 Districts

The Ministries of Skill Development and Women & Child Development have launched a pilot project in 27 aspirational districts to empower women. The program, part of a nationwide campaign, includes training under PMKVY 4.0, career guidance, and financial literacy. Event highlighted the goal to increase female workforce participation.

New Delhi [India], August 28 (ANI): The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) conducted an orientation session for a pilot project aimed at empowering adolescent girls and women in 27 aspirational districts across nine states. This initiative marks the beginning of a strategic partnership between the two ministries, setting the foundation for a nationwide program.

Focusing on the barriers women face in the workforce, the event included capacity-building sessions for Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs) in preparation for the project's launch this year. The program aims to train approximately 4000 beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) 4.0, with an emphasis on non-traditional and high-demand jobs, especially in digital and soft skills.

The initiative offers comprehensive support like counseling, career guidance, financial and digital literacy, and job placement assistance. It also aims to connect participants to e-commerce platforms and sensitize them on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH). The project is expected to boost female enrollments in Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs).

Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary of MSDE, emphasized the program's role in enabling women to lead independent lives by equipping them with necessary skills. Anil Malik, Secretary of MWCD, echoed these sentiments, stating that the program supports Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of women-led development. He highlighted the aim to increase female workforce participation from 37% to 60%.

The project includes partnerships with local businesses for internships and apprenticeships, providing practical exposure to participants. Training will be conducted using existing PMKK, JSS centers, and other educational institutions, with transport allowance provided through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). The Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) will manage training modules, assessments, and other services.

(With inputs from agencies.)