Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana- PMKVY Skill India Scheme

Launched in 2015, Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) is the flagship skill India scheme of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India. The PMKVY scheme is being implemented by the National Skills Development Corporation (NSDC).

Launched in 2015, Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) is the flagship skill India scheme of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India. The PMKVY scheme is being implemented by the National Skills Development Corporation (NSDC). Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana is a flagship skill development scheme launched by the Government of India with the aim of empowering youth by making them skilled, confident and job-ready. In today’s competitive world, education alone is not enough, and practical skills are equally important. The PMKVY scheme bridges this gap by providing industry-relevant training to unemployed youth and school or college dropouts, helping them build a better future. Under this scheme, candidates receive short-term training, skill certification, and financial support, making it easier for them to find employment or start their own work.

PMKVY focuses on improving employability across various sectors while encouraging financial independence. Over time, the scheme has evolved through different phases such as PMKVY 2.0, PMKVY 3.0 and PMKVY 4.0, with improved training standards, stronger industry links and digital learning support. The scheme is open to everyone but prioritises unemployed citizens of the country. The PMKVY courses are free, and candidates receive a skill certificate and placement assistance. Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana plays a crucial role in strengthening India’s workforce, reducing unemployment and promoting inclusive growth by turning skills into opportunities.

What is the PMKVY Scheme?

The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) is India's flagship skill development scheme, run by the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship. The PMKVY scheme is being implemented by the National Skills Development Corporation (NSDC). It aims to provide industry-relevant training to unemployed or underemployed youth for better livelihoods, covering costs, offering certification, financial rewards and placement help to boost employability and a skilled workforce for the country. It includes both fresh skilling and recognition of prior learning for experienced individuals. All the skills that are taught in the scheme focus on National Skills Qualification Framework alignment so that people become ready to face the market upon course completion. The youth is also taught soft skills, and all the courses have digital integration.

Objectives of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana aims to make Indian youth employable by providing them industry relevant skill training, increase the productivity of the existing workforce, reduce skill gap, promote entrepreneurship and enhance the economic development of the country. Let’s take a look at the objectives of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana.

1. Industry Relevant Skill Training

The PMKVY scheme aims to provide quality, industry-designed training to a large number of youths, so that they can get employment. It is open to Indian citizens aged 15 to 45 who are unemployed or underemployed. The skills taught are relevant to industry standards so that the learnings convert to employability.

2. Enhances Employability

The PMKVY scheme prepares youth for employment by teaching skills as per market demand and improving their job prospects. This automatically enhances employability and helps curb the problem of unemployment in the country, leading to economic growth. Also, this scheme gives rise to job creation in the market.

3. Bridging Skill Gap

The job market demands skills that yield results. At times, the skills of an individual are not updated as per the industry criteria, which makes them lose work-related opportunities. The PMKVY scheme helps bridge the skills gap between industry and workforce through practical teaching methodologies that prepare people to face the industry head-on.

4. Promotes Entrepreneurship

The PMKVY scheme aims to motivate youth to become entrepreneurs by providing them with the necessary skills and financial support. Initiatives have been taken to incorporate courses related to financial literacy, entrepreneurship and business fundamentals to develop business acumen in candidates.

5. Improves Productivity

PMKVY is designed to increase the productivity of the existing workforce and link skill training with the actual needs of the country. Through professional courses, the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana scheme increases overall economic output and efficiency in various sectors.

Eligibility Criteria of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)

To be eligible for the PMKVY scheme, candidates must be an Indian citizen aged 15-45 years, have an aadhaar card with a linked bank account, be unemployed or a school dropout and meet specific job role criteria set by sector skill councils for the training they choose. Special provisions exist for marginalized groups and specific geographic areas. Let’s take a look at eligibility criteria of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana.

How To Apply for Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)?

Application for PMKVY Kaushal yojana is open to everyone. To enroll for the scheme, candidates need to visit the official PMKVY to find the nearest training centre, select the course of interest, fill in the application form with personal and educational details and submit the required documents. Candidates are expected to have an Aadhaar-linked bank account and Aadhaar number for the application. Let’s take a look at how to apply for the PMKVY scheme.

1. Visit the Official Website or Find A Centre

The first step to enroll for the PMKVY scheme is to visit the official website of PMKVY or locate the nearest PMKVY training centre nearby. In case candidates are seeking to apply offline, they should only visit the training centre suggested to them to avoid confusion.

2. Register To the PMKVY Portal

On the PMKVY website, candidates need to register and create an account on the PMKVY portal, or log in directly by filling the credentials. It is advised to save the credentials generated during the registration for later use.

3. Choose A Skill Course

Candidates should choose a skill development course as per their choice and industry demand. They should take their time to research about their course before applying because it can’t be changed and in case a candidate changes their mind, they’ll have to go through a long process.

4. Fill the Application Form

After selecting the PMKVY course, candidates must fill in the details such as name, address, educational information and Aadhaar number. They should cross check their details before final submission to avoid chances of mistakes.

5. Upload Documents

Candidates are expected to attach scanned copies of their ID proof, address proof and educational certificates (if any) for verification of background. Failing to provide any of the mentioned certificates will lead to a failed application.

6. Attend Counselling and Interview Session

Some PMKVY training centres may conduct counselling or interview processes before the commencement of the PMKVY course. Candidates should attend those sessions because it will help them understand the course overview, outcome and requirements in detail.

7. Wait For Enrollment

Once selected, candidates will be enrolled in the chosen PMKVY course and informed about the training schedule. Candidates should wait for the given timeline because enrollments take time. They can check their enrollment on the official website.

Key Features of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)

The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) provides free courses along with industry-relevant skill training to youth. They also provide cash incentives for skill certification, recognition of prior learning and placement assistance to enable candidates to get employed or become entrepreneurs. Let’s take a look at the features of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana.

1. Free Training

The PMKVY training is totally free of cost. No fees are charged to prepare youth and school/college dropouts for employment. This has been done to make the courses accessible for candidates from all walks of life, especially marginalised communities who need financial assistance to support their ambitions.

2. Skill Certification

After completion of training, candidates get a recognized certificate, which is valid across the country. They can utilise the certificate to fetch work opportunities and get themselves placed at jobs. Skill certification is only provided to candidates who meet all the exam criteria.

3. Cash Incentives

Upon certification, candidates are given cash incentives, depending on the skill level. These incentives are generally given to meritorious candidates who have performed well so that they can use the money to nurture their careers or start a business.

4. Placement Assistance

After completing the PMKVY training, candidates are helped in finding jobs and employment fairs are organised to provide placement assistance to candidates so that they can utilise the knowledge gained through the course for career growth.

5. Industry Relevance Course

The PMKVY Training programmes are based on National Occupational Standards and Qualification Packs, which are in line with industry requirements. All the PMKVY courses are designed to meet industry standards so that candidates become job-ready after completion of their courses.

Benefits of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana(PMKVY)

The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana(PMKVY) offers many benefits to youth, such as free skill training, employable skill development, creating financial independence in youth, cash incentives and placement assistance to the youth, so that they can get better employment opportunities by learning industry-relevant skills and contribute to the economic development of the country. The scheme empowers youth from all walks of life, including women, SC, ST and OBC, leading to inclusive economic growth. Young people who want to start their own businesses also get support and guidance. The PMKVY Training is aligned to international standards along with current market demands to make the courses beneficial for the career growth of candidates.

• Free Skill Training- PMKVY provides free, government-funded skill training that equips youth with industry-relevant skills, improving employability and supporting better career and self-employment opportunities.
• Employable Skill Development- The PMKVY focuses on industry-relevant training that builds practical, job-ready skills, enhancing employability and helping candidates secure sustainable employment opportunities.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)- PMKVY recognizes existing skills through assessment and certification, helping experienced workers gain formal recognition, improved employability, and better income opportunities.
• Industry Alignment- PMKVY ensures training aligns with industry standards, equipping candidates with in-demand skills that meet employer needs and improve job placement outcomes.
• Cash Incentives and Placement Assistance- The PMKVY offers cash incentives and placement support, motivating learners to complete training and connect with employers for suitable job opportunities.
• Better Employment Opportunities- PMKVY enhances employability by providing certified skills, enabling candidates to access better jobs, higher income potential, and long-term career growth.

Major Phases of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana training scheme (2016-2026) aims at equipping Indian youth with industry-relevant skills that align with the National Skill Development Framework. In the past ten years, the scheme provided training to 1 crore+ youth, who benefited across sectors like AI, IoT, and manufacturing. Let’s take a look at the major phases of PMKVY(2016-2026).

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 1.0 (2015-16)

The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 1.0 was launched on July 15, 2015, on National Youth Day. It was a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. Its primary objective was to make youth employable through free and short-term training. During 2015-16, over 19.85 lakh youth were trained through this brief project. Let’s take a look at Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 1.0.

Impact and Outcome

The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 1.0 successfully trained and certified over 19 lakh individuals across various sectors and covered 375 job roles. A major impact of version 1.0 was the formalization of skills for workers in the unorganized sector. Over 6 lakh individuals were certified through the RPL process.

Main Components

The main components of PMKVY 1.0 included provisions for tracking placements to ensure the training led to fruitful employment upon completion of courses. It was designed to encourage training in specialized areas or premises, such as government bodies or corporate premises. The courses were tailored for specific job roles not defined under standard qualifications.

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 2.0 (2016-20)

The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 2.0 was the second phase of the skill development program launched by the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and implemented by the National Skill Development Corporation for the 2016-2020 period. It was designed to enhance the employability of Indian youth by providing industry-relevant skills training to one crore individuals with a total budget of ₹12,000 crore. It was primarily aimed at school and college dropouts, along with unemployed youth. The program reported significant participation, with 45% of candidates being women. Let’s take a look at the impact, outcome and main components of the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 2.0.

Impact and Outcome

Over 1.2 crore youth were trained under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 2.0. This phase enabled states to develop training programs tailored to local economic needs. It covered courses related to diverse sectors such as manufacturing, retail, IT-ITeS and healthcare.

Main Components

The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 3.0 program provided training to school/college dropouts or unemployed youth. It addressed specific training needs in specialized areas such as financial literacy, digital literacy and entrepreneurship.

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 3.0 (2020-22)

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 3.0 is the third phase of the scheme of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, launched in January 2021. It aimed at empowering youth by providing industry-relevant India skill reports across the country in the post-COVID-19 era. The third phase includes new components like 'Skill Hub Initiative' and 'Crash Course for COVID Warriors. Let’s take a look at the impact, outcome and main components of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 3.0.

Impact and Outcome

During the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 3.0, the program shifted from traditional training to a demand-based approach that focuses directly on job roles. The programme gave priority to future-ready skills and used online and digital training to reach more people, including COVID Warriors. It also helped recognize the skills of informal workers, improving their job opportunities and supported youth aged 15-45 and people impacted by the pandemic.

Main Components

The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 3.0 focused on providing 150-300 hours of training for unemployed youth and school dropouts in specialised courses. It assesses and certifies people who already have skills or work experience and offers short bridge courses if needed to match industry standards. It also supports training for specific job roles required by government departments, industries or emerging sectors with special skill needs.

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 (2022-Current)

The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 is running from FY 2022-2026. It aims to skill lakhs of youth in new-age courses like AI, Robotics, IoT and Drones to enhance the employability of the youth. It focuses on industry-aligned training along with relevant soft skills for the holistic development of young people. So far, 7.5 lakh youth have been trained by Dec 2025 across 34 states and 670 districts. Let’s take a look at the impact, outcome and main components of PMKVY 4.0.

Impact and Outcome

PMKVY 4.0 is witnessing a 15% rise in mean monthly income for individuals trained under Short Term Training. Recognition of Prior Learning certification resulted in a 19% higher income compared to non-certified peers. Also, approximately 70.5% of surveyed candidates received placement in their respective skill sectors.

Main Components

Version 4.0 of PMKVY conducts training in specific job roles or locations that are not covered under standard NSQF guidelines, often involving government bodies, corporates, or industry bodies. It majorly focuses on integrating vocational training with general education, making skills available within existing education or skill infrastructure.

Conclusion

The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana(PMKVY) is a flagship skill development scheme launched by the Government of India with the aim of empowering youth by making them skilled, confident and job-ready. The programme focuses on providing free courses,cash incentives, skill certificates and placement assistance for the overall economic development of the youth of the country. Priority is given to unemployed or underemployed youngsters, though the portal accepts applications from diverse backgrounds. It has two prominent phases known which have provided 150-300 hours of training in specialized courses such as financial literacy, digital literacy and entrepreneurship, along with training 1.2 million youngsters in the country.

Frequently Asked Questions- FAQ’s