India’s vocational education and skill development ecosystem received a major boost through the SANKALP Scheme. The full form of the SANKALP Scheme is Skill Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for Livelihood Promotion. Introduced under the National Skill Development Mission (NSDM), this flagship initiative focuses on improving employability, strengthening training infrastructure, and creating industry-relevant skill programs across India.
The SANKALP Scheme launch date was 19 January 2018, and the initiative was launched by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) with financial support from the World Bank. The scheme aims to bridge the gap between industry requirements and workforce skills while ensuring equal opportunities for marginalised communities, women, and rural youth. Read on to know more about SANKALP scheme.
What is SANKALP scheme?
The Skill Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for Livelihood Promotion (SANKALP) initiative by the Ministry of Skill Development is funded through a World Bank loan. It aims to enhance both the quality and reach of short-term skill training by strengthening institutions, improving market linkages, and promoting the inclusion of marginalized groups. Launched on January 19, 2018, the SANKALP scheme is set to run until March 20, 2023. It serves as a support program for various skill training initiatives, focusing on quality improvement, institutional capacity building, and providing opportunities for underserved communities. The project’s progress and outcomes are monitored using the Results Framework and Disbursement Linked Indicators (DLIs) jointly developed by the Ministry of Skill Development and the World Bank.
Eligibility for the Sankalp scheme
To enroll under the SANKALP Scheme, applicants must fulfill certain eligibility conditions established by the government. Eligibility requirements as as follows:
-Applicant must be an Indian citizen
-Minimum age should be 18 years
-Basic educational qualification is required
-Women and men both can apply
-SC/ST candidates and persons with disabilities are encouraged
-Applicants interested in vocational or industry-based training are eligible
The scheme particularly focuses on empowering economically weaker and socially marginalised communities through employability-focused training programs.
Features of the SANKALP scheme
The SANKALP Scheme introduces several modern reforms to improve India’s vocational training ecosystem. Major features of SANKALP Scheme are below:
1. Industry-oriented skill training
Training programs are designed according to current industry requirements to improve employment opportunities.
2. Inclusive development
The scheme supports women, rural youth, SC/ST communities, and differently-abled individuals.
3. Institutional strengthening
SANKALP improves the quality of training institutions and assessment systems across states.
4. Public-private partnership
The government collaborates with industries and private training providers for better workforce development.
5. Digital monitoring system
The Skill Development Management System (SDMS) helps track enrollment, certification, and placement records.
Required documents to apply for the SANKALP scheme
To apply for the SANKALP (Skills Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for Livelihood Promotion) Scheme, applicants need to provide a set of documents for verification and processing. These typically include:
- Aadhar card: As proof of identity and residency.
- Educational qualification certificates: To validate the applicant’s educational background.
- Proof of age: Birth certificate, Aadhaar card, or other government-issued IDs.
- Bank account details: Bank passbook or cancelled cheque for direct transfer of benefits.
- Caste certificate (if applicable): For applicants from reserved categories.
- Photographs: Passport-sized recent photos.
- Income certificate (if required): To assess financial eligibility.
Components of the SANKALP programme
The SANKALP programme comprises key components focused on improving skill development quality, strengthening institutions, enhancing employability, promoting inclusivity, and establishing robust monitoring and evaluation systems across India.
- Centres of Excellence (CoE): The establishment of centres of Excellence is a key component of SANKALP. These centers serve as hubs for specialised training in sectors critical to economic development, such as information technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and more.
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): SANKALP facilitates the Recognition of Prior Learning, acknowledging, and certifying the skills acquired through informal means. This component allows individuals with prior experience to receive formal recognition, enhancing their employability.
- Skill Development Management System (SDMS): SDMS is a digital platform integral to the SANKALP Programme. It serves as a comprehensive system for managing and monitoring various aspects of skill development, including enrolment, assessment, certification, and tracking the progress of participants.
- Kaushal and Rozgar mela: To bridge the gap between skilled individuals and potential employers, SANKALP organises Kaushal and Rozgar Melas. These events bring together job seekers and employers, facilitating recruitment and creating a platform for showcasing the skills of trained individuals.
Interventions under the Sankalp scheme
The SANKALP scheme is structured into several sub-missions, each focusing on a specific area of development under the overarching program. Key components include:
1. Building capacity and decentralising authority to amplify impact:
This involves initiatives such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Fellowship (MGNF), Adarsh Gram Skill Camp, Skill India Portal (SIP), and Capacity Building of State Skill Development Missions (SSDM), among others, aimed at strengthening institutional capabilities and empowering local authorities.
2. Enhancing market relevance and quality:
SANKALP works to improve the quality and employability of graduates by providing access to high-standard, market-oriented skill training nationwide. Key initiatives include redesigning the training of trainers and assessors, forming a committee for standardising training content, and appointing student heritage ambassadors.
3. Boosting inclusion and improving access:
The program promotes gender equity and workplace inclusivity by implementing a gender action plan to increase female participation in the workforce. It also provides training on gender sensitisation and the prevention of sexual harassment at work.
Functions of SANKALP programme
The SANKALP programme functions to enhance skill development quality, improve employability, strengthen institutions, promote inclusivity, ensure market-relevant training, and establish effective monitoring and evaluation systems nationwide.
- Identifying skill gaps: The SANKALP Programme actively engages in research and analysis to identify prevalent skill gaps in various sectors of the economy. By understanding the specific needs of industries, the programme tailors its initiatives to address the most pressing challenges in skill development.
- Designing an industry-relevant curriculum: To ensure the relevance and effectiveness of the training provided, SANKALP collaborates with industry experts to design curriculum modules. These modules are crafted to align with the evolving demands of the job market, incorporating the latest technologies and best practices.
- Establishing centres of excellence: SANKALP focuses on establishing centres of excellence in strategic sectors. These centres serve as hubs for specialised training, offering state-of-the-art facilities and expert instructors to provide participants with in-depth knowledge and practical skills.
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): The programme facilitates the Recognition of Prior Learning, acknowledging the skills and competencies individuals have acquired through informal means. This function enhances inclusivity by recognising and certifying the skills of those who may not have followed traditional educational paths.
- Skill Development Management System (SDMS): SDMS is a pivotal tool for the effective implementation of the SANKALP Programme. It functions as a digital platform for managing the entire skill development process, from enrolment and assessment to certification and tracking the progress of participants.
- Organising Kaushal and Rozgar Melas: SANKALP plays a proactive role in connecting skilled individuals with potential employers through Kaushal and Rozgar Melas. These events serve as platforms for networking, recruitment, and showcasing the talents of trained individuals to prospective employers.
- Monitoring and evaluation: The programme incorporates a robust monitoring and evaluation system to assess the impact of its initiatives. Regular assessments help in refining and optimising training programs, ensuring that they remain effective and aligned with the evolving needs of the industry.
Benefits of SANKALP programme
The SANKALP Scheme plays a significant role in strengthening India’s workforce and improving employability. Major benefits of SANKALP Scheme include:
-Improves job readiness
-Enhances vocational education quality
-Supports marginalised communities
-Encourages industry partnerships
-Promotes women empowerment
-Provides market-oriented skills
-Increases employment opportunities
-Strengthens India’s economic growth
Importance of SANKALP scheme in India’s economy
- Helps improve skill development and vocational training across India to create a more employable workforce.
- Supports industry-relevant training programs that match changing market and employment demands.
- Encourages youth employment by enhancing technical and practical job skills.
- Strengthens state skill development missions and training institutions through better infrastructure and funding support.
- Promotes entrepreneurship and self-employment opportunities in rural and urban areas.
- Contributes to economic growth by improving workforce productivity and industrial efficiency.
- Supports the government’s long-term vision of reducing unemployment and building a skilled labour force for manufacturing, services, and emerging industries.
How to apply for Sankalp scheme?
To apply for the SANKALP Scheme, follow these steps:
- Visit the official portal: Access the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) website or the designated portal for the scheme.
- Register online: Create an account by providing basic details like name, contact information, and Aadhaar number.
- Select a training provider: Choose an approved training provider offering courses under the SANKALP scheme based on your skills and interests.
- Submit required documents: Upload necessary documents such as Aadhaar card, educational certificates, and photographs.
- Attend counseling: Some regions may require an interview or counseling session.
- Wait for approval: After verification, you will receive confirmation to begin your training.
Challenges faced by the SANKALP scheme
- Limited awareness in rural and remote areas reduces participation among eligible candidates and training institutions.
- Skill training quality may vary across centres due to differences in infrastructure, trainers, and implementation standards.
- Industry alignment challenges can affect employment opportunities after training completion.
- Delays in funding disbursement and administrative approvals may impact project execution and training schedules.
- Monitoring and tracking large-scale skill development programs across multiple states can be difficult.
- Some trainees may face difficulties in accessing digital learning resources and technology-based training platforms.
- Employment opportunities after training may vary depending on regional economic conditions and industry demand.
Impact and future prospects
The SANKALP Programme has made significant strides in addressing the skills gap and promoting employability across India. By focusing on the quality of training, inclusivity, and industry collaboration, the initiative has contributed to the empowerment of individuals and the overall economic growth of the nation.
Looking ahead, the SANKALP Programme is poised to play a pivotal role in the evolving landscape of skills development. As industries continue to transform, the programme is expected to adapt and introduce innovative strategies, ensuring that the workforce remains adept, competitive, and ready to meet the demands of a dynamic global economy.
Some popular schemes in India
India offers a variety of popular schemes across sectors, including skill development, health, education, and finance, aimed at empowering citizens, promoting inclusivity, and supporting economic growth and social welfare.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the SANKALP Programme stands as a beacon of India's commitment to nurturing a skilled and empowered workforce. By providing avenues for skill development, fostering partnerships, and promoting inclusivity, SANKALP is a catalyst for change, paving the way for a future where every individual has the opportunity to realise their potential and contribute meaningfully to the nation's progress.
Financial initiatives like loan against property and access to competitive loan against property interest rates further support individuals in financing their education, training, or entrepreneurial goals, complementing the mission of the SANKALP programme.
