https://sansad.in/getFile/annex/242/Au125.pdf?source=pqars
Introduction
The role of skill development in economic growth and employment generation has been widely acknowledged. The Government of India, through the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, has launched multiple initiatives to enhance vocational training and skill development. This literature review examines the measures taken to establish, manage, and promote skill training institutes in Andhra Pradesh, along with an analysis of skill mapping and sectoral workforce requirements.
Government Initiatives for Skill Development
The Indian government has implemented two major flagship schemes:
● Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY): This scheme facilitates short-term training and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for youth across 221 job roles under 35 Sector Skill Councils. By November 2016, nearly 19.84 lakh candidates had been trained. The PMKVY 2016-20 framework allocates 25% of its total funding to states, with Andhra Pradesh receiving Rs. 94.74 crores under the State Engagement Component.
● Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendra (PMKK): Aimed at establishing Model Skill Centres in each district, PMKK provides training through accredited centers. By January 2017, 458 PMKKs were allocated across 441 districts.
Additionally, long-term skill training is imparted through a network of 13,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), which play a crucial role in vocational education and skill enhancement.
Skill Mapping and Workforce Requirements
A report by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) in 2013 estimated the demand-supply gap in Andhra Pradesh to be approximately 11.9 lakh during 2017-22. The sector-wise skill gap is as follows:
● Construction: Highest demand with 807,000 skilled, 864,000 semi-skilled, and 1,291,000 minimally skilled workers required.
● Tourism & Hospitality: 582,000 skilled, 262,000 semi-skilled, and 175,000 minimally skilled workers required.
● Banking & Financial Services: 390,000 skilled workforce demand.
● IT & ITES: 258,000 skilled, 27,000 semi-skilled, and 5,000 minimally skilled workforce demand.
● Declining Employment in Agriculture: A significant negative skill gap was noted in agriculture and allied activities, indicating a shift in workforce demand away from this sector.
Financial Allocation and Utilization
Budget allocations for Andhra Pradesh’s skill development have been substantial. The implementation of PMKVY and PMKK ensures funding for skill centers. However, data on fund utilization and program effectiveness remains an area for further research.
Conclusion
The literature on skill training initiatives in Andhra Pradesh highlights significant government efforts toward workforce development. While programs like PMKVY and PMKK aim to bridge the skill gap, further analysis is required to assess their long-term impact, fund utilization, and effectiveness in meeting sector-specific demands. Addressing the employment shift from agriculture to industries and services will be crucial for future policy planning.
Future Research Directions
Further studies should focus on:
● Effectiveness of PMKVY and PMKK in increasing employment rates.
● Real-time tracking of skill development fund utilization.
● Identifying barriers to vocational training uptake in rural areas.
● Industry participation in curriculum design for skill development programs.
This review provides a foundation for understanding the role of skill training institutes in Andhra Pradesh and their impact on employment generation.
Diya Gupta
Research Intern (Media)