Marking the completion of three years of inclusive growth and development under the current government, Rajiv Pratap Rudy, Minister of State (I/C), Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), has stated that MSDE has trained more than 1.17 crore aspirants in various skills through MSDE schemes and programs since the inception of Skill India. This is apart from the numbers contributed through skill development schemes and initiatives under other Central Ministries.

Speaking on the occasion, Rudy said, "Skill India is a silent revolution that is underway and is a joint investment that the government along with the private partners, is making for the future growth of the country. It is a path that needs to be tread very carefully since it involves the future of our youth. What we sow today is what we will reap tomorrow. We have hence taken the first two years, to set our base right and align the skill ecosystem to national standards of skill qualification."

Rudy shared that Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), which was launched on July 15, 2015 by the Prime Minister, alone has witnessed more than 26.5 lakh people getting trained in skills of their choice till date, of which 50 per cent are women candidates.

"It is good to see that more and more women candidates are coming forward to take up skills. Last year women participation under PMKVY was 40%. I am elated to see that we have an equal male female ratio this year cumulatively."

He further added that, "The industry/private sector will only partner when they see quality workforce coming out from Skill India. We are seeing that transition happen gradually. More and more corporate are partnering with us on different levels whether is it on engaging with apprentices, extending infrastructure support, contribution through CSR funds and hiring of resources."  

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