PM VIKAS scheme targets skill development, financial inclusion for minority communities
The Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS) scheme, launched by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, is aimed at promoting skill development, education, and economic empowerment among six notified minority communities.
This Central Sector scheme integrates five previous initiatives—‘Seekho Aur Kamao,’ ‘Nai Manzil,’ ‘Nai Roshni,’ ‘USTTAD,’ and ‘Hamari Dharohar’—to provide comprehensive support.
The scheme focuses on both traditional and non-traditional sectors, enhancing employability through skilling and training programs. It places special emphasis on promoting women’s leadership and entrepreneurship, encouraging economic self-reliance within minority communities.
Educational support is offered through collaboration with the National Institute of Open Schooling. Infrastructure development initiatives are undertaken under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram.
Additionally, the scheme facilitates access to credit through the National Minorities Development & Finance Corporation to promote financial inclusion.
To strengthen support for artisans engaged in traditional crafts, the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) has been designated as a knowledge partner. The EPCH assists by providing marketing linkages, developing training modules, enhancing branding and visual merchandising, organizing awareness campaigns during exhibitions, and encouraging artisans to form producer group companies.
A key component of the PM VIKAS scheme is job placement. Implementation partners are required to ensure employment for at least 75 percent of the candidates trained under skill development programs aligned with the National Skills Qualifications Framework.
