(a) whether the Government has formulated any innovative scheme for skill development of youths of BPL category especially those belonging to minority communities in the country and if so, the details thereof; and
(b) the training programmes organized so far under the scheme and the number of persons/youths trained, State/UT-wise?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF MINORITY AFFAIRS (SHRI MUKHTAR ABBAS NAQVI)
(a) to(b): Ministry of Minority Affairs implements following schemes/programmes for skill development of poor minorities:
1. Seekho aur Kamao (Learn & Earn),is a placement linked skill development scheme, being implemented since 2013-14, for poor minority youths including BPL category who are between 14-35 years of age and minimum Class V qualified. The scheme aims at upgrading the skills in modern/traditional trades depending upon their qualification, present economic trends and market potential, which can earn them a suitable employment or make them suitably skilled to go for self-employment. The scheme ensures placements of minimum 75% trainees, out of which at least 50% placement is in organized sector. The Scheme is implemented through selected Project Implementing Agencies. The State/UT-wise and year-wise details of training programmes organized and the trainees san- ctioned are at Annexure.
2. A new scheme “USTTAD (Upgrading the Skills and Training in Traditional Arts/ Crafts for Development)” has been approved during 2014-15 to preserve rich heritage of traditional arts/ crafts of minorities and build capacity of poor traditional artisans/craftsmen. The trained traditional master artisans/ craftsmen may be involved in training of minority youths inclu- ding BPL category who are between 14-35 years of age and minimum Class-V qualified, in traditional arts / crafts, particularly dying arts/crafts. In addition, the scheme aims to establish linkages of traditional arts/ crafts with the national and international market ensure dignity of labour. Ministry intends to operationalize the scheme during current financial year.
3. A new integrated education and livelihood scheme called `Nai Manzil` has been announced by the Government for launching this year to enable poor minority youths including BPL category,who do not have a formal school-leaving certificate to obtain one and develop skills to find better employment. Ministry has taken action to finalize the same.