Continued lockdowns and restrictions induced by the pandemic have forced schools and other institutions to shift to virtual modes of training. This has led to swamped skill development outcomes in the youth, particularly in the rural areas and for those belonging to communities of scheduled castes and scheduled tribes. Recognising the urgent need to revamp the skills of individuals to achieve better development outcomes, the Union Budget 2022-23 focuses on providing the required boost and purposeful attention for skill needs and employment generation. For this, the National Skill Qualification Framework will be modified to suit the current industrial dynamic needs.

The finance minister also announced the launch of a Digital Ecosystem for Skilling and Livelihood, or DESH-Stack, e portal. This virtual platform will empower individuals to learn, unlearn and further hone their skillsets. Furthermore, drone technology will be incorporated to enhance skills among the youth. Startups are to be established that can facilitate ‘Drone Shakti’ through different applications and explore its potential in the services sector. 

It was further noted that select industrial training institutes would commence the required courses for skilling soon. Additionally, to promote crucial and critical thinking skills and initiate creative thinking, 750 virtual labs in science and mathematics, and 75 skilling e-labs for simulated learning environments will be set up in the upcoming financial year. 

This article was authored by Srijata Deb