Features of the Skill Development Initiative Scheme
- The Skill Development Initiative Scheme is a 100% centrally sponsored scheme.
- Demand-driven short-term training courses based on Modular Employable Skills have been designed in consultation with industry.
- The Central Government facilitates and promotes training, while State Governments, the private sector, and industry provide the training.
- Optimum utilisation of existing infrastructure to make training cost-effective.
- Courses are available for persons having completed the 5th standard and onwards.
- Flexible delivery mechanisms (part-time, weekends, full-time) to suit the needs of various target groups.
- Different programme levels (Foundation as well as skill upgradation) to meet the demands of various target groups.
- The services of existing or retired faculty or guest faculty are utilised.
- Existing skills of persons can also be tested and certified under this scheme.
- Training is provided by registered Vocational Training Providers (VTPs) under the Government, private sector, and industrial establishments.
- Reimbursement of training cost at ₹30.00 / ₹27.50 per person per hour to Vocational Training Providers (VTPs).
- Skills are tested by independent assessing bodies, including industry organisations such as FICCI and CII, which are not involved in training delivery, ensuring impartial assessment.
- Certification is by the National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT), recognised nationally and internationally for gainful employment.
- During the XI Plan period (2007–2012), against an approved outlay of ₹550 crore, ₹407 crore was spent, and 13.67 lakh persons were trained or directly tested under the scheme. The Cabinet Committee on Skill Development approved the continuation of SDIS for the XII Plan period with certain changes on 13.08.2013.
- The online implementation of the Skill Development Initiative Scheme (SDIS) through the web portal has been operational since 1st January 2012.
