Maharashtra gets skill development dept to help youth find jobs

The Maharashtra government on Tuesday decided to set up an independent department for skill development and entrepreneurship, by merging the existing employment and self-employment department, which was formed in 1997.

To enhance the employability skills of youth, the Maharashtra government on Tuesday decided to set up an independent department for skill development and entrepreneurship, by merging the existing employment and self-employment department, which was formed in 1997.

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Principal secretary SS Sandhu has been appointed to head the new department, which will shape up along the lines of a plan the Centre had announced last July to make the youth more employable. 65% of the state’s population is below the age of 35.

The department will not only launch various programmes to improve skills of youths, but also coordinate with industries to train them. The department is also expected to mobilise financial sources to encourage young prospective entrepreneurs.

The state is planning to train youths through public-private and public-public partnerships, in collaboration with educational institutions and corporate entities.

“We are chalking out comprehensive programmes, which will be rolled out in the next few months. This is one of the most ambitious programmes and it is close to chief minister Devendra Fadnavis’ heart. We will ensure the results are visible,” said an officer at Mantralaya.