The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has reported significant progress under India’s skill development initiatives, with over 1.64 crore candidates trained under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana and more than 56.08 lakh apprentices engaged since 2016.
The figures were released as part of the government’s review of skill development achievements over the past 12 years.
Key Highlights
Indicator Achievement
PMKVY Candidates Trained 1.64+ crore
Apprentices Engaged Since 2016 56.08+ lakh
ITIs in 2014 9,776
ITIs Currently 13,888+
Apprenticeship Programme Expansion
The apprenticeship ecosystem has expanded significantly since 2016.
According to the ministry:
More than 56 lakh apprentices have been engaged.
The programme combines classroom instruction with practical workplace training.
Multiple sectors participate through collaboration between employers and training institutions.
Apprenticeship training is considered a key bridge between vocational education and employment opportunities.
Growth in Vocational Training Infrastructure
India’s vocational training infrastructure has expanded considerably over the past decade.
Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs)
Year Number of ITIs
2014 9,776
2026 13,888+
This increase reflects efforts to improve access to technical and vocational education across the country.
Skill Development Ecosystem
Training is delivered through various institutions, including:
Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana centres
National Skill Training Institutes
Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendras
Jan Shikshan Sansthan
Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs)
These institutions provide vocational and industry-oriented training across a wide range of sectors.
Indian Institutes of Skills
The government has also established three specialized skill development institutions:
Indian Institute of Skills Gandhinagar
Indian Institute of Skills Mumbai
Indian Institute of Skills Kanpur
These institutes focus on advanced technical skills and industry-aligned training programs.
Skill India Completes 12 Years
The broader Skill India Mission initiative has now completed 12 years.
During this period, the government has introduced:
Vocational training reforms
Expanded apprenticeship programs
Industry-linked skill courses
Enhanced collaboration with state governments
Increased focus on employability and workforce readiness
Why It Matters
The expansion of skill development programmes is intended to:
Improve employability among youth.
Address industry skill shortages.
Support manufacturing and service sector growth.
Enhance workforce productivity.
Promote formal apprenticeship-based learning.
Conclusion
Government data indicates substantial growth in India’s skill development ecosystem, with over 1.64 crore individuals trained under PMKVY and more than 56 lakh apprentices engaged since 2016. The expansion of ITIs, skill centres, and specialized institutes reflects continued efforts to strengthen vocational education and workforce development across the country.
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