Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai, while chairing a high-level review meeting of the Skill Development Department at the Ministry Mahanadi Bhawan in Nava Raipur, issued clear directives that skill development programmes in the state must be directly linked to employment and self-employment opportunities. He emphasised that the government’s objective goes beyond merely offering training—it is to empower the youth to become self-reliant, capable, and future-ready.
District-Wise Progress Reviewed for FY 2025–26
During the meeting, the Chief Minister reviewed district-wise achievements, budget allocations, and training programmes under several schemes, including the Mukhyamantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0, and Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana. He underlined the need for continuous innovation and effective action plans to ensure that every training initiative translates into a sustainable livelihood.
Focus on Rehabilitation and Inclusive Skill Training
Special attention was given to the ‘Niyad Nella Nar’ scheme, which provides training to surrendered Maoists. So far, 549 youths have been trained, while 382 are currently undergoing training at rehabilitation centres. The Chief Minister also assessed the course-specific training provided to Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) under the PM Janman Yojana, aiming for their social and economic integration.
Tech-Enabled Monitoring and Quality Training
Officials informed the Chief Minister that from July 1, 2025, trainee attendance is being recorded using a face-scanning system under the Chief Minister Skill Development Scheme. This move has significantly improved transparency and real-time monitoring.
In addition, the department has signed MoUs with reputed private organisations, including Naandi Foundation and Mahindra & Mahindra, to ensure quality-driven training modules are delivered to the youth of Chhattisgarh.
‘Kaushal Tihar 2025’ to Scout Talent for World Stage
An ambitious plan for organizing ‘Kaushal Tihar 2025’ was presented during the meeting. This state-level skill competition aims to raise awareness and encourage participation in vocational training. The event will be held in two phases—district and state levels—and will include two age groups: below 22 years and above 22 years.
Participants will compete in 10 key trades:
- Automobile Technology
- Bricklaying
- Renewable Energy
- Health and Social Care
- Plumbing and Heating
- Electrical Installations
- Electronics Field Technician
- Computer & Mobile Phone Technician
- Graphic Design Technology/Desktop Publishing
- Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
Two winners from each trade and age group at the district level will qualify for the state-level competition, where top performers will receive prizes, trophies, and employment opportunities. These winners will be groomed for India Skills 2025 and may eventually represent the country in the World Skills 2026 to be held in Shanghai, China.
Emphasis on Self-Reliance and Sustainable Livelihoods
Mr. Sai stressed that skill development initiatives must be synchronised with the goal of livelihood generation and should contribute to the self-reliance of the youth. He instructed officials to ensure that training programmes are regularly updated to match market demand and that career pathways are built into the training system.
Senior Officials Attend the Review Meeting
The meeting was attended by Forest and Skill Development Minister Mr. Kedar Kashyap, Chief Secretary Mr. Amitabh Jain, Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. Subodh Kumar Singh, Skill Development Department Secretary Mr. S. Bharatidasan, and CEO of Chhattisgarh State Skill Development Agency (CSDA) Mr. Vijay Dayaram, along with other senior departmental officials.
