Mumbai: In a first-of-its-kind initiative, Mumbai’s suburban district has launched the ‘Saksham Skill Survey’, an AI-powered skill census aimed at studying the skills of youth aged 18–40 and enhancing their employability. Launched by Maharashtra’s Minister of Information Technology & Cultural Affairs, Ashish Shelar, the survey will cover 55,000 households in Bandra West, Maharashtra.
The survey represents a pioneering step towards using artificial intelligence (AI) and geographic information system (GIS) mapping for hyperlocal skill assessment and workforce planning.
AI-Powered Door-to-Door Survey
The Saksham Skill Survey will be conducted by Sapio Analytics over the next few months. Enumerators will carry out AI-enabled door-to-door surveys, collecting information on:
• Educational qualifications
• Skill interests
• Training needs for employment
Based on this data, candidates will be provided with a curated list of government-approved institutions and relevant courses to enhance their employability.
Goals of the Survey
Minister Ashish Shelar outlined the objectives of the survey:
• Train 15,000 candidates by 2027
• Ensure 5,000 youth become self-reliant through employment or entrepreneurship
• Establish India’s first decentralized, AI-based Workforce Intelligence model
• Facilitate long-term skill and employment planning at the local level
The survey will also help identify skills gaps and guide policy for youth employment programs across the state.
Hyperlocal Skill Mapping with AI and GIS
The survey will use advanced AI technology and Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping, dividing the H-West ward into hyperlocal regions. This will ensure precise skill mapping and better-targeted training programs.
The AI system will analyze collected data to identify trends, skill shortages, and opportunities, creating a data-driven roadmap for workforce development.
Implementation and Timeline
• Coverage: 55,000 households in Bandra West, Mumbai
• Conducted by: Sapio Analytics
• Duration: Over the next couple of months
• Expected Outcome: List of skill-oriented courses for candidates and enhanced employment readiness
Ashish Shelar stated that the survey will be a transformative tool for local skill development, providing a model that could potentially be replicated across India.
Significance for Youth and Employment
The Saksham Skill Survey aims to bridge the gap between education and employability, making youth more competitive in the job market. By linking candidates with relevant training programs and employment opportunities, the initiative is expected to:
• Encourage entrepreneurship among youth
• Reduce unemployment in suburban Mumbai
• Support data-driven workforce planning for local government
• Create a scalable model for future AI-based skill surveys across India
