GS2 – Governance
Context
A new PM-VIKAS Training Centre was inaugurated in Tilak Nagar, Delhi, under the Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM-VIKAS) scheme to promote skills and entrepreneurship among minority communities.
About the Scheme:
- Launched: 2022 (under 15th Finance Commission Cycle: 2021–26)
- Objective:
Promote livelihood generation, social inclusion, and cultural heritage preservation among minority groups. - Coverage:
Targets around 9 lakh beneficiaries from six notified minority communities. - Core Components:
- Skilling
- Entrepreneurship
- Education
- Infrastructure Development
- Implementation Framework:
In convergence with Skill India Mission, delivered via the Skill India Portal by certified PIAs. - Financial Support:
Linked with NMDFC and Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts for loans and market access.
Schemes Merged into PM-VIKAS:
| Earlier Scheme | Focus |
| Seekho aur Kamao | Skilling for placement |
| USTTAD | Training in traditional crafts |
| Hamari Dharohar | Cultural preservation |
| Nai Roshni | Leadership training for women |
| Nai Manzil | Education and skilling for dropouts |
Other Related Welfare Schemes:
- Garib Nawaz Employment Scheme – Placement-linked skilling
- Begum Hazrat Mahal Scholarship – For minority girls (classes 9–12)
- Hunar Haat – Market platform for minority artisans
- Nai Udaan – UPSC/PSC/SSC financial support
- Jiyo Parsi – Population support for Parsis
- NMDFC Loans – Concessional credit for businesses
- SPEMM – Quality education for madrasas
- PM Jan Vikas Karyakram – Community infrastructure development