In a groundbreaking collaboration aimed at empowering marginalised communities, the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) are all set to provide vocational training to tribal and underprivileged youth across multiple states.
As per an official statement, the strategic partnership will initially focus on skilling youths from tribal and marginalised communities in Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh, with plans to expand to other regions in the future.
Through jointly conducted short-term courses, participants will receive industry-recognised certifications via the Skill India Digital Hub platform, enhancing their employability prospects.
Upon successful completion of the training programmes, the skilled youth will have access to employment opportunities within India. Furthermore, they will be eligible for international job placements facilitated by NSDC International, a subsidiary of NSDC specializing in global mobility and placement arrangements.
As part of the collaboration, ISKCON will establish a Culinary School to empower tribal youth from regions such as Palghar and Gadchiroli in Maharashtra, as well as neighboring states like Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh said the statement.
Notably, the trained individuals will have the opportunity to be employed at the upcoming Maha Kumbh Kitchen in Prayagraj in 2025, with provisions for international mobility facilitated in partnership with NSDC International.
“The primary objective of this collaboration is to bolster local economies through the establishment of ECO villages and training centers, with a keen focus on providing skill development opportunities to tribal youth, women, and other marginalized communities” it said.
Two additional projects will be implemented under the partnership, each designed to empower local youth and foster sustainable development.
The first project aims to replicate the success of the Govardhan Eco Village (GEV) in Palghar, Maharashtra, by setting up similar self-sufficient and sustainable establishments in regions such as Nandurbar (Maharashtra), Jaipur Rural (Rajasthan), and Mandla and Balaghat (Madhya Pradesh), including areas surrounding the Kanha National Park.
The second project will focus on skill development to support the local economy, particularly in sectors such as Hospitality, Retail, and Logistics.
By establishing Skill India Centres in partnership with ISKCON, this initiative will equip local youth, including women, with the necessary skills for employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.
“The collaboration between NSDC and ISKCON marks a significant stride towards fostering sustainable development through skill enhancement, ensuring that marginalized communities gain access to opportunities that lead to economic prosperity and overall social inclusion” said the statement.
