Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) – Short-Term Skill Training Courses in Various Sectors
The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) is a flagship scheme of the Government of India aimed at skill development and vocational training for youth. Launched under the Skill India Mission, PMKVY provides short-term skill training courses across various sectors, helping students and unemployed youth enhance employability and gain practical skills.
In this article, you will get complete details of PMKVY, including objectives, eligibility, courses offered, benefits, training process, and how to apply online.
What is Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)?
PMKVY was launched in July 2015 by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE). The primary goal of the scheme is to enable youth to acquire industry-relevant skills and earn certification to improve employment prospects.
Key Objectives:
Provide short-term skill training in multiple sectors
Encourage self-employment and entrepreneurship
Certify trained candidates under the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF)
Reduce unemployment among youth by enhancing employability
Official Portal: https://pmkvy.official.gov.in
Features of PMKVY
Short-Term Training Courses: Training durations range from 30 hours to 3 months depending on the sector.
Certification: Industry-recognized certificates issued under NSQF.
Financial Support: Training, assessment, and certification provided free of cost. Incentives provided to candidates after successful completion.
Placement Assistance: Job placement support through partner companies and skill councils.
Various Sectors Covered: Retail, IT, healthcare, construction, beauty and wellness, electronics, tourism, logistics, and more.
Flexible Learning: Both classroom and online learning options available.
PMKVY Eligibility Criteria
Indian citizen between 18–35 years for most courses (varies by training sector)
Unemployed youth or school/college dropouts
Must possess basic literacy and numeracy skills
No prior training under PMKVY in the same sector in the last 3 years
Documents Required:
Aadhaar Card
Identity Proof (Voter ID, Passport, Driving License)
Educational Certificates (if applicable)
Bank Account Details
PMKVY Courses Offered
The scheme offers training in multiple sectors to match industry demand. Some popular sectors include:
Information Technology (IT & ITES) – Basic computer skills, hardware, and software
Healthcare – Medical assistants, lab technicians, nursing assistants
Beauty & Wellness – Hairdressing, beauty therapy, salon management
Retail & Customer Service – Store management, sales, and marketing
Tourism & Hospitality – Hotel management, front desk, travel services
Construction & Handicrafts – Masonry, carpentry, welding
Electronics & Electrical – Repair, installation, and maintenance
Logistics & Supply Chain – Warehouse management, delivery management
PMKVY Training and Certification Process
Registration: Visit pmkvy.official.gov.in or enroll at a training partner center.
Training: Complete the short-term training course (30 hours to 3 months).
Assessment: Candidate undergoes skill assessment by certified assessors.
Certification: Upon passing the assessment, candidates receive NSQF-aligned certificates recognized by the industry.
Placement Support: Candidates can access placement assistance and job opportunities through PMKVY placement partners.
Benefits of PMKVY
Free skill training and certification for youth
Increased employment opportunities across various industries
Encourages self-employment and entrepreneurship
Nationally recognized certification under NSQF
Promotes economic growth by creating a skilled workforce
How to Apply Online for PMKVY
Visit the official PMKVY portal: https://pmkvy.official.gov.in
Click on “Find a Training Center / Apply Online”
Register with personal details and Aadhaar
Select the desired sector and course
Visit the training center to enroll and start the course
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is PMKVY training free?
Yes, training, assessment, and certification are provided free of cost.
Q2. Who can apply for PMKVY?
Indian youth between 18–35 years who are unemployed or school/college dropouts.
Q3. Does PMKVY provide job placement?
Yes, placement assistance is provided through partner companies and skill councils.
Q4. Are certificates recognized nationally?
Yes, PMKVY certificates are aligned with the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) and recognized across India.
Q5. Can I take multiple courses under PMKVY?
Yes, but the same course cannot be repeated within 3 years.
Conclusion
The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) is a revolutionary scheme for Indian youth that bridges the gap between education and employability. By offering free short-term skill training courses, certification, and placement support, PMKVY empowers youth to gain practical skills, secure employment, and explore self-employment opportunities.
If you are a student or unemployed youth looking to enhance your career prospects, applying for PMKVY is a great opportunity in 2026.