Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar Launches Skill Development Program for Kerala Youth

Thiruvananthapuram: Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar during an event at Mar Ivanios College,  announced a comprehensive skilling initiative, aiming to skill close to 4 lakh young Indians in Kerala within the next three years under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) 4.0.

The program, designed to focus on future skills, will cover areas such as Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing), AI – Data Quality Analyst, Drone Manufacturing and Assembly Technician, and Electronic Hardware Assembly Operator, among others. The initiative is part of the government’s broader vision to equip the youth with skills that align with emerging technological trends.

During the event, the Minister distributed certificates to students who completed the German Certificate Course designed by the National Skill Development Corporation. These nurses, hailing from different parts of Kerala, have been offered jobs in Germany with an attractive salary package of Rs. 2 lakh per month. Additionally, he launched a Language proficiency program designed by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

Minister Chandrasekhar emphasized the power of knowledge accompanied by skills, stating, “The Narendra Modi Government is on a mission to ensure that, within the next 5 years, young Malayalis in Thiruvananthapuram will no longer be left without skills.” He highlighted the potential of skills, particularly future skills, to expand opportunities for young Indians and addressed the need for more avenues in Kerala, such as factories, tech hubs, and investments.

Drawing attention to Apple’s increased manufacturing in India, the Minister pointed out, “Apple has set up plants in India and is making iPhones for India and the world. Around 1.3 lakh direct jobs have been created. These plants have come up in states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu. Why not Kerala? Talent is the biggest magnet for investment, and skilling is the passport for prosperity.”

Acknowledging the presence of industry leaders from IBM and NXP, Minister Chandrasekhar expressed confidence that the youth of Kerala would showcase their talent in fields like cybersecurity, AI, semiconductor, and electronics design.

Hitesh Garg, Vice President and India country manager at NXP, commended the government’s focus on skill development, emphasizing its critical role in making India a net exporter of talent. Shri Sandeep Patel, Managing Director, IBM India & South Asia, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the transformative power of technology and IBM’s commitment to building skill potential in Kerala.

The skilling initiative launched by Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar reflects a strategic effort to bridge skill gaps and prepare the youth for the evolving job market, contributing to India’s growth as a hub for skilled professionals.