Skill development in agriculture is critical for the growth and development of India's agricultural sector. With a vast majority of the population still engaged in farming and related activities, there is a need to enhance their skills and knowledge to improve productivity, efficiency, and sustainability.
Following are the key initiatives for skill development in agriculture
Agricultural universities and colleges offer undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral degree programs in various agricultural fields such as agronomy, horticulture, animal husbandry, dairy science, and fisheries. These programs provide theoretical and practical training to students and prepare them for careers in the agricultural sector.
Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) are agricultural extension centers established by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to provide training and support to farmers. KVKs offer various training programs on crop production, animal husbandry, fisheries, and post-harvest management, among others.
Vocational training programs are short-term courses designed to provide practical training in specific skills. In agriculture, vocational training programs can cover various topics such as organic farming, horticulture, seed production, farm machinery operation, and marketing of agricultural products.
The Government of India has launched various skill development schemes to enhance the skills of youth in agriculture and allied sectors. These schemes include Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY), and Agriculture Skill Council of India (ASCI), among others.
Private training institutes also offer various courses and programs in agriculture and allied sectors. These institutes provide practical training and hands-on experience to students and professionals.
Some of the key government schemes for agriculture in India are as follows:
The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) is a scheme launched by the Government of India to provide skill development training to youth across various sectors, including agriculture and allied activities. The scheme aims to enhance the employability of youth and provide them with opportunities for self-employment.
The Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY) is a scheme launched by the Ministry of Rural Development to provide skill development training to rural youth. The scheme aims to enhance the employability of rural youth and provide them with livelihood opportunities in agriculture and other sectors.
The Agriculture Skill Council of India (ASCI) is a sector skill council set up by the Government of India to address the skill development needs of the agriculture and allied sectors. The council aims to promote skill development, certification, and accreditation in agriculture and allied sectors.
The National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE) is a national-level institute established by the Ministry of Agriculture to provide training and capacity building to agricultural extension professionals. The institute offers various training programs and courses on agricultural extension, management, and entrepreneurship.
The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) is a public-private partnership set up by the Government of India to promote skill development across various sectors, including agriculture. The NSDC works with various training partners to provide skill development training and certification to youth across the country.
These are some of the key initiatives taken by the Indian government for skill development in agriculture. These initiatives aim to enhance the employability of youth and promote sustainable agriculture practices in the country.