Chief Minister’s Youth Work Training Scheme – Transforming Maharashtra into a Skill Hub

India boasts the largest youth population in the world, and Maharashtra, with its strong educational institutions, is well-positioned to leverage this demographic advantage. Recognizing the need to enhance employability and skill development, the Maharashtra government has introduced the Chief Minister’s Youth Work Training Scheme. This initiative aims to make Maharashtra a national hub for skilled labor by providing practical work experience, self-employment opportunities, and training for the state’s youth.

The scheme addresses the common dilemma faced by graduates about their next steps—whether to seek employment, pursue a government or private job, or start a business. The lack of work experience often hinders job prospects, creating a cycle of unemployment. The Chief Minister’s Youth Work Training Scheme breaks this cycle by offering a six-month practical training program, after which participants receive a certificate and a stipend ranging from ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 per month, depending on their educational qualifications. This training aims to bridge the gap between education and employment, making the youth more job-ready.

Maharashtra is also updating its ITI curriculum and has established Acharya Chanakya Skill Centers in 1,000 colleges across the state. In addition, the government is launching the Punyashlok Ahilya Devi Holkar Mahila Startup Yojana to support women entrepreneurs. By collaborating with local cooperative societies, dairy industries, and service sectors, the scheme aims to engage rural youth as well. The government has also created a website (https://rojgar.mahaswayam.gov.in) for easy registration, ensuring that the scheme reaches a wide audience. With a budget allocation of ₹5,500 crore, the government is committed to creating sustainable employment opportunities and aims to benefit 10 lakh youths in the next 2-3 months.