Delhi launches ‘Khadi Kaushal Vikas Yojana’
Scheme okayed by L-G to boost artisan skills, employment
In a significant push to revive traditional industries and generate sustainable employment, the Delhi Khadi and Village Industries Board (DKVIB) has notified the launch of the ‘Delhi Khadi Kaushal Vikas Yojana’.
The scheme, approved by the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, aims to strengthen the khadi and village industries sector by enhancing skills, modernising production practices and improving market access for artisans and workers. The scheme has been notified under the provisions of the Khadi and Village Industries Board Act, 1966. The scheme comes into effect from the date of its publication in the official gazette.
Focus on skill recognition, upgrade
The scheme seeks to recognise the existing skills of artisans in the unorganised sector and align them with national standards set by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC). It also focuses on upskilling workers, school and college dropouts, and aspiring entrepreneurs, thereby improving productivity and creating new livelihood opportunities in the sector.
The benefits of the scheme will be available to Delhi residents who have lived in the city for at least five years. Applicants must possess an Aadhaar card and can belong to any category, including General, SC, ST, OBC, minorities, women, economically weaker sections, and persons with disabilities. Registration through the e-Shram portal or other designated platforms is mandatory.
Comprehensive training, support measures
The programme offers a wide range of support measures, including skill training, digital literacy and access to modern tools. Participants will receive food during training sessions, and upon successful completion, they will be awarded certification and identity cards. The scheme also provides toolkits such as sewing machines, particularly under Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) initiatives.
In addition, beneficiaries will gain exposure to e-commerce platforms through the creation of e-catalogues, enabling them to list their products on the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). This is expected to enhance market visibility and increase income opportunities for artisans.
Market linkages, financial inclusion
The scheme includes provisions for marketing support, brand promotion, participation in trade fairs and information on quality certification. It also promotes awareness of banking facilities and facilitates financial linkages for artisans seeking to expand their businesses.
Diverse training roles & employment linkages
Training will be imparted in multiple job roles, including tailoring, fashion apparel production, merchandising, IT support and documentation. The programme is designed to link training outcomes with employment opportunities, either through wage-based jobs or self-employment ventures.
Monitoring and implementation framework
The Delhi Khadi and Village Industries Board will implement the scheme through a dedicated Project Management Unit. Progress will be monitored through key performance indicators such as enrolment rates, certification outcomes and employment generation. Regular audits, feedback mechanisms and verification processes will ensure transparency and effectiveness in implementation. The expenditure under the scheme will be met from budgetary allocations provided by the Delhi government to the DKVIB.
Push towards local economic growth
Officials believe the scheme will play a crucial role in revitalising Delhi’s traditional industries by combining skill development with modern marketing and digital tools. By integrating artisans into formal economic systems, the initiative aims to strengthen local manufacturing and contribute to inclusive economic growth in the national capital.
