Minister urges youth to avail benefits of govt schemes

Union Minister Jitendra Singh discussed entrepreneurship and livelihood opportunities at a luncheon interaction hosted for a group of youth from Jammu and Kashmir currently on a visit to Delhi as a part of the Central government’s Youth Exchange Programme.

The Minister engaged in conversation with the youth, urging them to take advantage of various Central government initiatives aimed at empowering them financially and professionally. A total of 125 students from J&K participated in the programme, gaining exposure to opportunities available under government schemes.

Jitendra Singh highlighted several schemes, including startup yojana, PM Vishwakarma Yojana, PM Mudra among others, which offer skill training, modern tools and financial support to artisans and traditional craftsmen. He encouraged youth from Kashmir to explore opportunities in their region’s rich heritage industries, such as Pashmina weaving and wood carving, to secure sustainable livelihoods. He emphasised that the scheme not only enhances skill sets but also ensures economic stability by providing financial incentives and employment prospects.

The Minister also spoke extensively about the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, which enables aspiring entrepreneurs to obtain collateral-free loans of up to Rs 20 lakh, removing financial barriers that often discourage young people from starting businesses. He urged the attendees to take proactive steps in utilising such schemes to launch their own ventures and contribute to economic development.

The Minister commended the technological advancements in Kashmir’s apple industry, where modern interventions have doubled apple production and improved shelf life, allowing farmers to expand their markets beyond the region. He urged young minds to embrace such technological innovations and drive progress in their respective fields.

He cited examples of determined students who, despite financial and logistical challenges, successfully pursued higher education through digital learning resources.