The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendra (PMKK) initiative aims to establish visible and aspirational model training centers across India. These centers are envisioned as best-in-class skill development hubs, running industry-driven courses with a focus on employability. This piece explores the guidelines for setting up PMKKs, covering key aspects such as infrastructure, eligibility, and implementation.
Background and Context
The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) aims to create quality, for-profit vocational institutions through the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC). PMKKs are designed to be state-of-the-art training centers, providing competency-based skill development training, focusing on quality, sustainability, and stakeholder engagement.
Key Objectives of PMKKs
PMKKs are designed to:
-
Create benchmark institutions for competency-based skill development training.
-
Focus on quality, sustainability, and stakeholder engagement in skills delivery.
-
Transform the skill training model into a sustainable institutional framework.
Key Features of PMKKs
PMKKs are characterized by:
-
Aspirational Value: They are designed to be visible and aspirational model training centers.
-
Industry-Driven Courses: They offer courses that are aligned with industry needs and focused on employability.
-
Quality Infrastructure: They adhere to specific infrastructure and branding guidelines.
-
Emphasis on Outcomes: They focus on achieving measurable outcomes in terms of skill development and placement.
PMKK Stakeholders
The key stakeholders involved in PMKKs include:
-
Training Providers (TPs): Entities responsible for setting up and operating PMKKs.
-
Corporate Entities: Companies that can set up PMKKs, often related to their core business.
-
Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs)/State Public Sector Undertakings (SPSUs): Government entities that can establish PMKKs.
-
Industry Associations: Organizations representing specific industries that can set up PMKKs.
Project Components
The PMKK project encompasses several key components:
-
Coverage: PMKKs are set up in clusters of districts, non-clustered states/UTs, and Parliamentary Constituencies.
-
Infrastructure: PMKKs are categorized based on district population, with specific requirements for center size, classrooms, labs, and other facilities.
-
Financial Support: NSDC provides secured loans for PMKK establishment, with interest rates varying based on district category.
-
Training Delivery: PMKKs are provided with a training mandate under PMKVY or its successor schemes.
Infrastructure Norms for PMKKs
PMKKs must adhere to specific infrastructure norms, including:
-
Center Size: Minimum area requirements based on category (A, B, or C).
-
Ownership: Clear ownership or lease agreements for the premises.
-
Open Area: Specific requirements for open areas within the boundary wall.
-
Parking: Adequate parking space for vehicles.
-
Approach: Accessibility through major roads and public transport.
-
Classrooms: Minimum number of classrooms with specific dimensions.
-
Labs: Minimum number of training labs with specified equipment.
-
Other Facilities: Reception area, counselling room, washrooms, and other amenities.
Branding Norms
PMKKs are required to adhere to standard branding guidelines, including:
-
Signage: Specific design and dimensions for signage boards.
-
Banners: Standard designs for banners and main gate displays.
-
Paint Scheme: Specific color schemes for exterior and interior walls.
-
Notice Boards: Display of course details, success stories, and other relevant information.
Financial Support
-
Secured Loan: NSDC provides a secured loan up to ₹70 lakhs per PMKK.
-
Interest Rates: Interest rates vary based on the category of the district (6%, 3%, or 0%).
-
Repayment Period: The loan is to be repaid within 4 years, including a 1-year moratorium.
-
Capital Expenditure: Loans are provided for training infrastructure, equipment, and internal renovation.
-
Promoter Contribution: A minimum of 25% of the project cost must be contributed by the promoter.
Implementation Mechanism
The implementation process involves:
-
Two-Stage Evaluation: A two-stage process of desk evaluation and due diligence for selecting training providers.
-
Sub-Committee and Steering Committee: A sub-committee and a steering committee evaluate and approve proposals.
-
Agreement between TP and NSDC: An agreement is signed between the training provider and NSDC.
-
Implementation Monitoring: NSDC monitors financial and technical aspects of the project.
-
Social Monitoring: Trainings are monitored as per PMKVY guidelines.
-
Center Roll-Out: The center roll-out process involves location sign-off, superstructure sign-off, and center sign-off.
Performance Linked Incentives
PMKKs are eligible for performance-linked incentives, including:
-
Training mandates under PMKVY or its successor schemes.
-
Residential support as per PMKVY norms.
-
Training targets under Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
-
Opportunities to access CSR mandates.
-
Permission to deliver internationally benchmarked training programs.
Training Delivery
-
Training Cost Norms: Training costs are determined based on norms prescribed by MSDE.
-
Trainee Eligibility: Trainees must meet the eligibility criteria of the applicable skill program.
-
Trainer Eligibility: Trainers must have minimum qualifications and experience as prescribed by SSCs.
-
Content Specifications: Courses must be aligned with NSQF QP NOS.
-
Training Delivery Norms: Training duration and quality norms are as per the applicable scheme guidelines.
-
Assessment and Certification: Assessments are conducted by third-party agencies, and certificates are maintained for five years.
-
Placement Norms: Placement guidelines are as per common norms and applicable scheme guidelines.
-
Support for Industry Internships and OJT: On-the-job training is an integral part of the program.
-
Sustainability Model: PMKKs are expected to become self-sustainable in the long term.
Conclusion
The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendra (PMKK) guidelines provide a comprehensive framework for establishing high-quality skill development centers across India. By adhering to these guidelines, training providers can contribute to the Skill India Mission, empowering youth with relevant skills and enhancing their employability. The PMKK initiative is a crucial step towards creating a skilled and productive workforce in the country.