PM-DAKSH Scheme Implementation and Outcomes
The Pradhan Mantri Dakshata Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi (PM-DAKSH) was launched as a Central Sector Scheme during 2020-21 to provide skill training to marginalized communities including Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes, Economically Weaker Sections, De-notified Tribes, and Safai Karamcharis including Waste Pickers. The scheme aimed to encourage both self-employment and wage-employment for socio-economic development of these target groups.
Implementation Structure and Funding
The scheme was implemented through three corporations under the Department of Social Justice & Empowerment: National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC), National Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation (NBCFDC), and National Safai Karamcharis Finance & Development Corporation (NSKFDC). The Department released funds to these corporations, which then reimbursed training costs to institutes empanelled under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) Scheme of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
Performance Metrics and Financials
From 2020-21 to 2023-24, the scheme trained 1,87,305 candidates and achieved placements for 96,162 individuals. Financially, against a total allocation of ₹276.47 crores for this period, the actual expenditure reached ₹309.5 crores, indicating overspending against the allocated budget.
Quality Assurance and Employment Requirements
Training institutes were mandated to provide employment (either wage or self-employment) to at least 70% of trained candidates. Failure to meet this placement threshold resulted in forfeiture of the third installment representing 30% of the training cost. Institutes were also required to maintain industry collaborations to facilitate employment opportunities for trained candidates. The three implementing corporations provided loan facilities and handholding assistance to eligible youth for setting up their projects.
Evaluation Results and Impact Assessment
An evaluation study of the PM-DAKSH Scheme demonstrated strong relevance and learning effectiveness, with over 90% of beneficiaries reporting that the training aligned with their career goals and local labor market needs while achieving intended learning outcomes. The scheme showed significant non-material gains including improved confidence, self-esteem, and social recognition, particularly among women and marginalized groups. Sustainability outcomes were largely positive, with most beneficiaries continuing to use acquired skills, expecting long-term income growth, reinvesting in development, and feeling capable of maintaining improvements independently.
Scheme Merger and Rationale
From 2024-25 onwards, PM-DAKSH Scheme was merged with PMKVY Scheme of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. This decision was taken because PM-DAKSH served as an additionality to PMKVY, with all job roles for skill training being sourced from the Skill India Digital Hub portal which were already covered under PMKVY. The merger was implemented to avoid duplication of efforts and resources.