Context
Recently, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has launched a pilot project for upskilling the cane and bamboo artisans of Nagaland under Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), a component of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY).
About the project
- This Pilot Project aims to upskill the local weavers and artisans to enhance their productivity through RPL assessment and certification in traditional handicrafts.
- The project targets to upskill over 4,000 craftsmen and artisans.
- The artisans and weavers will be aligned with the standardized National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF).
- Under the initiative, each batch shall run for 12 days with 12 hours orientation and 60 hours Bridge Module.
- Further, after the orientation programme along with the Bridge Module, the artisans and weavers shall be certified with the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Type-1.
- The training delivery partners for the upskilling initiative are Cane Concept and Handloom Naga.
- National Skill Development Corporation, the nodal implementation agency for the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, supported by Handicrafts and Carpet Sector Skill Council (HCSSC) will monitor the day-to-day progress of the project.
What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a component of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY).
- It is a skill certi?cation component to enable Indian youth to take on industry relevant skill certification which will help them to secure a better livelihood.
- Implementing Agency: Project Implementing Agencies (PIAs) such as private and public sector expert bodies in the sector and other agencies designated by MSDE/NSDC are being incentivised to implement RPL projects.
What are the objectives of RPL?
- To align the competencies of the pre-existing workforce of the country to the standardized National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF).
- To enhance the employability or entrepreneurial opportunities of an individual.
- To provide opportunities for reducing inequalities based on privileging certain forms of knowledge over others.
- Leverage technological interventions in programme delivery by providing standardized content on digital and financial literacy, online assessments.
- Create value by making it aspirational both from the standpoint of the candidate and the employer.
- Deploy demand-based selective RPL models.
