NATIONAL SKILL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (NSDC)

NSDC plans 50 new Future Skills Centres and 10 international academies to train youth in AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics. Collaborating with 33 corporations, it aims to train 2 lakh candidates and develop 2.7 lakh sq ft infrastructure, enhancing workforce readiness for global job markets.

Last Updated on 19th February, 2025
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Picture Courtesy: HINDUSTAN TIMES

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The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) announced expansion of its skilling footprint across India.

About the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC)

It is a not-for-profit public limited company established in 2008, under the Companies Act, 1956.

It was set up by the Ministry of Finance as a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with the Government of India, through the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), holding 49% of the share capital, and the private sector holding the remaining 51%.

Recent Initiatives

Expansion of Future Skills Centres

NSDC plans to set up 50 additional Future Skills Centres (FSCs) to train youth in emerging technologies such as AI, cybersecurity, data analytics, cloud computing, and advanced manufacturing. These centres will collaborate with 33 global corporations to provide industry-aligned training and practical exposure.

NSDC has established 21 FSCs in higher education institutions (HEIs), focusing on enhancing technological infrastructure and expertise in AI, data analytics, and cybersecurity.

The expansion aims to train over 2 lakh candidates and develop 2.7 lakh square feet of training infrastructure.

Industry-Aligned Programmes

NSDC CEO stated that the number of industry-aligned programmes will exceed 300, covering 12 major emerging technologies (e.g., AI, IoT, robotics).

NSDC has partnered with 11 premium institutions to launch 17 micro-credential programmes, awarding 75,000+ credits and training 5,000+ candidates. Future plans include collaborating with 15 more institutions to introduce 30+ micro-credential programmes and award 1,80,000 credits.

International Academies

NSDC will establish 10 International Academies to equip Indian youth with skills for global job markets. These academies will offer globally recognized certifications, foreign language training (e.g., Russian, Italian, Korean, French), and job placement support.

NSDC is partnering with Germany, Japan, and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to meet international workforce demands. Israel has requested 5,000 healthcare workers, while Germany and Japan have shown consistent demand for skilled professionals.

Achievements and Future Goals

NSDC has trained 40.3 million candidates, with 9.4 million placements. Over 18.3 million women and 12.9 million candidates from disadvantaged groups have benefited.

The Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) has reached 13 million candidates, offering 7,100+ courses in 23 Indian languages. NSDC JobX, an advanced job portal, connects job seekers with employers.

NSDC has engaged 3.5 million apprentices across sectors, with financial support of ₹10,025 crore for apprenticeship programs. 

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Source: 

HINDUSTAN TIMES

PRACTICE QUESTION

 Q.Analyze the impact of automation and AI on India’s skill development ecosystem. What skills must be prioritized for future job markets? 150 words

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