India’s mission to become a developed nation by 2047 has placed skills at the centre of its growth story. While national programs set the broad direction, states are also shaping a future-ready workforce through their own targeted initiatives.
Indian states are creating opportunities for young people, supporting local industries, and helping communities adapt to a fast-changing economy. From craft revival to digital training and green energy skills, each state is designing solutions that match its strengths and needs.
Here is a look at some of the significant state-led models driving India’s skilling vision forward.
UTTAR PRADESH
- One District One Product (ODOP)
ODOP
ODOP is one of the most recognisable initiatives from Uttar Pradesh. Launched in 2018, it focuses on reviving traditional crafts and turning local specialities into strong brands. Each district is linked to a unique product, from Agra’s petha to Firozabad’s glassware. The program supports artisans with training, financial help, and marketing assistance. By improving quality and opening new markets, ODOP is helping many families find steady income and encouraging entrepreneurship in small towns.
- Project Praveen
Project Praveen
Project Praveen brings skill training directly to government school students in Classes 9 to 12. Run under the UP Skill Development Mission, the project offers training in areas such as IT, beauty and wellness, and healthcare. Private training partners conduct sessions inside schools, giving students hands-on exposure. This early skilling approach helps them understand their interests and build confidence before they finish school. It also supports their chances of finding work or pursuing vocational education after graduation.
- Surya Mitra Scheme
The Surya Mitra scheme prepares young people for jobs in the fast-growing solar energy sector. Led by UPNEDA, the program offers 60 days of free training that includes boarding and lodging. Participants learn how to install and maintain solar panels, which aligns with the goal of expanding rooftop solar systems across the state. As the demand for renewable energy rises, this scheme is opening the door to steady and skilled employment for many youth.
KERALA
- ASAP (Additional Skill Acquisition Program) Kerala
ASAP
ASAP Kerala has built a strong reputation in the skilling landscape over the last decade. It functions as a government edtech platform offering more than 150 courses across 19 domains. With 16 Community Skill Parks and over 100 Skill Development Centres, it creates a bridge between learners and industry needs. ASAP helps students and professionals upskill or reskill, while also providing companies with job-ready talent. Its blended learning model and industry partnerships make it one of the most comprehensive state-driven skill networks in the country.
- Sakalyam Scheme
The Sakalyam scheme supports transgender individuals by giving them access to vocational training and career-oriented courses. Run by Kerala’s Social Justice Department, the scheme focuses on improving employability and financial independence for the transgender community. Training is offered through government institutions, and applications are handled through portals like SUNEETHI. By addressing the barriers faced by the community in the job market, Kerala is pushing for more inclusive employment.
TAMIL NADU
- Naan Mudhalvan
Naan Mudhalvan
Naan Mudhalvan is a wide-reaching program launched in 2022 to improve the employability of students and young professionals. It offers training in new technologies, communication skills, and interview preparation. The program also includes career counselling in schools and guidance for competitive exams. With its mix of online learning and classroom support, Naan Mudhalvan helps bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry expectations.
- Vetri Nichayam
Vetri Nichayam focuses on unemployed youth who need quick access to job-linked skills. The scheme targets individuals aged 18 to 35, including graduates, diploma holders, ITI-trained candidates, and school dropouts. It provides industry-relevant training with a strong focus on immediate placement. This direct employment link makes the scheme especially helpful for families that depend on swift income support.
ASSAM
- Placement-Linked Skill Development Training Program
Placement-Linked Skill Development Training Program
Assam’s program centres on training and placing youth through a PPP model. The Assam Skill Development Mission empanels private partners that train candidates in different trades. Once the targets are fixed, partners must ensure that trainees are placed after completing their courses. This result-driven model helps align training quality with industry requirements.
- North East Skill Centre (NESC)
Set up with ITEES Singapore as a global knowledge partner, the North East Skill Centre offers high-quality training in retail, beauty and wellness, housekeeping, and food and beverage services. The centre aims to skill rural youth and improve employability in service-sector roles. Its international partnership also exposes trainees to modern standards and global practices.
WEST BENGAL
- Utkarsh Bangla
Utkarsh Bangla
Launched in 2016, Utkarsh Bangla provides short-term, placement-linked training across the state. The program is run by the Paschim Banga Society for Skill Development and focuses on improving job prospects for young people. Interested candidates can register online and choose from a wide range of courses. Its strong placement orientation makes it a key tool for workforce development in Bengal.
- Anandadhara Scheme
Anandadhara, run under the West Bengal State Rural Livelihoods Mission, supports Self-Help Group members by giving them skill training in areas such as vegetable cultivation, fish farming, tailoring, handicrafts, and food processing. The goal is to help rural households increase income through sustainable livelihood activities. By strengthening SHGs, the scheme builds local entrepreneurship and boosts rural economies.
These initiatives show how different states are tailoring their programs to match local needs and opportunities. Together, they form an important part of India’s journey toward a skilled and confident workforce.
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