What is SAMARTH scheme?

The SAMARTH (Scheme for Capacity Building in Textiles Sector) scheme is a demand-driven and placement-oriented umbrella skilling initiative that aims to provide incentives and create jobs in the organized textile industry and related sectors, covering the entire value chain of textiles, except spinning and weaving. It is implemented via Implementing Partners like state government agencies, Textile Industry/ Industry Associations and sectoral organizations of the textile ministry, like the Central Silk Board. It will be implemented until March 2024.

Why is SAMARTH Scheme in News?

The Indian Government is now planning to rope in more industry partners to boost skill development under the SAMARTH scheme. This initiative is part of the steps taken by the government to make the textile sector worth 250 billion USD by the end of this decade from the present 150-155 billion USD.

Recent Achievements in the scheme

Around 92,000 weavers and artisans received jobs under this scheme. The scheme has penetrated more than 28 states and union territories. 1.5 lakh beneficiaries have been provided training under the scheme. The target of beneficiaries is 3.47 lakh beneficiaries.

How is the scheme being implemented?

To implement the scheme the textiles ministry has partnered with more than 116 textile industries and associations. The scheme is a part of the Broad Skilling Policy Framework adopted by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

Objective

The scheme aims to incentivise and support the efforts of the industrial sector in generating employment opportunities in the textile sector. It also aims to increase the productivity of the present workers in the textile sectors such as handicraft, jute, silk, and handloom.

What are the unique features of the scheme?

The scheme is being implemented using advanced technologies such as the Aadhaar Enabled Biometric Attendance System (AEBAS), CCTV, Training of Trainers, and dedicated call centres. 184 courses have been prepared to improve the skills of the present workers. These courses are aligned with the National Skill Qualification Framework.

Month: Current Affairs - March, 2023

Category: Government Schemes Current Affairs