The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has launched a new platform called ‘Skill Manthan’ to share successful models of training and employment creation for women across India. The initiative began with a national virtual dialogue highlighting practical approaches from three districts. The focus is on how local administrations can combine training, business support, and market access to help women earn sustainable livelihoods.
What the announcement contains
‘Skill Manthan’ is described as a knowledge-sharing platform where district administrations can present working examples of women-focused skill and livelihood programmes. The inaugural session showcased three district models:
- Meerut, Uttar Pradesh: A manufacturing initiative providing hands-on training and jobs in badminton racket and shuttlecock production for women
- Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh: A scheme called Vidur Prerna Swadeshi that supports rural women entrepreneurs through branding help and market connections
- NTR District, Andhra Pradesh: A programme named RISE that combines training, access to credit, mentoring, job placement, and business guidance under one framework
The Ministry stated that successful models will be documented and shared nationally so other districts can adapt and replicate them. The approach rests on what officials call “hyperlocal skilling”—training aligned to what local employers actually need rather than generic programmes.
Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, emphasised that district administrations should lead skilling efforts based on local needs and MSME requirements. Smt. Debashree Mukherjee, Secretary of MSDE, added that skill development must be driven by district realities and employment opportunities available locally.
What this means for you
If you are a woman in a district where such programmes operate, or if you work in local administration, this platform signals growing government focus on connecting training with actual jobs and business support. Women entrepreneurs may find better access to skills training, credit, and market connections through district-led initiatives. For districts and local officials, ‘Skill Manthan’ offers a channel to learn from and share successful approaches with other regions, potentially bringing proven models to your area.