Overview
Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) is the flagship skill-certification scheme of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE). Its current phase, PMKVY 4.0, is delivered through the Skill India Digital Hub (skillindiadigital.gov.in), with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and its affiliated training partners running training on the ground. It gives candidates industry-relevant skill training and a government-recognised certificate, aimed at improving employability rather than issuing an academic qualification.
Who can apply
Eligibility is set per job role, but MSDE's own scheme page states the baseline requirement: an Indian national with a valid Aadhaar number, meeting that job role's specific eligibility criteria. PMKVY is aimed at people who want short-term, industry-oriented skill training rather than a formal degree or diploma; it runs alongside, or instead of, formal education for people looking to enter the workforce.
Components
MSDE's scheme page lists three components under PMKVY 4.0:
| Component | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Short Term Training (STT) | Structured, job-role-specific training for new entrants to a trade |
| Special Projects | Training tailored to specific industry, sector or population needs outside the standard STT structure |
| Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) | Assessment and certification for people who already have skills or experience in a job role, without requiring fresh training. Candidates need prior experience in the job role they're seeking RPL certification for |
How it works
Training is delivered by NSDC-affiliated training partners and centres, in job roles aligned to the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) and defined by the relevant Sector Skill Council for each trade. Assessment and certification follow MSDE's Standard Operating Procedure for Assessment & Certification under PMKVY 4.0, with assessment agencies recognised and regulated under norms set by the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET). Candidates who pass receive a certificate recognised across the Skill India ecosystem.
Fees
Training under PMKVY is free to the candidate; the cost is borne by the government.
How to apply
Candidates register through the Skill India Digital Hub (skillindiadigital.gov.in) or an NSDC-affiliated training centre, choosing a job role from the sectors and centres listed there.
Preparation tips
Check that the training centre and job role you're considering are listed as NSDC/PMKVY-affiliated before enrolling.
Since certification is tied to a specific job role's skill standards, be clear on which job role you're training and assessing for.
If you already have experience in a trade, check whether RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) certification fits you better than fresh Short Term Training.
Who runs PMKVY?
The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) owns the scheme; NSDC and its affiliated training partners deliver training, with candidates registering through the Skill India Digital Hub.
What are the components of PMKVY 4.0?
Three: Short Term Training (STT) for new entrants to a job role, Special Projects for tailored training needs, and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for certifying people who already have relevant experience.
Does PMKVY training cost anything?
No, training is free to the candidate; the government bears the cost.
Is a PMKVY certificate the same as a school or college qualification?
No. It is a skill certification tied to a specific job role, meant to support employability, not a substitute for a school or college qualification.
How do I find a PMKVY training centre?
Through the Skill India Digital Hub (skillindiadigital.gov.in) or NSDC's official channels, which list affiliated training partners and the job roles they offer.