SANKALP Scheme | 23 Feb 2026

Source: TH

Why in News?

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament has expressed concern over gaps in planning and the slow pace of implementation of the Skill Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for Livelihood Promotion (SANKALP) scheme. 

  • The observations were based on a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, which found that the SANKALP scheme utilised only 44% of its allocated funds, with significant World Bank assistance remaining unspent, indicating weak financial planning and absorption capacity.

What is the SANKALP Scheme?

  • About: Launched in January 2018 by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), the SANKALP scheme is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme aimed at operationalising the National Skill Development Mission (NSDM). 
    • It focuses on strengthening institutional mechanisms for short-term skill training and expanding access to quality training for marginalised communities.
  • Funding: The scheme was approved with a total budget of Rs 4,455 crore. It is primarily supported by a World Bank loan of Rs 3,300 crore, supplemented by state leverage and industry contribution.
  • Timeline: Originally slated for completion by March 2023, the deadline was extended to March 2024.
  • Core Objectives: 
    • Institutional Strengthening: Building capacity at the National, State, and District levels. 
    • Quality Assurance: Standardizing certification, universalizing the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF), and creating a pool of quality trainers.
    • Inclusion: Focusing on increasing the participation of women, SC/STs, and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) in vocational training.
  • Key Achievements & Outcomes: Strengthened District Skill Committees (DSCs) enabling demand-driven implementation of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY).

    • Promoted Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and certification at Gram Panchayat level.

    • Funded development of an IT system namely “Skill India Portal” to capture the data for skilling related activities across the country.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the SANKALP scheme?
 A Centrally Sponsored Scheme launched in 2018 by MSDE to operationalise the National Skill Development Mission through institutional strengthening, quality assurance, and inclusive skilling.

2. What were the key CAG findings on SANKALP?
 Only 44% of funds were utilised, implementation was delayed due to weak planning, and lack of central monitoring reduced accountability and effectiveness.

3. How is SANKALP funded?
 It has a ₹4,455 crore outlay, primarily financed by a ₹3,300 crore World Bank loan, along with state leverage and industry contributions.

4. What are the core objectives of the scheme?
 Institutional strengthening, quality assurance via NSQF and certified trainers, and increased participation of women, SC/STs, and PwDs in skill training.

UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ)  

Prelims

Q. With reference to Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, consider the following statements: (2018)

  1. It is the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Labour and Employment.  
  2. It, among other things, will also impart training in soft skills, entrepreneurship, and financial and digital literacy.  
  3. It aims to align the competencies of the unregulated workforce of the country to the National Skill Qualification Framework.  

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3  

Ans: (c)