Delhi government has approved the Chief Minister Skill Development Scheme to support artisans linked with khadi, handloom, and cottage industries. Announcing the decision, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said artisans are the real custodians of Delhi’s cultural heritage and must be connected to modern markets. The scheme aims to provide structured training, digital access, and financial support so that thousands of artisans can upgrade their skills and improve their livelihoods in a rapidly changing economy.
Chief Minister Skill Development Scheme for Delhi Artisans
- The Chief Minister Skill Development Scheme is designed to bridge the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern economic needs.
- For years, artisans working in khadi, handloom, and cottage industries have faced limited access to markets and technology.
- Under this initiative, the Delhi government wants to ensure that skill development directly leads to dignified employment.
- CM Rekha Gupta emphasized that artisans need branding, quality improvement, and digital tools to compete globally.
- The scheme aligns with the broader vision of “Viksit Bharat,” where local skills are linked with global opportunities and sustainable livelihoods.
Chief Minister Skill Development Scheme Budget Allocation and Implementation Details
- The scheme will be implemented through the Delhi Khadi and Village Industries Board (DKVIB).
- In the first phase during 2025-26, around 3,728 beneficiaries will receive training, supported by an approved budget of Rs 8.9 crore.
- For the next financial year 2026-27, the Delhi government is expected to allocate Rs 57.5 crore to expand the programme.
- This sharp increase in funding shows the seriousness of the government’s commitment toward skill development and artisan empowerment.
- The structured rollout ensures proper monitoring, transparency, and gradual expansion across different sectors of traditional industries.
Training Structure, Stipend and Toolkit Support
- Under the Chief Minister Skill Development Scheme, each artisan will undergo 12 days of structured training, including a two-day Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP).
- Training will be conducted in small batches of 35-45 participants to ensure personalized guidance.
- Beneficiaries will receive a stipend of Rs 4,800 (Rs 400 per day) and Rs 100 per day for meals.
- After completing the programme, artisans will also receive essential toolkits such as foot-operated sewing machines where required.
- This practical support ensures that skill development translates into real productivity and income generation.
Digital Onboarding and ONDC Market Access
- A key highlight of the Chief Minister Skill Development Scheme is digital integration.
- Each artisan will get an e-catalogue with product photographs, details, and personal profiles.
- These listings will be uploaded on the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), a government-backed digital commerce platform.
- Through ONDC, artisans can sell products across India and even reach international buyers.
- This move is expected to remove middlemen, improve profit margins, and provide wider visibility. Digital onboarding under the Delhi government’s skill development plan is a game-changer for traditional sectors.
Link with Union Budget 2026-27 and National Vision
- CM Rekha Gupta also linked the scheme with the Union Budget 2026-27, which emphasized branding, training, quality enhancement, and global market connectivity for artisans.
- Referring to the ‘Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026,’ she noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi described skill development as central to nation-building.
- The Delhi government’s Chief Minister Skill Development Scheme reflects this national vision at the state level.
- By connecting artisans to global markets, the initiative supports economic inclusion, employment generation, and preservation of India’s traditional crafts.
About Khadi, Handloom and Cottage Industries in India
- Khadi and village industries play a crucial role in India’s rural and urban informal economy.
- These sectors generate employment for millions, especially women and marginalized communities.
- The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) operates at the national level, while state boards like DKVIB implement schemes locally.
- With rising competition and changing consumer trends, skill development and digital access have become essential.
- Government-backed digital platforms like ONDC aim to democratize e-commerce by allowing small producers to compete with large sellers.
Question
Q. The Chief Minister Skill Development Scheme in Delhi will be implemented through which body?
A) KVIC
B) MSME Ministry
C) Delhi Khadi and Village Industries Board
D) NITI Aayog