India’s youth are at the center of the country’s development journey, and the Government of India has launched several powerful schemes to support them through jobs, skill training, entrepreneurship, volunteering, and health programs. In 2026, initiatives like MY Bharat, Skill India/PMKVY, Startup India, PM Mudra Yojana, Agnipath, and the Fit India Movement are creating real opportunities for young citizens to build careers, start businesses, gain industry-ready skills, and contribute to nation-building. This article provides a clear and updated guide to the top government schemes for youth in 2026, including eligibility, key benefits, and how to apply—making it especially useful for government job aspirants and students preparing for competitive exams.
Top Government Schemes for Youth in 2026
1. MERA YUVA BHARAT (MY BHARAT): India’s Digital Youth Platform
Launch Date: October 31, 2023
Authority: Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India
MY Bharat is revolutionizing youth engagement through a technology-driven platform that connects young people with opportunities for growth, volunteering, and nation-building.
Key Statistics:
- 2.05 Crore registered users (as of November 26, 2025)
- 14.5 lakh+ volunteering opportunities generated
- 16,000+ youth clubs connected nationally
- 60,000+ institutional partners including government bodies, educational institutions, and NGOs
Who Can Apply?
- Young citizens of all ages
- Students and professionals
- Aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs
- Community volunteers
What MY Bharat Offers:
- Digital registration and verified profiles
- Opportunity matching based on interests and skills
- Real-time impact tracking dashboards
- Experiential Learning Programs (ELPs)
- Leadership development initiatives
- Community service projects
- Networking with like-minded youth
MY Bharat Mobile App (Launched October 2025)
To enhance accessibility, MY Bharat launched a mobile app with cutting-edge features:
- Multilingual support for pan-India reach
- AI-driven chatbots for instant assistance
- Voice-assisted navigation
- Smart CV Builder for digital profiles
- Digital certificates and achievement badges
- Easy opportunity search and application
MY Bharat 2.0: The Next Generation (June 2025)
Advanced features including:
- AI chatbots for personalized guidance
- Smart CV Builder for professional profiles
- National Career Services integration
- Mentorship Hub connecting youth with industry professionals
- Fit India wellness tracking
How to Register: Visit mera-yuva-bharat.in or download the mobile app and complete simple registration process.
2. SKILL INDIA MISSION: Empowering 6 Crore Indians
Launch Date: July 15, 2015 (World Youth Skills Day)
Authority: Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
Skill India Mission has transformed India’s vocational training ecosystem, making quality skill development accessible to millions.
Overall Impact:
- 6+ Crore Indians empowered since 2014
- ₹8,800 crore allocated for 2022-23 to 2025-26
- Integrated approach merging multiple schemes for comprehensive coverage
2A. PRADHAN MANTRI KAUSHAL VIKAS YOJANA (PMKVY)
Launch Date: July 15, 2015
Authority: Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
PMKVY is India’s flagship short-term skill training scheme providing industry-relevant training to youth.
Key Achievements:
- 16.4+ million candidates trained (cumulative as of October 2025)
- 45% female beneficiaries
- Coverage: Manufacturing, healthcare, IT, electronics, retail, robotics, AI, drone technology
Who Can Apply?
- Youth aged 15-45 years
- School dropouts
- Unemployed individuals
- Anyone seeking skill upgrade or reskilling
PMKVY Versions & Benefits:
PMKVY 1.0 (2015-16):
- Trained 19.85 lakh candidates
- Focus: Basic skill development
PMKVY 2.0:
- Trained 1.10 crore candidates
- Expanded reach to more sectors
PMKVY 3.0:
- Trained 7.37 lakh candidates
- Customized COVID Warriors training program
- Skill Hub Initiative for vocational-general education integration
PMKVY 4.0 (2022-2025):
- 28.9 lakh candidates trained
- Focus: On-Job Training (OJT) embedded courses
- Special support for women and PWDs
- Boarding, lodging, and transportation assistance
- Diverse career pathway options
Key Features:
- Free training for eligible candidates
- Industry-aligned curriculum updated regularly
- Placement assistance after training
- Digital certificates recognized nationally
- Stipend during training for certain categories
How to Apply: Visit pmkvy.gov.in, select a training center near you, and enroll in your chosen skill course.
2B. JAN SHIKSHAN SANSTHAN (JSS)
Launch Date: 1967 (Originally as Shramik Vidyapeeth)
Authority: Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
JSS provides non-formal skill training at the doorstep of beneficiaries, particularly targeting marginalized groups.
Key Statistics:
- 32.5+ lakh beneficiaries trained (2018-2025)
- 82% female participation in annual coverage
- 289 JSS centers operational across 26 States and 7 UTs
Who Can Apply?
- Non-literates and neo-literates
- School dropouts (up to 12th standard)
- Age group: 15-45 years
- Special focus: Women, SC/ST/OBC, minorities in rural areas
What JSS Offers:
- Free vocational skill training
- 100% government grant support
- Training at convenient community locations
- Practical, employment-focused curriculum
- Focus on self-employment opportunities
Coverage Sectors:
- Tailoring and textile work
- Agricultural skills
- Food processing
- Beauty and wellness
- Handcrafts
- Household services
How to Apply: Contact your nearest JSS center or visit the Ministry of Skill Development website for location details.
2C. NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP PROMOTION SCHEME (NAPS)
Launch Date: August 2016
Authority: Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
NAPS promotes apprenticeship by offering financial support, making industrial training accessible to youth.
Key Metrics:
- 49.12 lakh apprentices engaged since 2016
- ₹1,500/month maximum government stipend support
- 2025-26 Target: 13 lakh apprentices
- 3.99 lakh apprentices engaged (as of July 2025)
Who Can Apply?
- Youth aged 15-45 years
- School pass candidates
- ITI graduates
- Anyone seeking practical industrial experience
Program Features:
- Government stipend support: Up to 25% of minimum prescribed stipend (max ₹1,500/month)
- Dual training: Basic + on-the-job/practical training
- Industry partnerships: Training in real work environments
- Job prospects: Direct employment opportunities
- Skill certification: Nationally recognized credentials
Duration & Support:
- Apprenticeship duration: 6 months to 4 years (as per trade)
- Government financial assistance throughout training period
- Post-apprenticeship employment assistance
How to Apply: Register on apprenticeshipindia.gov.in or contact your nearest Industrial Training Institute (ITI).
3. PM-SETU: Modernizing India’s Vocational Training Infrastructure
Launch Date: October 4, 2025
Authority: Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
Investment: ₹60,000 crore
Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs (PM-SETU) represents a revolutionary investment in modernizing India’s ITI network.
Scale & Reach:
- 1,000 Government ITIs to be upgraded
- Hub-and-Spoke Model: 200 hub ITIs + 800 spoke ITIs
- 1,200 Vocational Skill Labs across 34 States/UTs
- Geographic coverage: From metros to aspirational districts
Who Can Benefit?
- ITI aspirants (all ages)
- School dropouts aged 15+
- Unemployed youth seeking skill upgrade
- Students from JNVs and Eklavya Model Schools
- Rural and underprivileged youth
PM-SETU Features:
- Advanced Skills Centers: Modern infrastructure, digital learning platforms
- Incubation facilities: Support for innovation and entrepreneurship
- Placement cells: Direct job placement assistance
- Industry partnerships: Government-owned, industry-managed model
- Modern curriculum: Aligned with global industry standards
- Training-of-trainers: Quality instructor development
High-Demand Sectors:
Information Technology, Automotive, Agriculture, Electronics, Logistics, Tourism, Healthcare, Renewable Energy, and more
1,200 Vocational Skill Labs:
Established in Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs) and Eklavya Model Residential Schools across 34 States/UTs offering hands-on training in 12 high-demand sectors.
How to Apply: Contact your nearest upgraded ITI or visit the official PM-SETU portal for admission details.
4. AGNIPATH SCHEME: Military Service & Career Development
Launch Date: June 15, 2022
Authority: Ministry of Defence
Agnipath offers youth a unique opportunity for military service combined with professional development and financial benefits.
Program Details:
- Recruitment Age: 17.5-21 years
- Service Duration: 4 years as “Agniveer”
- Gender Inclusive: Open to both male and female aspirants
- Enrollment: 1.5 lakh Agniveers enrolled by February 2025
Who Can Apply?
- Young citizens aged 17.5-21 years
- 10+2 pass or equivalent
- Both male and female aspirants eligible
- Medically and physically fit candidates
Benefits for Agniveers:
- Discipline & Leadership Training: Military-grade training
- Technical Skill Development: Professional skills aligned with services
- Seva Nidhi Package: Financial benefit upon completion
- Post-Service Employment: Priority in civilian job placements
- Career Advancement: Top performers can be retained for longer service
Track Record:
- First batch of 46,000 Agniveers successfully completed training in 2023
- Positive feedback on skill development and career prospects
- High retention rates for further service
Service Options:
- Indian Army
- Indian Navy
- Indian Air Force
- All three services recruit equally
How to Apply: Visit joinindianarmy.nic.in or official recruitment portals. Recruitment notifications published regularly.
5. PRADHAN MANTRI VIKSIT BHARAT ROZGAR YOJANA: ₹1 Lakh Crore Job Creation
Announcement Date: August 15, 2025
Authority: Government of India
This landmark scheme targets massive employment generation over two years.
Scheme Overview:
- Total Investment: ₹1 lakh crore
- Job Target: 3.5+ crore new jobs in 2 years
- Government Incentive: Up to ₹15,000 per youth (in 2 installments)
- Employer Incentive: ₹3,000/month per new employee for employment creation
Who Can Benefit?
- Newly employed youth (aged 18-40 years, typically)
- First-time job seekers
- Unemployed individuals seeking employment
- Formal sector workers
Key Features:
- Direct cash incentive to newly hired employees
- Employer support encouraging job creation
- Formal employment focus
- Pan-India coverage across all sectors
Eligibility & Application:
- Details and application process announced through official government channels
- Registration through employment exchanges and designated portals
How to Apply: Watch for official notification on Government of India websites and labor ministry portals.
6. STARTUP INDIA: Fostering Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Launch Date: January 16, 2016
Authority: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)
Startup India is the Government’s flagship program for fostering innovation-driven growth and supporting young entrepreneurs.
Scale & Impact:
- 1,97,692 startups recognized (as of October 31, 2025)
- Expansion beyond metros to Tier-II and Tier-III cities
- Special focus: Rural youth and first-generation entrepreneurs
Who Can Apply?
- Young entrepreneurs (aged 18+)
- Small businesses and ventures
- Innovative ideas with growth potential
- Tech and non-tech businesses
- Social enterprises and impact ventures
Startup India Benefits:
Financial Support:
- ₹10,000 crore Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS)
- Tax exemptions for 3 consecutive financial years
- Access to venture capital and angel investors
Operational Support:
- Simplified compliance and self-certification
- Single-window clearances for approvals
- Reduced regulatory burden
- Ease of doing business initiatives
Sector-Specific Policies:
- Biotechnology startups
- Agriculture & Agritech ventures
- Renewable energy startups
- Green technology innovations
Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS):
- Operational since: April 2021
- 219 approved incubators (as of June 2025)
- ₹945 crore total approval funding
- Support for proof-of-concept to commercialization phases
- Ideal for early-stage startups
How to Apply: Register on startupindia.gov.in, submit business plan and relevant documents for recognition and access benefits.
7. PRADHAN MANTRI MUDRA YOJANA (PMMY): Grassroots Entrepreneurship
Launch Date: 2015 | Celebrating: 10 years in April 2025
Authority: Ministry of Finance
PMMY has revolutionized access to credit for micro-enterprises, removing collateral barriers to entrepreneurship.
Decade-Long Impact:
- 53.85 crore loans sanctioned (as of August 4, 2025)
- ₹35.13 lakh crore disbursed
- Special focus: Women (50%+ beneficiaries) and minority entrepreneurs
- New entrepreneurs: Extensive support for first-time business owners
Who Can Apply?
- Micro-entrepreneurs
- Small business owners
- Self-employed individuals
- Women entrepreneurs
- Minority business owners
- Non-agricultural sector workers
- Anyone seeking to start a small business
Key Features:
- Collateral-free loans up to ₹20 lakh
- Minimal documentation required
- Flexible repayment terms
- Lower interest rates compared to conventional loans
- Fast disbursal process
- Government backed: RBI regulated
Loan Categories:
- Shishu Loan: Up to ₹50,000
- Kishore Loan: ₹50,001 to ₹5 lakh
- Tarun Loan: ₹5 lakh to ₹20 lakh
What Can Be Financed?
- Working capital for existing businesses
- Equipment and machinery purchase
- Business expansion
- Skill development
- Small manufacturing units
- Retail and trading businesses
- Service sector ventures
How to Apply: Visit mudrayojana.gov.in or approach your nearest participating bank with business plan and identification documents.
8. OTHER KEY SKILL DEVELOPMENT SCHEMES
8A. DEEN DAYAL UPADHYAYA GRAMEEN KAUSHALYA YOJANA (DDU-GKY)
Launch Date: September 25, 2014
Authority: Ministry of Rural Development & NRLM
Key Metrics:
- 16.9+ lakh trained since inception
- 10.97+ lakh placed in employment
- Placement Rate: 65% in gainful employment
Who Can Apply?
- Rural youth aged 18-35 years
- Below poverty line (BPL) and poor families
- Aspirational job seekers
Features:
- Free residential skill training
- Job placement assistance
- Income support during training
- Post-placement support
- Focus on organized sector employment
8B. RURAL SELF EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING INSTITUTES (RSETIs)
Established: January 2009
Authority: Ministry of Rural Development (Bank-led)
Key Metrics:
- 56.69+ lakh candidates trained (as of June 2025)
- Growth: From 22.89 lakh (2016-17) to 56.69 lakh (2025-26)
Who Can Apply?
- Rural youth aged 18-45 years
- Aspiring entrepreneurs
- Unemployed rural population
- Anyone seeking self-employment skills
What RSETIs Offer:
- Free, quality residential training
- Post-training credit linkage (loans up to ₹5 lakh)
- Entrepreneurship development
- Business planning assistance
- Ongoing support after training
- Bank identification with direct support
9. NATIONAL SERVICE SCHEME (NSS): Building Nation Builders
Established: 1969
Authority: Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
NSS has evolved into India’s largest student volunteer movement promoting social consciousness and nation-building.
Growth & Scale:
- Started: 1969 with 37 universities, 40,000 volunteers
- Current Scale: 657 universities, 20,669 colleges, 11,988 senior secondary schools
- Active Volunteers: 3.9 million NSS volunteers annually
- Coverage: Spread across 51 +2 Councils/Directorates
Who Can Join?
- School and college students
- University students
- Young professionals seeking volunteering
- Age: Typically 13-25 years
NSS Programs & Activities:
National Integration Camps (NIC)
- 200 selected volunteers per camp
- Promotes cultural diversity and patriotism
- Annual residential camps
Adventure Programs
- Builds confidence and leadership skills
- Rock climbing, trekking, water sports
Republic Day Parade Camp
- National participation event
- Delhi-based opportunity
National Youth Festivals
- Held annually (January 12-16)
- Celebration of youth talent and ideas
NSS Awards
- Recognition for excellence in service
- Appreciation for outstanding volunteers
Key Focus Areas:
- Community development
- Environmental conservation
- Health awareness campaigns
- Literacy programs
- Disaster relief
- Social justice advocacy
How to Join: Register with NSS unit in your school/college or contact nearest NSS center.
10. VIKSIT BHARAT YOUNG LEADERS’ DIALOGUE (VBYLD) 2026
Dates: January 9-12, 2026 | Venue: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
Authority: Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
This premier platform brings together India’s brightest young minds to discuss national priorities and present youth-led solutions.
Event Scale:
- 3,000 total participants including international delegates
- 1,500 youth from Viksit Bharat Challenge Track
- 1,000 participants from Cultural & Design Track
- 100 international delegates showcasing global perspectives
- 10 National Priority Themes for discussion and presentation
Who Can Participate?
- Young innovators and leaders (typically 18-35 years)
- Students with ideas on national importance
- Social entrepreneurs
- Cultural ambassadors
- International youth delegates
- Selected through MY Bharat digital quiz and application process
Participation Stats:
- 50.42 lakh youth participated in nationwide digital quiz on MY Bharat
- Winners and selected participants get platform to present solutions
- Direct interaction with Prime Minister and national leadership
Ten National Priority Themes:
- Education and skill development
- Economic growth and job creation
- Environmental sustainability
- Health and wellness
- Technology and innovation
- Social justice and equality
- Rural development
- Urban planning
- Cultural heritage
- National security and defense
Benefits of Participation:
- National platform visibility
- Direct engagement with policymakers
- Recognition of ideas and innovations
- Networking opportunities
- Potential funding and support
- Media coverage
How to Apply: Participate in MY Bharat digital quiz during National Youth Week or watch for formal selection notifications on MY Bharat portal.
11. HEALTH & FITNESS SCHEMES
FIT INDIA MOVEMENT
Launch Date: August 29, 2019
Authority: Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
Core Objectives:
- Make fitness easy, fun, and free
- Promote indigenous and traditional sports
- Embed fitness in schools and institutions
- Build daily physical activity culture
Key Initiatives:
- Fit India School Certification – Embed fitness in education
- Sundays on Cycle – Promote cycling
- Fitness Pledge Campaign – Behavioral change
- Fit India Mobile App – Fitness tracking and progress
KASHI DECLARATION: Drug-Free Youth Campaign
Held: July 2025 at Varanasi
Authority: Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
Initiative Details:
- Theme: “Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat” (Drug-Free Youth)
- Participants: 600+ youth leaders from 120+ organizations
- 5-year roadmap: Community-led, youth-driven transformation
- Target: Drug-free youth by 2047
RASHTRIYA KISHORE SWASTHYA KARYAKRAM (RKSK)
Launch Date: January 7, 2014
Authority: Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
Coverage:
- Age: 10-19 years
- Scope: Rural and urban youth
- Focus: Marginalized groups
Six Thematic Domains:
- Nutrition (reducing malnutrition and anemia)
- Sexual & Reproductive Health (SRH)
- Mental Health (psychological well-being)
- Injuries & Violence Prevention
- Substance Misuse (prevention and intervention)
- Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)
How Youth Can Get Involved in 2026
Immediate Action Steps:
1. Digital Platforms:
- Register on MY Bharat – Explore 14.5 lakh+ volunteering opportunities
- Download MY Bharat app for easy access
2. Skill Development:
- Enroll in PMKVY – Free industry-relevant skill training
- Join PM-SETU ITIs for vocational excellence
- Participate in NAPS for apprenticeship opportunities
- Access JSS for non-formal training
- Apply to DDU-GKY for rural employment focus
- Register with RSETIs for self-employment training
3. Community Service:
- Join NSS in your school/college
- Participate in National Integration Camps
- Volunteer through MY Bharat platform
4. Entrepreneurship:
- Launch your startup on Startup India
- Apply for SISFS (Startup Seed Fund)
- Explore MUDRA Yojana for business loans
- Register on startupindia.gov.in
5. Military Service:
- Check eligibility for Agnipath Scheme
- Visit joinindianarmy.nic.in for recruitment details
6. Health & Wellness:
- Join Fit India Movement
- Download Fit India app for fitness tracking
- Participate in fitness pledge campaigns
7. National-Level Engagement:
- Participate in Viksit Bharat Young Leaders’ Dialogue digital quiz
- Attend National Youth Festivals
- Engage in RKSK health programs