The Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India unveiled a skilling project in October 2025. This initiative, part of the Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS) scheme, is all about empowering minority communities in Kerala. It’s being rolled out in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Palakkad and aims to equip young people with cutting-edge technical skills in emerging fields. The goal is to uplift the socio-economic status of minorities through skill development and job opportunities.
The PM VIKAS scheme is a flagship program aimed at promoting the socio-economic empowerment of minority communities. It emphasizes skill development and entrepreneurship, with the aim of creating sustainable livelihoods and boosting employability. The recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IIT Palakkad is a significant step in this direction. The project is focused on equipping participants with future-ready skills in technology sectors, aligning with national priorities for inclusive growth and innovation.
IIT Palakkad will provide training for 400 candidates from minority communities in Kerala. The training will cover areas like Junior Chip Designing, Embedded Software Engineering, and Junior Engineering in Drone Research and Development. Specifically, 150 trainees will be trained as Junior Chip Designers, another 150 as Embedded Software Engineers, and 100 as Junior Engineers in Drone R&D. The Ministry of Minority Affairs will fully fund the training, including stipends for the trainees.
IIT Palakkad, recognized as an Institute of National Importance, will take charge of implementing the training program. With a strong emphasis on technology, innovation, and incubation, the institute will also offer placement support to trainees upon completion. This support will include help with both job placements and self-employment opportunities. The project aims to build technical skills and foster innovation among minority youth, ultimately creating a skilled workforce that meets the demands of the industry.
Minister of State, Shri George Kurian while addressing the gathering, emphasised that PM VIKAS scheme is a flagship initiative of the Government of India focused on the socio-economic empowerment of minority communities through skill development and entrepreneurship promotion. He highlighted that such initiatives enhance employability, foster innovation, and contribute to the creation of sustainable livelihoods.
