Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Smt. Raksha Khadse, addressed a press conference today in New Delhi, where she deliberated on various initiatives undertaken by the Government of India for the youth. Additionally, she reviewed multiple facets of the sports sector. The key highlights are as follows:
India has witnessed unprecedented progress in youth empowerment since 2014, focusing on key areas such as employment generation, support for MSMEs, promotion of startups, formalization of the economy, encouragement of research and development, skill enhancement, and fostering sports excellence and fitness. These initiatives align with the vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” and “Aatmnirbhar Bharat,” paving the way for a developed India by 2047.
Key Highlights:
- Youth Development Priorities:
- The Union Budget 2024-25 allocated ₹3,442.32 crore for skill development, internships, and employment generation, marking a threefold increase from ₹1,219 crore in 2013-14.
- National Youth Policy 2014 provides a robust framework to maximize youth potential by 2030.
- Employment and Skill Development:
- Unemployment rate reduced to 3.2% in 2023-24.
- Initiatives like PMKVY (Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojna) and DDU-GKY (Deen Dayal Updhyay Gramin Kaushal Yojna) have trained millions, with significant employment outcomes.
- EPFO achieved record growth in July 2024 by adding 19.94 lakh net members.
- The highest growth was observed in the 18-25 age group, with 8.77 lakh net additions in July 2024. This marks the largest increase for this demographic since records began and reflects the continued trend of young people, mostly first-time job seekers, entering the organized workforce
- Around 3.05 lakh new female members joined EPFO in July 2024, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 10.94%.
- Maharashtra led among the States/UTs, contributing 20.21% of the total new members.
- Economic and Startup Growth:
- India now hosts 1.4 lakh recognized startups and 117 unicorns, making it the world’s third-largest startup hub.
- Schemes like PMMY (Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojna) and Stand-Up India have empowered entrepreneurs, especially women and marginalized communities.
- Sports and Fitness:
- Record-breaking performance at the 2024 Asian Games with 107 medals (with 28 gold).
- Enhanced investment in Khelo India and TOPS programs contributed to Olympic (6 medals) and Paralympic (29 medals) success.
- Khelo India Budget increased from 596 crore to 900 crore.
- Women Empowerment:
- Initiatives like the Nari Shakti Adhiniyam and Sukanya Samruddhi Yojana underscores the government’s commitment to gender equality.
India’s strides in youth-centric policies and initiatives highlight its commitment to fostering a robust and inclusive ecosystem, ensuring every young Indian contributes to nation-building.
Original News Source: Press Information Bureau
