In a significant push toward women empowerment and the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, the Government of India today launched ‘NAVYA’ (Nurturing Aspirations through Vocational Training for Young Adolescent Girls) in Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh. The programme, spearheaded by the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) in collaboration with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), aims to equip adolescent girls aged 16–18 with practical, job-oriented skills, especially in non-traditional and emerging sectors.
The launch event was jointly presided over by Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge), MSDE, and Savitri Thakur, Minister of State, MWCD. The programme saw virtual participation from girls across the country, marking a strong nationwide engagement.
In its pilot phase, NAVYA is being rolled out across 27 Northeastern and Aspirational districts in 19 states. Each participating district has set up dedicated training centres, offering a range of vocational courses tailored specifically for adolescent girls. The courses include skills in graphic design, telecom and financial services, smartphone and drone assembly, solar PV and CCTV installation, as well as hand embroidery.
The training will be implemented using existing infrastructure and funding under MSDE’s flagship schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and PM Vishwakarma Yojana. Girls identified by the MWCD will undergo short-term courses designed to build technical proficiency, confidence, and in many cases, prepare them for entrepreneurship.
Speaking at the event, Jayant Chaudhary emphasized that NAVYA is not merely an employment initiative. ‘It is about building confidence, economic independence, and an entrepreneurial mindset among young girls, particularly in tribal and Aspirational districts like Sonbhadra,’ he said.
Savitri Thakur echoed this sentiment, calling the launch a milestone in India’s journey toward inclusive growth. ‘This initiative is a step forward in empowering adolescent girls to lead lives of dignity, independence, and self-reliance,’ she stated.
The event also featured certificate distribution ceremonies for trainees who completed courses under PMKVY and PM Vishwakarma schemes, alongside interactive sessions with beneficiaries who shared their personal stories of transformation through skill development.
With NAVYA, the government reinforces its commitment to inclusive development—ensuring that young girls, regardless of their background, are not only trained for today’s job market but also encouraged to dream and build a future on their own terms.
