4.5 crore youth to be trained in employable skills by 2022

Mumbai: Describing youth as the future of India, Maharashtra Governor C Vidyasagar Rao said the state government has set a target of training 4.5 crore youth in employable skills by 2022. "Youth are the future of this nation. The state government has set an ambitious target of equipping 4.5 crore youth with employable skills under the National Skill Development Mission by 2022. This will help in creating 45 lakh skilled people every year," Rao said addressing a gathering on the 66th Republic Day at Shivaji Park here.

On the occasion, he unfurled the tricolour and reviewed the ceremonial parade. "A separate department of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship will be set up to help in creating trained workforce as well as entrepreneurs," he said. The state government has launched 'Operation Kayapalat' to rejuvenate the Primary Health Centres across the state and to provide quality health services to citizens throughout the year, he said.

"The scheme will focus on maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in the rural health centres. A successful beginning has been made in Pune and Kolhapur districts. The government will encourage private companies to take up this activity as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility," he said. The state government is committed to building a world-class national monument of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the Arabian Sea, the Governor said. "I also reiterate the resolve of my government to build a grand memorial of Bharat Ratna Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar at Indu Mill in Mumbai," he said.

As part of its commitment to empower women, the government will set up Jijau Hostels equipped with all the modern amenities for college-going girls and workingwomen at taluka levels, Rao said. "The state is taking a series of measures to improve the safety and security of its citizens. The government has adopted a zero tolerance policy against corruption, crime and indiscipline. The government is also committed to curbing cyber crime and crime against dalits and women," he said.