The Mukhyamantri Yuva Karya Prashikshan Yojana, which Chief Minister Eknath Shinde referred to as "Ladka Bhau" at a public event in Pandharpur, is a significant initiative aimed at empowering unemployed youth in Maharashtra. This internship scheme, modeled after the successful 'Ladki Bahini Yojana', is set to allocate Rs 5,500 crore to provide practical training and enhance employability among young people.
Eknath Shinde emphasized the inclusivity of the scheme, despite his colloquial reference to 'ladka bhau', clarifying that it is not exclusively for men. Under this initiative, participants who have completed Class 12 will receive Rs 6,000 per month, while those with ITI or diploma qualifications will receive Rs 8,000, and graduates will receive Rs 12,000 per month during the internship period.
The scheme, announced in the Budget 2024-25 and administered by the Department of Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation in collaboration with the Chief Minister's Welfare Cell, aims to bridge the gap between education and employment by equipping youth with necessary skills. Eligible candidates, aged between 18 and 35 and residents of Maharashtra, will undergo six-month internships, receiving stipends through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Employers interested in participating must meet stringent criteria, including registration in Maharashtra, a three-year establishment record, and compliance with various regulatory bodies such as EPF, ESIC, GST, DPIT, and Udyog Aadhaar.
The scheme has garnered support from Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, who has advocated for gender-neutral policies in welfare initiatives, echoing the sentiment that both young women and men should benefit equally from such programs.
