Union Minister for Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan, celebrated Republic Day by acknowledging and interacting with over 100 skilled entrepreneurs who have successfully undergone training under various skill development institutions. The entrepreneurs, trained through programs like the National Institute of Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD), Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE), and Skill India’s flagship scheme – Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), have emerged as key contributors to India’s vision of becoming a nation of job creators.
During the event, Minister Pradhan expressed his appreciation for the entrepreneurial spirit and dedication of those trained under the skill development initiatives. He highlighted the significance of these entrepreneurs being honored as guests at the Republic Day celebrations for the first time, attributing it to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Minister Pradhan commended the small and micro-entrepreneurs for their inspiring journey towards self-reliance, emphasizing their crucial role in contributing to the country’s development. He expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister and the government for their commitment to comprehensive skill development, socio-economic security, and empowering the deprived and weaker sections of society.
The event also featured Shri Nirmaljit Singh Kalsi, President of the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET); Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE); and Smt. Trishaljit Sethi, Director General of the Directorate General of Training (DGT).
Entrepreneurs shared insights into how Skill India Mission training enhanced their capacities, problem-solving abilities, and market differentiators. They expressed gratitude for on-the-job training and industry exposure provided by the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship.
Several entrepreneurs were invited to share their experiences on stage. Notable among them was Shital Tamang from South Sikkim, who narrated her journey with Sikkim Handloom and Handicrafts. Other entrepreneurs, including Indrajit Sadhukhan, Mr. Sanjeet, and Jyotirmayee Sahu, shared inspiring stories of overcoming challenges and achieving success through skill development.
The event also showcased government initiatives like PM Vishwakarma and Skill India Digital (SID), designed to bridge the academia-industry gap and develop entrepreneurial skills aligned with the evolving needs of industries.
Entrepreneurs from diverse corners of the nation, representing industries such as beauty & wellness, handmade products, tailoring, sewing machine operation, and computer operation, attended the Republic Day Parade. Minister Pradhan emphasized the role of MSDE’s initiatives in creating a conducive environment for growth, job creation, and efficiency, positioning India as a leading startup ecosystem.
As the government continues to focus on outcome-driven and industry-relevant skill development, these initiatives aim to transition India to the forefront of the global startup ecosystem in the coming years.
