The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India, will organize a two-day Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) Zonal Conference-cum-Stakeholder Consultation and Progress Review Workshop on January 19 and 20, 2026, at the Auditorium Hall of Symbiosis Skill and Professional University, Pune.
The conference will bring together representatives from 152 Jan Shikshan Sansthans across 11 States and Union Territories, along with officials from MSDE, the Directorate of Jan Shikshan Sansthan (DJSS), the National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD), and other key stakeholders.
The Jan Shikshan Sansthan Scheme, a Central Sector Scheme implemented through NGOs, focuses on providing non-formal vocational training to non-literate and neo-literate individuals, school dropouts, and marginalized sections, with special emphasis on women, SCs, STs, minorities, and disadvantaged groups. Currently, 294 JSSs are operational across 26 States and 7 UTs, offering training in 51 NSQF-aligned courses.
As of 31 December 2025, the scheme has trained over 34 lakh beneficiaries, including 28.3 lakh women, underlining its strong commitment to women-led development. Training is largely delivered at the doorstep level, especially in aspirational districts, tribal areas, LWE-affected regions, and remote locations.
The Pune conference will focus on reviewing physical and financial progress for FY 2025–26, holding structured stakeholder consultations, strengthening the capacities of JSS functionaries, identifying emerging and demand-driven skills including AI and digital tools, and enhancing employability and livelihood outcomes.
The event will also feature thematic capacity-building sessions, an exposure visit to modern skill laboratories, and a product exhibition showcasing best practices and locally developed JSS products.
The Valedictory Session on January 20 will be addressed by senior ministry officials, including Debashree Mukherjee, Secretary, MSDE, where key outcomes and recommendations will be consolidated to guide future strengthening of the JSS Scheme.
The Zonal Conference reflects MSDE’s continued efforts to expand the reach, quality, and impact of community-based skilling initiatives in line with the vision of inclusive growth and a skilled, self-reliant Bharat.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
