As the world faces environmental challenges such as climate change, natural resource depletion and pollution, sustainable development is becoming increasingly important. India has made significant progress in sustainable development in recent years by promoting renewable energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving access to clean water and sanitation. One of the key initiatives by India towards sustainability is the Green Skill Development Programme (GSDP).
Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) launched GSDP in 2017 which is implemented through the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC). The programme aims to create a pool of skilled and certified workforce in the environment and forest sector, including biodiversity conservation, pollution management, and renewable energy. It focuses on providing training and certification in various “green skills” to the youth, particularly from rural and underprivileged communities for sustainable development of the country.
Green Skills
Green skills refer to the knowledge, abilities, and expertise required to develop and implement environmentally sustainable solutions in various industries and sectors. These skills are related to environmental protection, renewable energy like solar and wind energy, sustainable agriculture, waste management, and other areas that support sustainable development.
The GSDP has identified 80 different green skills that are in demand in India. These skills are categorized into various sectors like biodiversity conservation, environmental management and pollution control, renewable energy, energy efficiency, waste management, sustainable agriculture, climate change mitigation and adaptation, sustainable water management, eco-tourism, sustainable building designs and sustainable construction.
Dualistic Strategy
The GSDP has a two-pronged approach. On one hand, it provides training for enhancement of skills and knowledge to those who are already working in the environment sector, such as forest guards, park rangers, and environmental scientists. On the other hand, it aims to create a new workforce of skilled individuals who can contribute to better management amd conservation of environment in various sectors, such as waste management, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture etc.
National Skills Qualification Framework
The GSDP is designed to cater to the diverse needs of the industry and the environment sector, and is aligned with the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) to ensure standardization and recognition of skills.
Scope of GSDP
The GSDP has a wide scope and covers various regions and communities across India. It has partnered with several institutions, both government and non-governmental, to implement the program. These institutions include the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM), Wildlife Institute of India (WII), the Centre for Environment Education, and the National Institute of Solar Energy, among others. The program has also collaborated with state governments particularly the forest departments and pollution control boards to ensure that it reaches all regions of the country.
Benefits of GSDP
The GSDP has several benefits, both for individuals and for the country as a whole. For individuals, it provides an opportunity to gain new skills and knowledge in a growing sector. It also enhances their employability and opens up new job opportunities. For the country, it creates a skilled workforce that can contribute to it’s sustainable development. It also promotes the conservation and management of the environment.
The GSDP has helped contribute to the growth of green economy in India. According to a report by the NSDC, the programme has trained over 2 lakh candidates in various green skills, and has placed more than 60,000 candidates in jobs in the environment sector. The programme has also created self-employment opportunities for many of the trainees, who have started their own ventures in areas such as organic farming, eco-tourism, and renewable energy.
Recognition
The GSDP has also been recognized and appreciated by various national and international organizations for its innovative approach and impact. In 2019, the GSDP was awarded the Future Policy Gold Award by the World Future Council, in recognition of its contribution to sustainable development and green skills. The programme has also been acknowledged by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) as one of the best practice in green skills development.
Challenges
The GSDP has faced some challenges in its implementation. One of the challenges is the lack of awareness among the general public about the program. Besides, there is dearth of interest among the industry and employers in hiring green skilled workers. Another challenge is lack of adequate infrastructure and resources in some areas.
The GSDP is a step in the right direction. The programme has the potential to contribute significantly to India’s green economy and environmental conservation efforts. With the right support and resources, the GSDP can create a skilled and trained workforce that can drive sustainable development and contribute to the well-being of society, the country and the ecosystems.