New Delhi: In Budget 2024-25 Tourism sector has been allocated about Rs 2,478 crore, similar to Rs 2,400 crore allocated last year in FY24. The exact amount for each scheme is yet to be declared however, there is a huge emphasis for Skill Development Mission which has received additional funding to expand its reach and effectiveness. This includes setting up new training centers and upgrading existing ones with modern equipment and technologies. To prepare the workforce for future, the budget allocates substantial resources for training in Future Skills job roles.
In her budget speech, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said efforts were being made to position India as a global tourism destination to unlock economic opportunities.
A major thrust is on youth empowerment through skill development. The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) has been revamped with new courses aligned with industry requirements. Additionally, internship and apprenticeship opportunities will be increased to provide hands-on experience. Special funds will be allocated for this.
Chairperson, Tourism & Hospitality Council, Jyoti Mayal says, 'I am happy to say that the Budget 2024 has placed significant emphasis on skill development to address the evolving needs of the workforce and to ensure that the economy remains competitive in a rapidly changing global environment.'
Jyoti Mayal, who is also President Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) besides being member of various other apex trade bodies, said, 'The budget will help build a dedicated workforce for all Industry and specially the Tourism & Hospitality sector which has bounced back aggressively post Covid-19 Pandemic. Infrastructure development will lead to increase in domestic tourism which will further ask for skilled workers.'
'This budget presents unique opportunities to align the schemes directly with Industry & Private sector and take it to the last mile stone. I congratulate the government & Hon Finance Minister for looking at the Youth, Skill Gaps & unemployment,' said Mayal.
The budget proposes various upskilling and reskilling initiatives for the existing workforce. These programs aim to ensure that workers can adapt to new roles and technologies, thereby increasing their employability and productivity, expansion of training centers, enhancement of curriculum, and introduction of new courses in cutting-edge technologies. It also aims at collaboration with state governments and private sector partners to establish new centers in underserved regions.
PMKVY-Budgeted Allocation close to Rs 12,000 crore for Revamping and scale up the scheme will include new age courses and increase the number of beneficiaries. More focus on industry-aligned training programs and an increase in the number of internships and apprenticeships with 500 top Indian companies.
