The Skill Impact Bond, launched by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) in 2021, has successfully trained more than 29,000 first-time job seekers from low-income families across 18 sectors in 24 states and union territories wherein 73% of them have joined jobs. This initiative aims to equip 50,000 young Indians by bridging the gap between skilling and employment, where women account for 60% of the reach.
A key feature of the Skill Impact Bond is its strong gender-responsive approach. With 74% of trainees being women from low-income backgrounds, many with limited education and no prior work experience, the program has successfully engaged and retained these women in the workforce. Strategies such as family engagement, workplace familiarization, mobility support, and post-placement assistance have been instrumental in achieving these outcomes.
During his address, Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship said, “When thoughtful minds collaborate together, we don’t just invest; we build communities. We create pathways to better livelihoods, stronger families, and a more resilient nation. The Skill Impact Bond exemplifies this vision, having already trained nearly 29,000 first-time job seekers from low-income families across 24 states and union territories. It reflects true social responsibility by shifting focus from short-term inputs to long-lasting impact. With SIB 2.0, we aim to raise the bar, aligning with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of a future-ready, inclusive workforce that will propel India towards global leadership.”
While addressing the gathering, Shri Ved Mani Tiwari, COO (Officiating CEO), NSDC & MD, NSDC International said, “Skill Impact Bond has reached 29,000 lives across 24 states and 18 sectors with a 57% retention rate, aiming for 60%. Moving forward, the focus is on Employability, Employment, Income Enhancement, and Entrepreneurship. By leveraging digitalization and AI-driven innovations in healthcare, education, and beyond, SIB aligns with India’s $35 trillion economic vision for 2047, building a future-ready workforce and fuelling a more inclusive start-up ecosystem.”
Alongside National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), the Skill Impact Bond’s coalition of partners comprises the British Asian Trust, Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), JSW Foundation, HSBC India, Dubai Cares, United States Agency for International Development (USAID), UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), Dalberg Advisors, and Oxford Policy Management. The skill training is delivered on-ground by Learnet Skills Limited, Magic Bus India Foundation, and PanIIT Alumni Reach For India Foundation, all selected for their capacity to innovate, scale, and reach diverse target groups.