#Higher disbursement scheme for PLI scheme

[apacnewsnetwork0]

PLI scheme for Pharma, drones and textiles to be modified by govt

New Delhi: The government is planning to make adjustments to the production-linked incentive PLI scheme for pharmaceuticals, drones, and textile sectors. According to an official statement, these modifications are intended to stimulate investment and bolster manufacturing. An official source has stated that these sectors were chosen on the basis of their performance under the existing scheme for various products.

Higher disbursement scheme for PLI scheme

The official said, “Disbursement of production-linked incentives (PLI) for white goods (AC and LED lights) would start this month and that would push the amount of disbursement, which was only Rs 2,900 crore till March 2023.”

After the identification of sectors, a combined note for approval from the Union Cabinet will be sent. The change in disbursement includes an extension of time for Pharma sectors, and addition of products in some sectors. Within the textile industry, there is a proposal to expand the scope of particular products within the technical textiles category, while in the drone sector, there is a plan to raise the incentive amount.

Read More here : https://apacnewsnetwork.com/2023/09/pli-scheme-for-pharma-drones-and-textiles-to-be-modified-by-govt/

[unchronicles]

Jammu & Kashmir in the Flood of Unemployment

Unemployment in Jammu & Kashmir has emerged as a grave socio-economic crisis. The region’s youth—particularly the educated segment—face increasing frustration in their quest for suitable employment. This article explores the latest statistics, underlying causes, government initiatives, and future strategies to address the alarming issue of unemployment in Jammu & Kashmir.

🔘Current Unemployment Statistics

Youth Unemployment (Ages 15–29): The unemployment rate among youth in J&K stands at 18.3%, significantly higher than the national average.

Overall Unemployment: The overall unemployment rate was 6.7% in 2019–20 and 5.9% in 2020–21, yet youth unemployment remains persistently high.

Educated Youth: Nationally, 42.3% of graduates under the age of 25 are unemployed, and the percentage in J&K is reportedly higher.

Women's Unemployment: While the national unemployment rate among women is 18.5%, it is presumed to be even higher in J&K due to cultural and structural barriers.

National Context: The current national unemployment rate is 9.2%, with urban unemployment peaking at 6.7%.

🔘Root Causes of Unemployment

1. Political Instability: Decades of conflict have hindered business operations and discouraged private investment.

2. Outdated Education System: Lack of emphasis on practical training and market-relevant skills leaves graduates unprepared.

3. Preference for Government Jobs: A disproportionate reliance on limited government positions hampers employment diversity.

4. Underdeveloped Private Sector: Sectors such as tourism, IT, and manufacturing remain underutilized.

5. High Dropout Rates: Early school dropouts result in a large, unskilled population lacking employability.

🔘Government Initiatives and Schemes

Despite several initiatives, challenges remain in bridging the employment gap:

Atmanirbhar Bharat Rozgar Yojana (ABRY): ₹35.39 crore disbursed to 19,340 beneficiaries in J&K.

PM Street Vendors Atmanirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi): 17,950 loans granted to support street vendors.

Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY): ₹4,209.69 crore distributed through 189,000 loan accounts.

Other Schemes: PMEGP, MGNREGS, DDU-GKY, and DAY-NULM are being implemented to create employment.

PLI Scheme: Aims to generate 6 million new jobs over five years, with expected benefits for J&K.

🔘Challenges to Implementation

Limited Ground-Level Impact: Government schemes have yet to significantly reduce unemployment.

Low Private Investment: Ongoing unrest deters potential investors.

Lack of Skills and High Dropout Rates: Youth remain unemployable due to lack of vocational training and early school exits.

🔘Recommendations and Solutions

To resolve the unemployment crisis in J&K, a multifaceted approach is essential:

1. Education and Skill Reform

Align curricula with industry needs.

Launch intensive training in IT, freelancing, digital marketing, and modern technologies.

2. Private Sector Development

Establish industrial zones and boost investment in tourism, agriculture, and tech.

Offer easy credit and mentorship for youth entrepreneurs.

3. Transparent Recruitment

Implement fast, fair, and merit-based recruitment in public and private sectors.

4. Anti-Corruption Measures

Eliminate corruption to ensure fair resource distribution and equal opportunity.

5. Rural Development

Modernize agriculture and encourage agro-based industries to create rural employment.

6. Startup Ecosystem

Promote startup culture by setting up incubation centers and providing financial and training support.

7. Integrated Policy Planning

Synchronize education and population policies with job market demands.

8. Youth Awareness and Counseling

Establish career counseling centers to guide youth towards diverse employment avenues beyond government jobs.

Conclusion

Unemployment in Jammu & Kashmir is not merely an economic issue—it is a deep-rooted social and psychological challenge. While government schemes offer hope, their grassroots impact remains insufficient. Long-term solutions lie in educational transformation, private sector empowerment, and holistic youth engagement. With coordinated efforts from the government, private sector, educational institutions, and youth themselves, J&K can pave the way towards sustainable development and a more secure future.

JAVAD AHMAD HURA, UN Educationist. || Chief Editor of Srinagar Samachar