In a step to boost bilateral relations, India and France have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration in the fields of skills development, vocational education, and training in the key sectors of the economy. The MoU was signed at the Bharat SkillNXT 2025, being held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on 22 July 2025.

Who signed the MoU?

The MoU was signed by Jayant Chaudhary, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship & and Minister of State for Education and the French Ambassador to India Thierry Mathou.

The agreement was signed in the presence of the Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology, Jitin Prasada and the Union Minister of State for Education, Dr Sukanta Majumdar.

Highlights of the MoU between India and France

The aim of the MoU is to create a pool of trained workforce that can meet the demand of the Indian and French economy in key sectors.

The MoU has identified key sectors of mutual interest, including aeronautics, hospitality, energy, media, fashion, and art and crafts, for skills development, vocational education, and training.

The MoU will also promote internships and apprenticeships in India and France, with a special focus on increasing women's participation.

It proposes the establishment of a Franco-India vocational campus that will connect the Indian training centres with the French vocational system.

Implementation of MoU

To implement the MoU, a Working Group will be set up, co-chaired by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and the French Embassy in New Delhi.

Collaboration between Institutes

The Directorate General of Training, under the Union Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, and the French Institute Campus des Métiers et des Qualifications will partner in implementing the MoU.

Bharat SkillNXT 2025

On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the Skill India Mission, the Union Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship organised Bharat SkillNxt 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on 22 July 2025.

The Skill India Mission was launched by the Government of India in 2015 to create a trained workforce in India that meets the industry's needs and contributes to the country's economic development.

The nodal ministry for implementing the Skill India Mission is the Union Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, which was established on 9 November 2014 by the Narendra Modi government.

Also Read: Union Cabinet extends Skill India Programme till 2026