NAVYA Scheme for Skilling Adolescent Girls launched in Sonbhadra, UP

The government of India has launched a pilot initiative named NAVYA(Nurturing Aspirations through Vocational Training for Young Adolescent Girls) to upskill and empower adolescent girls. The pilot project was formally launched at a function in Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh, on 24 June 2025.

Which Ministry has launched the NAVYA Scheme?

• The Union Ministry of Women and Child Development and the Union Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship have jointly launched the NAVYA scheme.
• Both Ministries will formalise their collaboration to institutionalise convergence on skilling efforts for adolescent girls under the NAVYA scheme..

Who launched the scheme at Sonbhadra? 

• The scheme was jointly launched by Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, and Smt. Savitri Thakur, Minister of State for Women and Child Development.
• They also distributed the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana and PM Vishwakarma certificates and interacted with the adolescent trainees.

Features of the NAVYA Scheme 

• It focuses on adolescent girls between the ages of 16 and 18 with a minimum qualification of Class 10.
• They will receive vocational training, particularly in non-traditional job roles. 
• This is expected to open new employment opportunities for them in emerging economic sectors. 
• The project aims to reach the underserved region of the country and the vulnerable section of society.
• Thus, it will initially be implemented in 27 districts of 19 states, including districts of northern states and the Aspirational districts.
• The success and strengths of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana and other flagship skill development schemes will inspire the NAVYA  programme.