• Naveen Kumar Mahto

Rural skill development in Jharkhand, one of India’s most resource-rich yet socio-economically challenged states, faces several critical issues and challenges. This abstract discusses the key impediments to effective skill development in the region and explores potential strategies to overcome these barriers. Jharkhand, with its predominantly rural population, suffers from high levels of poverty, illiteracy, and underemployment. The state’s economy largely depends on agriculture, mining, and small-scale industries, which provide limited employment opportunities. The rural youth, who constitute a significant portion of the population, often lack access to quality education and vocational training, leaving them ill-equipped to compete in the job market. This lack of skills further perpetuates the cycle of poverty and unemployment, creating a significant challenge for the state’s development. One of the primary challenges in rural skill development in Jharkhand is the inadequate infrastructure. The rural areas are often characterized by a lack of basic facilities such as roads, electricity, and internet connectivity, which are essential for the effective delivery of training programs. Many rural regions are remote and difficult to access, making it challenging to establish and sustain training centres. Additionally, the lack of qualified trainers and training institutions further exacerbates the problem, as there is a limited pool of skilled professionals to impart vocational education. Another significant issue is the disconnect between the skills imparted through training programs and the demands of the local job market. Often, the training provided is not aligned with the needs of local industries, resulting in a mismatch that leaves trained individuals without suitable employment opportunities. This lack of alignment also discourages youth from participating in skill development programs, as they do not see a clear pathway from training to employment. Cultural and social factors also play a role in hindering rural skill development. In many rural areas of Jharkhand, there is a strong preference for traditional livelihoods, and there may be resistance to adopting new skills or occupations. Additionally, gender disparities further complicate the situation, as women in rural areas often face greater barriers to accessing education and training due to societal norms and responsibilities within the household. To address these challenges, a multifaceted approach is required. Improving infrastructure is a critical first step, including better transportation, electricity, and internet access in rural areas. Moreover, training programs must be designed in collaboration with local industries to ensure that the skills imparted are relevant and in demand. There is also a need for mobile training centres and online platforms to reach remote areas, making skill development more accessible. Further more, raising awareness about the importance of skill development and changing cultural attitudes toward non-traditional occupations is essential. This can be achieved through community engagement and by showcasing success stories of individuals who have benefited from skill development programs. Additionally, special focus should be given to empowering women and marginalized groups to ensure inclusive growth while there are significant challenges to rural skill development in Jharkhand, addressing these issues through targeted interventions can lead to substantial improvements. By investing in infrastructure, aligning training with market needs, and fostering a culture that values skill acquisition, Jharkhand can create a more skilled and employable rural workforce, driving the state’s socio-economic development forward.

Economic Development, Rural Human Resource Development, Skill Development, Challenges

"Rural Skill Development: Issues and Challenges in Jharkhand", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 9, page no.a290-a295, September-2024, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2409033.pdf

"Rural Skill Development: Issues and Challenges in Jharkhand", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 9, page no. ppa290-a295, September-2024, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2409033.pdf