‘Mikavu’ project: Kerala to upskill individuals enrolled under MGNREGS in multifarious fields

Kozhikode: Kerala has initiated a project named ‘Mikavu’ to upskill individuals enrolled under MGNREGS (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme) in multifarious fields. It is expected that the project will imbibe around one lakh individuals from across the state in the year 2021-22 and will equip them as experts in their respective field. The training is for the individuals who are in the age category of 18 to 50.

Notably, the pilot project has already started in different districts. Initially, four panchayats in each district will be selected for providing training. In Kozhikode district, training has been started in four panchayats- Chathamangalam, Karasseri, Panangad and Kottur. Once it is completed, the training will be gradually expanded to other panchayats too. It is expected that around 100 upskilled workers will be there in a panchayat.

In Kerala, there are 20.62 lakh individuals who are actively part of MGNREGS. In Kozhikode alone, there are 2 lakh individuals. A worker can earn Rs 291 per day through the scehem. The new project is likely to increase the number of work days.

Initially, the training will be given in small construction related activities such as construction of compost pit and asola tank. Similarly, individuals will be involved in setting up of hen coop and goat shed.

The plan is to gradually develop a team of upskilled workers who can be involved in various projects of the panchayat including MGNREGS works. The workers with expertise could be involved in building works and compound wall construction.

Meanwhile, Kerala Institute of Local Administration (KILA) is also extending its support for training. Those individuals who have acquired skills will get certificate from engineers in gram panchayats and block panchayats. Based on that, they will be involved in various works. An employment bank will be formed out of the trained pool. It is expected that it will ensure daily works and earnings.

According to TM Mohammed Jha, Joint Development Commissioner and Joint Program Coordinator of MGNREGS project in Kozhikode, the new project will be helpful for the families of the workers. About 99 percent of individuals enrolled in the MGNREGS scheme are women. When they get best earnings, it will be helpful for their families. Simultaneously, there will be change among youngsters,” he said.