JSS Zonal Conference and Stakeholder Consultation Concludes in Pune,

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) today concluded the two-day Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) Zonal Conference-cum-Stakeholder Consultation and Progress Review Workshop at Symbiosis Skill & Professional University, Pune, reaffirming the Government of India’s commitment to strengthening inclusive, community-driven skilling and sustainable livelihood creation for last-mile populations.

Organised by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), the conference witnessed participation from 152 Jan Shikshan Sansthans representing 11 States and Union Territories. The event brought together JSS practitioners, senior officials of MSDE, the Directorate of Jan Shikshan Sansthan, representatives from NIESBUD and academic partners to review progress, deliberate on systemic improvements and build institutional capacity within the JSS ecosystem.

The conference was chaired by Secretary, MSDE, Ms. Debashree Mukherjee, Additional Secretary, MSDE, Shri Nirajan Kumar Sudhanshu and other senior MSDE Officials placing strong emphasis on strengthening employability, entrepreneurship and livelihood outcomes.

Addressing the conference, Ms. Debashree Mukherjee said, “Jan Shikshan Sansthans are central to inclusive skilling in India. Our focus is to move from training to real outcomes by strengthening alumni connect, aligning skills with market demand and supporting entrepreneurship through finance and market linkages. By modernising traditional skills and scaling success stories, we aim to ensure that grassroots skilling leads to sustainable livelihoods, dignity and empowerment for women and marginalised communities.”

A JSS exhibition was organised as part of the conference, showcasing select best products developed by JSS beneficiaries from across regions. The exhibition highlighted the diversity of grassroots skills and local crafts nurtured under the scheme and provided a platform for sharing best practices and enhancing market visibility. The Secretary, MSDE, also visited the Skill Labs at Symbiosis Skill & Professional University, gaining exposure to modern training infrastructure and innovative approaches to vocational education.(updated on 20th january2026)