Chhattisgarh approves Rs 500 crore NIPUN Mission for youth skilling, tech labs

The Chhattisgarh government has approved a Rs 500 crore mission aimed at preparing the state's youth for new-age industries and emerging technologies. The 'Chief Minister Startup and New-Age Industry Preparedness through Up-skilling of New Generation Youth (NIPUN) Mission' was cleared at a recent Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai.

The five-year initiative will establish Entrepreneurship Development Centres in all 33 districts and set up 100 Emerging Technology Labs. These labs are designed to give young people hands-on exposure to fields such as Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, the Internet of Things (IoT), big data analytics, AR/VR, blockchain, fintech and enterprise technology. The focus is on practical experimentation and developing technology-based solutions, rather than limiting learning to theoretical knowledge.

Officials noted that the labs could also open up opportunities for startups working in sectors relevant to Chhattisgarh's local economy, including health-tech, agri-tech, green technology, mining-tech and other technology-driven solutions to local challenges.

A key component of the mission is the NIPUN JOB Engine, which will create a direct link between industry requirements and the skills of young job seekers. The mission adopts an integrated approach, bringing together startups, skill development, emerging technologies and employment within a single ecosystem.

Under the mission, youth will get opportunities to develop business ideas, acquire relevant skills, gain hands-on experience in new technologies, and either secure industry employment or start their own ventures. The emphasis is on building an industry-ready and technology-ready workforce, going beyond mere training and certification.

In the same Cabinet meeting, the government also approved the 'Chhattisgarh Export Promotion Policy 2026-30', aimed at benefiting the state's business community.