Mumbai: In a significant move ahead of the 2024 Assembly Elections in Maharashtra, the state government is set to introduce a monthly stipend scheme for young graduates and students. The Mukhya Mantri Yuva Karyaprashikshan Yojana aims to provide skill training and boost employability by offering internships in various industries.

The scheme, announced during the state budget as part of a series of welfare initiatives, received Cabinet approval on Monday. It is expected to benefit around 10 lakh youths and will require an investment of approximately Rs 10,000 crore.

An official from the Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation Department explained that the stipend amount will vary based on the qualifications of the beneficiaries. Class 12 graduates will receive Rs 6,000 per month, diploma holders Rs 8,000, and graduates and post-graduates Rs 10,000. Participants can work in any business or non-profit organization of their choice for a six-month period.

To facilitate the application process, the state plans to develop a mobile application, with offline centers also being established to assist with registrations. Beneficiaries will undergo a week-long training in soft skills and domain-specific knowledge. Currently, the government has not set any filtering or qualifying criteria, potentially allowing all applicants to receive aid.

In an effort to maximize the scheme's impact, the government intends to appoint 50,000 youths as 'ambassadors' to help expedite the program's implementation. These ambassadors, who will also receive stipends, will raise awareness about the scheme and serve as intermediaries between beneficiaries and recruiting firms.

The initiative is expected to be a major factor in the upcoming state elections, as the government seeks to address youth unemployment and enhance job readiness among Maharashtra's young population.