National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), under the aegis of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), has signed an MoU with Pernod Ricard India – a fast-growing multinational alcohol beverage company – to roll out project ‘Livelihood Creation’ in line with the mission to create an inclusive skill ecosystem in India. The unique programme is aimed at providing skill training to 240 transpersons on market-driven courses in Mumbai, enabling them to integrate harmoniously into society by making them employable and future-ready.
The MoU was signed between Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO, NSDC and Yashika Singh, Executive Vice President – Corporate Affairs, Communications, CSR and S&R, Pernod Ricard India. The Livelihood Creation project aims to bridge the gender-based skill gap and address stigma, abuse, and discrimination against transgenders.
It will also raise awareness among stakeholders and develop sustainable livelihood approaches and capacity building programmes. According to the Census 2011 report, only 65% of transgenders were able to find work for more than six months, compared to 75% in the general population. Speaking on the occasion, Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO, NSDC said, “At NSDC, we envision a dignified livelihood for every individual, and investing in the development of the transgender community is a crucial step towards achieving a more inclusive and progressive society.”