Jan Shikshan Sansthan Nalanda
In the post-independence era, rapid population growth led to migration and excessive pressure on urban areas. Due to the lack of proper education and vocational/technical skills, a large number of migrants remained unemployed or under-employed. Even those who were employed struggled with low income levels that made it difficult to sustain their families.
To address this, the Ministry of Education and Culture, Government of India, launched the Shramik Vidyapeeth scheme in 1967 — a programme of Adult Education meant for workers in urban and industrial areas. These institutions were conceived as centers for educational and vocational training for various groups of adults and youth.
Over time, especially after the mass literacy campaigns, Shramik Vidyapeeths diversified their activities to include vocational and skill development programmes for neo-literates in both rural and urban areas, as well as equivalency programmes through open learning systems.
In the year 2000, Shramik Vidyapeeths were renamed as Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) and placed under the Ministry of Human Resource Development. Later, in FY 2018–19, the scheme was transferred to the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India.
Major Objectives
- To improve the occupational skills and technical knowledge of neo-literates and trainees, thereby raising their efficiency and productivity.
- To organize training and orientation programmes for resource persons and master trainers involved in skill development under continuing education for neo-literates, school drop-outs and non-literates.
- To expand understanding of social, economic and political systems and create critical awareness about the environment.
- To promote national goals such as secularism, national integration, population development, women's equality, and environmental protection.
Activity Areas
JSS Nalanda organizes vocational skill development training programmes based on local market needs, resource availability and employment potential.
In addition, JSS conducts socio-economic awareness programmes covering topics such as HIV/AIDS, maternal care, reproductive health, SHG development, nutrition, drug abuse, and other social issues. Special occasions are also observed in alignment with national priorities like secularism, social development and national integration.
Present Status
Currently, 289 Jan Shikshan Sansthans are operating across India, including 21 in Bihar. Established in 2002–03, JSS Nalanda is one of the oldest and most active JSS units in the state.
- Every year, JSS Nalanda organizes vocational training courses in nearly 13–14 trades for neo-literates and school drop-out youth aged 15 to 40 years.
- More than 85% of beneficiaries are females, primarily from rural backgrounds.
- Over 75% of trainees belong to SC/ST, OBC, Minority and BPL categories.