Green Skills Development Programme Overview

Study Notes

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, launched the Green Skills Development Programme (GSDP) to equip India's youth with skills for employment and self-employment in the environment and forest sectors.
GSDP aims to develop green skilled workers possessing technical knowledge and a commitment to sustainable development, contributing to the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

A green job is employment in any industry that contributes to preserving or restoring environmental quality while promoting sustainable development.
These jobs may include protecting ecosystems and biodiversity, reducing energy, material, and water consumption through efficient strategies.
Green jobs can exist in all sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, research, and development.
They facilitate the transition from a high-carbon to a low-carbon economy by promoting environmentally friendly technologies.
The rise in green buildings and energy efficiency increases the demand for professionals such as architects, engineers, technicians, plumbers, and construction workers.

Green skills are essential for promoting green economies, balancing economic development with environmental conservation.
They ensure that societal, economic, and environmental needs are met efficiently with minimal environmental damage.

Green growth aims to achieve economic growth that is socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Government of India, recognizes green growth as a focal point for a green economy, alongside poverty eradication.
A green economy utilizes land sustainably, meeting human needs without causing environmental harm.
It involves using fewer resources, reducing pollution, and promoting growth for all.

India faces challenges in providing access to food, energy, water, and essential goods and services to its growing population.
The country needs to focus on alleviating poverty and fostering sustainable development.
Skill development for green jobs is crucial for transitioning to a sustainable green economy by aligning skill supply and demand.
Green jobs can exist in businesses, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and education institutions.
Specific green skills, like organic farming knowledge and solar technology skills, are required for certain green jobs.
Even jobs without specific green skill requirements, such as graphic designers or cashiers working for green companies, contribute to the development of green growth and economy.