Ministry of Minority Affairs has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Patna under the PM VIKAS (Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan) Scheme

**Executive Summary** On April 20, 2026, the Ministry of Minority Affairs signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Patna, under the PM VIKAS (Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan) Scheme. The initiative aims to enhance the employability of 600 minority youth from Bihar by providing technology-driven training in high-demand fields like AI and Business Analytics. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to bridge skill gaps and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities through partnerships with premier institutions. **Key Points / Main Content** **Strategic Training Initiative** * The MoU focuses on providing modern, technology-driven skilling interventions to minority youth. * 600 beneficiaries from the State of Bihar have been targeted for this specific program. * Training will be conducted by IIT Patna in emerging job roles, specifically "AI Technocrat" and "Business Analytics Executive." **Core Objectives of PM VIKAS Scheme** * Enhance employability and facilitate placement opportunities for participants. * Bridge the existing skill gap by providing industry-relevant training aligned with evolving market needs. * Ensure inclusive growth and empowerment through quality training, industry exposure, and improved career outcomes. **Expansion of Institutional Network** * The Ministry is actively expanding its network of premier institutions to deliver high-quality, industry-oriented skill development. * Recent collaborations under the PM VIKAS Scheme include MoUs with IIT Dharwad, NIT Manipur, CSIR–Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (Durgapur), and Arunachal Pradesh Forest Corporation Ltd. **Impact Analysis** **Minority Youth (Bihar)** **Impact** They receive access to high-quality, future-ready technical training from a premier national institution, significantly improving their employability and career prospects in the technology sector. **Action Required** Eligible youth need to participate in and complete the training programs for AI Technocrat and Business Analytics Executive roles. **IIT Patna** **Impact** The institution serves as a strategic training partner, responsible for delivering contemporary training frameworks and industry-relevant skills to a specific demographic. **Action Required** Develop and execute the training modules for 600 participants and facilitate industry exposure and placement opportunities. **Ministry of Minority Affairs** **Impact** The Ministry advances its objective of sustainable livelihood and empowerment for minority communities by leveraging the expertise of top-tier educational institutions. **Action Required** Oversee the implementation of the MoU and continue building a network of partner institutions to scale the PM VIKAS Scheme.

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