New Delhi: In a transformative push for youth employment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the launch of the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana during his Independence Day address on August 15, 2025, from the Red Fort. This ambitious ₹1 lakh crore initiative, aimed at generating over 3.5 crore jobs within two years, is set to reshape India’s job market by offering financial incentives to first-time employees and employers. With an outlay of approximately ₹99,446 crore, the scheme is a cornerstone of the government’s Viksit Bharat vision for a developed India by 2047.
A Mega Employment Initiative for India’s Youth
The Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, implemented under the Ministry of Labour and Employment in collaboration with the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), targets both first-time job seekers and employers to foster sustainable job creation. Launched on India’s 79th Independence Day, the scheme is effective from August 15, 2025, and applies to jobs created between August 1, 2025, and July 31, 2027. It is projected to benefit 3.5 crore youth, with 1.92 crore being first-time entrants into the workforce, making it one of the most significant employment-linked reforms in recent history.
Prime Minister Modi described the initiative as a “double Diwali celebration” for the youth, emphasizing its role in economic empowerment. “There is big news for the youth of the country,” he declared during his speech, broadcast live on platforms like YouTube and DD News. “On this day, we are starting and implementing a scheme of ₹1 lakh crore for the youth of my country. Under this scheme, young men and women getting their first job in the private sector will receive ₹15,000 from the government.”
The program’s dual focus on supporting first-time employees and incentivizing employers ensures a holistic approach to job creation, particularly in sectors like manufacturing. With its alignment to the Viksit Bharat mission, the scheme aims to drive inclusive and sustainable employment generation across India.
Part A: ₹15,000 Incentive for First-Time Employees
The Part A component of the scheme is designed to ease the transition of young Indians into the formal job market. It targets first-time employees registered with the EPFO who earn salaries of up to ₹1 lakh per month. Eligible employees will receive a one-month EPF wage incentive, capped at ₹15,000, disbursed in two instalments:
- First instalment: Payable after six months of continuous service.
- Second instalment: Disbursed after 12 months of service and upon completion of a mandatory financial literacy programme.
To encourage financial discipline, a portion of the incentive will be deposited into a savings instrument or fixed-period deposit account, which beneficiaries can withdraw at a later date. This feature aims to promote savings habits among young workers, ensuring long-term financial stability.
Payments will be processed through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) using the Aadhaar Bridge Payment System (ABPS), ensuring transparency and efficiency. “The son or daughter who gets their first job will be given ₹15,000 by the government,” PM Modi announced, highlighting the scheme’s role in making the job market more accessible and rewarding for fresh entrants.
Part B: Financial Support for Employers
The Part B component incentivizes employers to expand their workforce, with a special focus on the manufacturing sector. Employers registered with the EPFO who hire additional employees earning up to ₹1 lakh per month are eligible for financial support. The key features include:
- Incentive: Up to ₹3,000 per month per additional employee for two years, provided the employment is sustained for at least six months.
- Manufacturing sector: Incentives are extended to the third and fourth years to encourage sustained job creation in this critical industry.
- Eligibility criteria: Establishments with fewer than 50 staff must hire at least two additional employees, while those with 50 or more must hire at least five. The additional hires must be maintained for a minimum of six months.
Payments to employers will be directly transferred into their PAN-linked bank accounts, ensuring a streamlined and accountable process. “Companies that create more employment opportunities will also be given incentive amounts,” PM Modi noted, underscoring the scheme’s aim to reward job creators.
Eligibility and Application Process
For those searching “who is eligible for Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana,” the criteria are clear:
For Employees (Part A):
- Must be a first-time employee registered with EPFO.
- Salary up to ₹1 lakh per month.
- Completion of six months (for first instalment) and 12 months of service plus a financial literacy programme (for second instalment).
For Employers (Part B):
- Hire additional employees with salaries up to ₹1 lakh.
- Meet minimum hiring thresholds: two new hires for establishments with fewer than 50 staff, or five new hires for those with 50 or more.
- Sustain employment for at least six months.
- Extended incentives for manufacturing sector employers.
While detailed application guidelines are yet to be fully released, the process is expected to involve EPFO registration, Aadhaar linkage for DBT payments, and PAN details for employers. Interested individuals and businesses should monitor official government portals for updates on “how to apply for PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana.” Preparing documents like EPFO enrollment proofs and salary details in advance is recommended.
Aligning with Viksit Bharat and Broader Economic Goals
The Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana is a pivotal part of the government’s Viksit Bharat initiative, which envisions a developed and inclusive India by 2047. By providing ₹15,000 to first-time jobholders and up to ₹3,000 per month to employers, the scheme addresses critical challenges like youth unemployment and skill gaps. Its focus on financial literacy and savings instruments empowers young workers to make informed financial decisions, while extended incentives for manufacturing employers align with India’s industrial growth objectives.
During his address, PM Modi also highlighted India’s progress in the semiconductor sector, announcing that the first ‘Made-in-India’ semiconductor chip will be launched by the end of 2025. With six operational units and four new units approved, this “mission mode” approach complements the Rozgar Yojana by creating opportunities in high-tech industries.
Economic Impact and Expectations
The scheme is poised to create a significant economic ripple effect, with 3.5 crore jobs transforming livelihoods across India. Of these, 1.92 crore will be first-time entrants, marking a major step toward inclusive growth. “This is my gift to the youth – a double Diwali celebration,” PM Modi said, framing the initiative as a driver of economic empowerment and national progress.
The program’s emphasis on manufacturing could accelerate industrial expansion, while the financial literacy component ensures long-term benefits for beneficiaries. Analysts predict that the scheme will boost India’s job market, particularly in the private sector, and support the government’s goals of self-reliance, entrepreneurship, and skill development.
Challenges and Next Steps
Successful implementation will require seamless coordination between the Ministry of Labour and Employment, EPFO, and private sector stakeholders. Ensuring timely DBT payments via ABPS and PAN-linked accounts will be critical to maintaining trust. As searches for “PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana benefits” and “₹15000 first job aid” dominate online trends, the government is expected to launch dedicated helplines or apps to address queries and prevent misinformation.
With registration set to open soon, millions of young Indians and businesses are gearing up to benefit from this transformative initiative. For the latest updates on “Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana latest news” and “how to get ₹15000 incentive,” stay tuned to official government announcements.
Conclusion
The Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana marks a bold step toward empowering India’s youth and driving job-led development. With its ₹1 lakh crore investment, focus on 3.5 crore jobs, and incentives for both employees and employers, the scheme promises to redefine India’s employment landscape. As the nation celebrates its 79th Independence Day, this initiative stands as a beacon of hope, paving the way for a prosperous and inclusive future.
