AI SummaryBlock Level Institute for Rural Skill Acquisition (BIRSA) is a Jharkhand government scheme that offers free, localized skill training to youth at the block level. In 2026, the state is expanding these training centers to cover all blocks, so more rural candidates can learn a trade close to home.
BIRSA runs under Mukhymantri Sarthi Yojana and is handled by the Department of Labour, Employment, Training and Skill Development, Jharkhand. Training is non-residential, and eligible trainees also get a travel allowance of ₹1,000 per month through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Block Level Institute for Rural Skill Acquisition (BIRSA) - Introduction
BIRSA was launched to make skill development easy to reach by setting up training centers at the block level. The scheme aims to establish centers across all 264 blocks in 24 districts of Jharkhand. Each center runs in a government or non-government building covering about 5,000 square feet.
Courses under the scheme match the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) levels I, II and III. Trainees can pick from trades such as sewing machine operator, rural mason, solar PV installer, beautician, electric vehicle service assistant, healthcare assistant and many more.
As per the official Jharkhand Skill Development Mission data, BIRSA has enrolled over 1 lakh candidates so far. More than 77,000 have been trained, over 56,000 assessed and around 53,000 certified, with close to 28,000 job offers made.
In January 2026, the state announced that Birsa Skill Centers will be set up across all blocks of Jharkhand to improve rural access. Multi-language training is also being added so that trained youth can find work in other states without facing language problems.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Block Level Institute for Rural Skill Acquisition (BIRSA) |
| Beneficiary State | Jharkhand |
| Scheme Type | Skill Development & Employment |
| Benefit Type | In Kind (Free Training & Material) plus travel allowance |
| Nodal Department | Labour, Employment, Training and Skill Development |
| DBT Applicable | Yes (₹1,000 per month travel allowance) |
| Official Website | jsdm.jharkhand.gov.in |
Benefits
BIRSA offers several advantages to help candidates build a career:
- Localized Training Centers: Learning centers are placed right at the block level, so candidates can attend without long-distance travel.
- Cost-Free Learning: Expert training and study handbooks are provided free of cost to eligible candidates.
- Travel Allowance: Trainees get ₹1,000 per month as a travel allowance through Direct Benefit Transfer to cover commuting costs.
- Employment Support: After training, candidates get support for job placement or guidance to start their own business.
Eligibility
To take part in this scheme, candidates should meet the following conditions:
Applicants must be permanent residents of Jharkhand. The general age limit is 18 to 35 years. For candidates belonging to SC, ST, OBC or Women categories, the age limit is extended up to 50 years. For example, if Ramesh, who belongs to the SC category, is 45 years old, he remains eligible for the training.
Application Process
Candidates can apply for the training either by visiting a nearby center or by registering online through the official portal.
Offline Application
Visit the nearest Training Service Provider Center under Mukhymantri Sarthi Yojana to register. Carry an Aadhaar card, as registration is Aadhaar-based and required.
Online Application
STEP 1 - Go to the official Jharkhand Skill Development Mission website and open the 'Registration' tab.
STEP 2 - Select 'Candidate Registration' and fill in personal details such as First Name, Last Name, Gender, Date of Birth and contact information.
STEP 3 - Submit the profile to receive a User ID and Password through email and SMS.
STEP 4 - Log in with these credentials and enter the OTP received on the mobile to activate the account.
STEP 5 - Complete the profile by uploading educational documents and contact preferences, then submit the application to the chosen Training Service Provider to finalize the registration ID.
Documents
Keep these documents ready for a smooth registration process:
- Aadhaar Card
- Educational Certificates
- Residential Proof (Domicile Certificate)
- Passport-sized Photograph
References
For more detailed guidelines, visit the official JSDM BIRSA page.
FAQ's
Who is eligible to apply for this scheme?
Residents of Jharkhand aged 18 to 35 years are eligible. For reserved categories (SC, ST, OBC and Women), the age limit is up to 50 years.
Is the training provided for free?
Yes, all training programs under this scheme are provided free of cost to eligible candidates.
Is there a residential requirement for the training?
No, the training is non-residential, meaning candidates can attend daily from home.
Do trainees get any allowance?
Yes, eligible trainees receive a travel allowance of ₹1,000 per month through Direct Benefit Transfer.
How many blocks are covered under the scheme?
The scheme aims to set up training centers across all 264 blocks in 24 districts of Jharkhand.
What infrastructure is required for training centers?
Training centers are required to maintain a minimum infrastructure of 5,000 square feet.
What type of trades are offered?
The scheme offers trades aligned with NSQF levels I, II and III, including solar, healthcare, beauty, construction and logistics courses.
How is daily attendance recorded?
Attendance is tracked systematically using an Aadhaar-enabled biometric system.
Can candidates select the trade they want to learn?
Yes, candidates can select their preferred trade after a counseling session that helps identify the best path for their skills.