Punjab government has launched Skill Upgradation and Vocational Education Scheme for registered construction workers through the Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board. The scheme covers full course fees including admission and coaching costs, along with boarding and lodging expenses at recognised technical institutions like ITIs and polytechnic colleges.
This welfare scheme helps construction workers and their wards gain new technical skills without worrying about the cost. The Board also runs Recognition of Prior Learning programmes at construction sites and has set up Skill Development Centres in four major cities.
Skill Upgradation and Vocational Education Scheme – Introduction
BOCW Welfare Board under the Department of Labour, Punjab runs this scheme for registered construction workers. It provides financial support for skill training at approved institutions. Workers who complete training can also get tool kit assistance up to Rs. 5,000. The scheme is part of a larger set of 18 welfare schemes the Board offers to registered workers and their families.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Skill Upgradation and Vocational Education Scheme (P.B.O.C.W.W.B) |
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary States | Punjab |
| Category | Education & Learning |
| Target Beneficiaries | Registered construction workers and their wards |
| Sub Category | Scholarships and student finance |
| Benefit Type | Cash |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Department | Department of Labour |
Benefits
The scheme provides the following financial support to eligible workers:
- Full reimbursement of course fees covering both admission and coaching expenses at recognised ITIs and polytechnic colleges.
- Full coverage of hostel, boarding, and lodging charges during the training period.
- Tool Kit Scheme benefit up to Rs. 5,000 for purchase of tools after completing training under Skill Upgradation or RPL scheme. This can be availed again after every three years of membership.
Eligibility
To qualify for this scheme, you must meet the following criteria:
For Registration as a Building/Construction Worker:
- You should reside in Punjab.
- You should be an unorganised construction worker aged between 18 and 60 years.
- You should have worked in the building and construction sector for at least 90 days in the past year.
- Your monthly income should be Rs. 15,000 or less.
- You should not be a member of any other welfare fund or tax-paying individual.
- You must not have EPF, NPS, or ESIC memberships.
For Welfare Scheme Application:
- You must be a registered member under the Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board of Punjab.
- You should have secured enrollment for skill training in recognised technical institutions such as ITIs or polytechnic colleges.
- You must be depositing your monthly contribution regularly.
Application Process
You can apply for this scheme through the offline pathway by submitting forms to your local Labour Inspector or at the nearest Sewa Kendra.
STEP 1 – Download Form No. 28 for new registration if you are not yet registered with the Board. Submit it along with self-attested documents to your local Labour Inspector. Registration requires a one-time fee of Rs. 25 and monthly contribution of Rs. 10 for a period of 1 to 5 years.
STEP 2 – Once registered, download Form No. 44 (Performa) for the Skill Upgradation scheme and submit it to your local Labour Inspector along with required documents.
STEP 3 – The application will be verified by the committee at Sub-Divisional Level. After approval from the Deputy Commissioner, the benefit will be transferred to your bank account.
Important Links
- Check Registration Application Status
- Check Scheme Application Status Online
- Download Registration Card
- View All Forms and Procedures
Documents
Keep the following documents ready for your application:
- Age proof (or a self-declaration if unavailable).
- Residence proof and Aadhaar card.
- Bank Account details (Passbook or statement showing account number and IFSC).
- Dependent details.
- Employer’s Certificate (Form No. 28) confirming 90 days of work.
- Nomination Form (Form No. 27).
- A certificate from your training agency or institution for your vocational course.
References
- View Official Guidelines (All Welfare Schemes)
- About the Board
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Download Registration Form No. 28
- Download Form No. 44 (Performa)
- Download Employer’s Certificate Form No. 28
- Download Nomination Form No. 27
FAQ’s
Who is eligible to register as a beneficiary?
Any construction worker in Punjab aged 18 to 60 who has worked for at least 90 days in the previous year can register.
What is the registration fee?
The registration fee is a one-time payment of Rs. 25, followed by a monthly contribution of Rs. 10.
How do I apply for the scheme benefits?
Registered workers should use Form No. 44 to apply through their local Labour Inspector or nearest Sewa Kendra.
Which family members are covered?
Benefits extend to your spouse, minor children, and dependent parents or disabled adult children who rely solely on you.
What financial support does this scheme offer?
The scheme fully covers course fees (admission and coaching) and hostel or lodging costs during training. Workers who complete training can also get up to Rs. 5,000 for tool kit purchase.
Is there any online portal to check application status?
Yes, you can check your registration and scheme application status at the Board’s official portal using the Check Status links provided above.
What is the Recognition of Prior Learning scheme?
Under RPL, the Board provides Rs. 35 per hour per worker as incentive for skill training at construction sites under the supervision of Punjab Skill Development Mission.