A total of 1700 youths have so far been trained under the programme since its launch in 2012.
The 'Skill Development Programme' for youths in the naxal-affected district, aimed at making them financially independent, was recently bestowed with the prestigious 'Prime Minister's Award'.
A total of 1700 youths have so far been trained under the programme since its launch in 2012 in various areas and 1300 out of them are now either running their own enterprise or are employed in various sectors.
The six-month training in areas of automobile, construction and hospitality has boosted the potential of the unemployed youths.
Impressed by its success, the state government is now planning to replicate the programme in five more districts including Nagpur.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently presented the award to district collector Ranjeet Kumar, his predecessor Abhishek Krishna, chief conservator of forests TSK Reddi, district employment officer PB Deshmane and skill development officer YS Shende.
The award consisted of Rs 1 lakh cash, a memento and a certificate, a press release issued stated today.
The PM's award, started in 2005, has been given to those public servants who have done outstanding work.