Urgent need to bridge the skill gap in youth: Vice President

''This is critical to accelerate India's economy in the coming years,'' he said. 

In this regard, Naidu called upon the leaders in the industry and social sector to supplement the efforts of the government in training and skill development such as the Kaushal Vikas Yojana, Udaan, among others, an official release quoted him as having said. 

Urging the industry to take up skilling people as a 'noble social mission', he appreciated the efforts of Indian companies, which have been imparting such vocational training through their corporate social responsibility and generating sustainable livelihoods for many poor people. 

He also noted the crucial role of skilling in uplifting and empowering women financially and socially. 

Visiting the GMR Varalakshmi Foundation's Centre for Empowerment and Livelihoods here, the Vice President interacted with the staff and the participants undergoing training at the centre.  

He suggested that skill up-gradation must also match the emerging demands of the 21st century in order to remain competitive in the job market. 

He advised the trainees to be abreast with the latest technological developments. 

Later, he also visited GMR Chinmaya Vidyalaya and interacted with the teachers and students. 

The founder-chairman of GMR Group, Grandhi Mallikarjuna Rao, officials and staff of the GMR Varalakshmi Foundation and others were present during the visit, the release said.