'Recognition of Prior Learning Scheme' is sometimes mentioned in the news with reference to
A
Certifying the skills acquired by construction workers through traditional channels.
B
Enrolling the persons in Universities for distance learning programmes.
C
Reserving some skilled jobs to rural and urban poor in some public sector undertakings.
D
Certifying the skills acquired by trainees under the National Skill Development Programme.
Correct Answer: Option A
Explanation
1. The 'Recognition of Prior Learning Scheme' (RPL) is a component of the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), which falls under the broader umbrella of the National Skill Development Programme.
2. The primary aim of RPL is to formally acknowledge and certify the existing skills and knowledge that individuals have acquired through informal learning or work experience, i.e., through traditional channels outside formal training systems.
3. Option (A) accurately reflects this by stating it involves certifying the skills acquired by workers (like construction workers, who often learn on the job) through traditional channels.
4. Option (B) concerns distance learning programmes, which is unrelated to RPL.
5. Option (C) discusses reserving skilled jobs, which is a different policy domain.
6. Option (D) refers to certifying skills acquired by formal trainees within the National Skill Development Programme, whereas RPL focuses on learning gained *prior* to or outside such formal training.
7. Therefore, RPL is most accurately described by option (A).