Guwahati, May 20: In a significant move to enhance skill development in the Northeast, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has launched a ₹43.94 crore pilot scheme aimed at promoting apprenticeship training across the region. The initiative was jointly inaugurated in Aizawl by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Shri Jayant Chaudhary and Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma.

Under this pilot, over 26,000 youths from the Northeast will receive an additional ₹1,500 monthly stipend for one year, supplementing the existing support provided through the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS). This financial aid applies to apprentices undergoing training both within and outside the Northeast, ensuring that mobility does not hinder access to opportunities.

Minister Jayant Chaudhary emphasised the program’s potential to provide real industry exposure to the youth, stating, “This initiative opens doors for our youth to step onto the factory floor, understand contemporary industry dynamics, and align their skills with real-world demand.”

Highlighting the region’s commitment to gender inclusivity, Chaudhary noted the Northeast’s higher female participation in apprenticeship programs, positioning it as a model for gender-responsive skilling nationwide.

Chief Minister Lalduhoma expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating that the initiative would empower young citizens to find their rightful place in India’s evolving economic landscape, whether in the Northeast or elsewhere.

The Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE), Guwahati, and the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) will oversee the implementation, with support from State Skill Missions, Regional Directorates (RDSDEs), and local institutions.

Building upon the success of NAPS, which has facilitated over 42 lakh apprenticeship engagements since 2016, this pilot aims to serve as a scalable model for region-specific skilling interventions.

Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between NSDC and Welspun Living Limited to launch a high-impact pilot for apprenticeship-linked skilling in the textile sector. The program will train 1,000 youths, with at least 50% being women, through a blended model of classroom instruction and on-the-job training at Welspun’s facilities in Gujarat.

The event also featured a presentation on the recently approved National Scheme for ITI Upgradation, which aims to modernise 1,000 government ITIs across the country with a total outlay of ₹60,000 crore. The scheme is expected to benefit the Northeast by upgrading existing ITI infrastructure and aligning training with emerging industry requirements.

Also Read: All for the future: With 49% of its population under 20, Meghalaya bets big on youth power

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