ITANAGAR, Apr 17: An awareness workshop on the Special Pilot Initiative under the Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS), themed "Advancing Apprenticeship in the Northeastern Region", was organised by the Department of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Govt of Arunachal Pradesh, here on Friday.
The programme, covering Papum Pare district, marked the ninth such initiative conducted during this year, following similar outreach efforts in eight other districts.
Addressing the gathering, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Minister Nyato Dukam emphasised the growing importance of skill-based learning and called for a shift in societal mindset towards dignity of labour. He noted that in an increasingly competitive environment, skills are crucial for employability, adding that lack of practical expertise often limits opportunities in industries.
Encouraging youth to move beyond conventional job-seeking, Dukam urged them to become job creators. He highlighted various Central and State government schemes supporting entrepreneurship and self-reliance, while acknowledging existing awareness gaps. He appreciated the department for organising outreach programmes and expressed hope that such initiatives would inspire youth to contribute towards building a skilled and developed nation.
Tezu MLA and Advisor to the Minister, Dr Mohesh Chai stressed the need for a change in perception towards vocational professions. He pointed out that limited government employment opportunities necessitate greater focus on technical and trade-based careers such as plumbing, electrical work and mechanics.
Earlier, Deputy Director-cum-Nodal Officer for PM-NAPS, Gyati Kacho, outlined the key features of the scheme, describing it as an industry-led initiative that provides hands-on training in real work environments under expert supervision. He noted that the scheme is open to candidates from diverse academic backgrounds and plays a significant role in enhancing employability.
The workshop also featured presentations on the Chief Minister’s Soft Loan Scheme (CMSLS) and the Foreign Language Training Programme linked to overseas employment opportunities. Under CMSLS, eligible ITI pass-outs can avail collateral-free loans of up to Rs 3 lakh, along with subsidy and interest support, for income-generating activities. The foreign language programme offers opportunities for overseas placement, particularly in sectors like healthcare and hospitality, with government support covering training and related expenses.
Around 90 participants, including students from ITI Yupia and Sagalee, Dera Natung Government College and Rajiv Gandhi Polytechnic College, as well as pass-out trainees from ITIs in Balinong and Yupia, attended the workshop.
Representatives from training providers and Third Party Aggregators interacted with participants, highlighting available training pathways and employment opportunities, followed by an interactive Q&A session.
The initiative aims to bridge the gap between education and employment by equipping youth with industry-relevant skills and improving access to both domestic and global job markets.