The Directorate of Craftsmen Training (DCT) in Manipur, operating under the Skill, Labour, Employment & Entrepreneurship (SLEE) Department of the Government of Manipur, has organized an ongoing workshop focused on the Prime Minister’s National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS) at the Kakching Municipal Council auditorium in Kakching District. This initiative, overseen by N. Bandana Devi, IAS, Secretary of the SLEE Department, and organized with the guidance of Longjam Subhaschandra Singh, Joint Director (HOD) of DCT, is designed to enhance understanding among establishments, institutions, and youth concerning apprenticeship opportunities provided by PM-NAPS.
The workshop illustrates a crucial approach that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction, offering financial incentives to employers through reimbursements of a portion of the stipend paid to apprentices. This scheme encourages engagement from both public and private sector entities, thus fostering a collaborative environment for skill development.
Throughout the workshop, participants were engaged in short video presentations and heard from a technical expert who addressed crucial aspects of skill development and industry requirements. Interactive sessions were held to facilitate discussions with industry establishments, college students, and ITI trainees regarding various apprenticeship opportunities, registration processes, and the advantages afforded by PM-NAPS.
The overarching goal of this initiative is to increase employability rates, enhance the connection between industry and educational institutions, and boost apprenticeship involvement specifically within the Kakching District. By doing so, it aims to contribute significantly toward developing a skilled and employable workforce that aligns with the broader national skill development objectives.