In a landmark initiative aimed at enhancing skill development and employment opportunities, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has launched the North East Apprenticeship Pilot Scheme.
Union Minister Shri Jayant Chaudhary and Mizoram Chief Minister Shri Lalduhoma jointly inaugurated the program in Aizawl, Mizoram.
Anchored in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Ashta Lakshmi and Viksit Bharat, Viksit North East, the scheme seeks to provide structured, paid, and high-quality apprenticeship opportunities to youth across the North Eastern Region (NER).
North East Apprenticeship Pilot Scheme: Financial Support and Scope
The initiative seeks to support over 26,000 youth from the region with enhanced apprenticeship opportunities.
It offers an additional ₹1,500 per month for one year, supplementing the regular stipend provided under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS).
The government has allocated ₹43.94 crore for the pilot initiative, with ₹4 crore designated for outreach, capacity building, and project implementation.
The financial support ensures that mobility does not become a barrier, allowing apprentices to train both within and outside the North East.
Industry Exposure and Skill Development
Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary highlighted that the scheme will offer real industry exposure, helping youth gain hands-on experience.
It will allow them to step onto factory floors, understand modern industry dynamics, and develop skills that align with real-world demand.
“This is not just a training pathway—it is an accessible, open bridge to employment,” Jayant stated.
He highlighted the transparent mechanism that enables industries to engage with and evaluate talent early.
Women-Led Empowerment and Inclusivity
A defining aspect of the initiative is its focus on women’s participation.
The North East has historically championed gender-responsive skilling, and data from NAPS implementation reflects higher female participation in apprenticeship programs.
“The North East stands tall in championing women-led empowerment. At the policy level, we are committed to reinforcing this,” Jayant added.
He underscored the region’s leadership in gender-inclusive workforce development.
North East Apprenticeship Pilot Scheme: Implementation and Monitoring
The Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE), Guwahati, will play a key role in overseeing the implementation of the pilot scheme.
The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) will also contribute to ensuring effective execution and industry collaboration.
The program will be supported by State Skill Missions, Regional Directorates (RDSDEs), and local institutions, ensuring effective execution and measurable impact.
The Director of IIE will chair a monitoring committee responsible for overseeing the initiative.
The committee will include representatives from the Ministry of DoNER, state departments, and apprenticeship advisors to ensure effective implementation.
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