Dignitaries Emphasize Skill Development, Apprenticeship, and Welfare Schemes for Labourers.
Rajouri: A vibrant and well-attended Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Mela (PMNAM) was organized today at Industrial Training Institute (ITI) Rajouri, aimed at connecting job-seeking youth with various industrial establishments and promoting awareness about apprenticeship programs under the Government of India’s Skill India Mission.
The event was graced by the Chief Guest Javaid Iqbal Choudhary, Hon’ble MLA Budhal, who lauded the efforts of ITI Rajouri and the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship for organizing such a valuable initiative. In his speech, the MLA stressed the importance of skill enhancement in shaping the future of the youth and urged industries to come forward in providing apprenticeship opportunities to local students. He encouraged students to become job creators rather than job seekers by utilizing the training and platforms provided by ITIs and the government.
Among the distinguished guests present at the event were:
Pradyot Gupta, Assistant Labour Commissioner, who highlighted various labour welfare schemes and services available for workers. He informed that children of registered labourers are entitled free education assistance under labour welfare schemes, a key provision aimed at uplifting the families of labour-class communities.
Haji Mohd Shafi, President, Industrial Association Rajouri, expressed his association’s willingness to support and absorb skilled manpower from local ITIs, promoting local employment.
Ashish Langer, Managing Director Concrete Design, spoke about the industry’s requirements for skilled workers and how apprenticeships help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical industry experience.
Mumtaz Ahmed, Tourist Officer, emphasized the growing opportunities in the tourism and hospitality sectors and encouraged students to explore these sectors through vocational training and apprenticeships.
The event was coordinated by Ankush Sharma, PMNAM Coordinator, who delivered a detailed presentation on the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and its twin benefits for both employers and apprentices. He explained the registration process, incentives for industries, and how students can use this platform to gain valuable industry exposure while continuing their education.
The organizer and host of the event, Ujwal Mahajan, Principal ITI Rajouri, welcomed the guests and participants, highlighting ITI Rajouri’s commitment to quality skill training and industry partnerships. In his vote of thanks, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the dignitaries, industry representatives, students, and staff for their active participation and support in making the event a grand success. He reiterated the institute’s mission to align vocational education with industry needs and national priorities.
Several stalls were set up by local industries and training partners to facilitate direct interaction between students and potential employers. On-the-spot registration for apprenticeship programs were also
conducted, and many students shown keen interest in joining various sectors such as manufacturing, interior design, tourism, and services.
The event concluded with networking sessions and one-on-one counseling of students, offering them a better understanding of career prospects through apprenticeships. The PMNAM Mela at ITI Rajouri proved to be a significant step towards youth empowerment, industrial collaboration, and socio-economic up-liftment through skill development.
