IT News
Imphal, Oct. 22
Labour & Employment, Minister Thokchom Radheshyam said that the apprenticeship training is one of the most efficient ways to develop skilled manpower. Human resource is the true source for progress of the country. Participants of the training should take the opportunity to gain knowledge and clarify their doubts.
He expressed that India’s median age at present is 27 years and if the youth population are skilled, then the economic output of the country would be enormous. Readiness to solve any problem is the quality of a skilled individual. Thus it is important to become a skilled individual for betterment of the society. Skill upgradation is important to remain relevant and is necessary that each and every individual improve their skill. Every profession has its own unique specification and specialization and it is important that one keep on updating oneself with the latest knowledge.
The Minister was speaking at the Apprenticeship Pakhwada, an Apprenticeship Awareness Programme organized by the Manipur Society for Skill Development (MSSD). The programme was held at Classic Hotel, Imphal yesterday. Keeping in view the importance of Apprenticeship Training, the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme was launched on 19th August 2016. The main objective of the scheme is promoting apprenticeship training and to increase the engagement of apprentices from 2.3 lakh during August 2016 to 50 lakh cumulatively by year 2020.
Th. Radheshyam said that advancement and changes in technology is happening very fast and is a need that one keeps tap with the development. The end where one idea ends is where the ideas of new innovation are conceived. Technology has its negative factor but when in safe hands it becomes a boon making the earth a heaven. It is every individual’s responsibility to make the world a better place irrespective of where one lives.
MSSD, Mission Director, W. Malemnganba Chenglei said that to promote apprenticeship training the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) was approved by the GOI. The scheme of NAPS offers sharing of 25% of prescribed stipend subject to a maximum of Rs. 1500/- per month per apprentices. Sharing of cost of basic training is compulsory for apprentices who come directly for apprenticeship training without any formal trade training.
He explained that the employers are to engage apprentices within a band of 2.5% to 10% of the total workforce including contractual workers. Employers who are engaging apprentices under the Apprentices Act are exempted towards contribution of EPF and ESI for apprentices engaged by them.
Joint Director RDSD&E, Guwahati, GoI, Shri B. K Singh gave presentation as a resource person during the awareness programme. Additional Chief Secretary, Labour & Employment, Letkhogin Haokip, dignitaries, trainees and participants attended the programme
