In a major boost for youth empowerment in the North East, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, joined Mizoram Chief Minister Shri Lalduhoma to launch the North East Apprenticeship Pilot Scheme in Aizawl. The ₹43.94 crore initiative aims to provide over 26,000 youth from the region with a ₹1,500 monthly stipend, in addition to the standard benefits under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS).
Chaudhary emphasized the transformative potential of real-world industry exposure, especially for women, calling the scheme “an open bridge to employment.” Lalduhoma echoed the sentiment, highlighting Mizoram’s literacy and readiness to lead in skills and innovation. The pilot will be implemented by IIE Guwahati and NSDC with support from state missions.
Local entrepreneurs and business associations welcomed the move, noting it could significantly improve the employability of youth in sectors like retail, agri-business, and handloom. The market, which often grapples with a shortage of trained manpower, sees this scheme as a timely intervention to address the talent gap and stimulate economic activity. A Welspun-NSDC MoU and a national ITI upgrade plan also featured at the launch.
