Addl CS calls for more industries
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR

Imphal, November 06 2025: Noting that most of the industries seen in Manipur are micro processing industries, Additional Chief Secretary Anurag Bajpai has called upon all the people to strive towards establishment of more local industries.

He was speaking at an awareness programme on Pradhan Mantri-National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS) for the North East Region at Hotel Classic Grande here today.

In his address as the chief guest, Anurag Bajpai emphasized that the promotion scheme under the Skill India Mission is a crucial step toward bridging education, training, and industry on a common platform.

He highlighted that in Manipur, nearly 95-96% of industries are micro or small-scale, and the Government's focus is on upgrading these units into small and medium enterprises by promoting local industries, utilizing local resources, and enhancing their visibility in wider markets.

The Additional Chief Secretary stressed that true and sustainable progress is about strengthening local capabilities rather than depending on outside industries.

He underscored that the growth of MSMEs will not only boost the local economy but also create strong linkages for youth employment and entrepreneurship.

Anurag Bajpai urged educational and skill development institutions to embed apprenticeship programmes within their systems and called upon Government departments and PSUs to actively implement apprenticeship and entrepreneurship initiatives.

Concluding his speech, he expressed confidence that through collective and mission-driven efforts, the promotion scheme will empower youth, strengthen local industries, and pave the way for a self-reliant and prosperous Manipur.

In her address as the guest of honour, N Bandana Devi, Secretary, Skill, Labour, Employment and Entrepreneurship (SLEE), Government of Manipur underscored the PM-NAPS, describing it as one of the most important flagship programmes of the Government of India.

N Bandana highlighted that under the Apprenticeship Act, establishments with more than 30 employees must engage apprentices while those with 4 to 29 employees may do so voluntarily.

Stressing that the initiative should mark the beginning of a larger movement in Manipur, she urged all stakeholders to ensure that every eligible candidate and establishment understands the value of apprenticeship.

Expressing concern over violations of the Apprenticeship Act, she cautioned against employing trainees without stipends, reminding that apprentices are entitled to Rs 6,000- Rs 12,000 per month based on qualifications.

She also pointed out the gap between theoretical education and industry needs, noting that PM-NAPS plays a vital role in bridging this divide.

The SLEE Secretary called upon ITI Principals, instructors, and officials to actively promote awareness of the scheme.

In his presidential address, Yaiphaba Longjam, Joint Director, Craftsmen Training, emphasized that apprenticeship is one of the most powerful and effective forms of skill training, as it combines practical learning with hands-on experience.

He highlighted that the Apprenticeship Programme in India was introduced under the Apprentices Act, 1961, and was further strengthened through the Apprenticeship Rules, 1992.He noted that under this framework, specific roles and responsibilities have been clearly defined to ensure proper regulation and effective implementation.

He mentioned that the Department of Skill, Labour, Employment and Entrepreneurship (SLEE) serves as the Nodal Department in Manipur, under the supervision of the State Apprenticeship Advisor, State Skill Structure (SSS).

As a part of the event, the NAPS-2 campaign video and the awareness campaign on PM-NAPS for the North Eastern Region were officially launched by the chief guest.

Additionally, a seminar with students and establishments was organized as part of the programme.

To mark the occasion, the Additional Chief Secretary, Anurag Bajpai also flagged off a vehicle carrying messages to promote awareness about the PM-NAPS across the North East Region.

Several Government officials and students participated in the awareness campaign.

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