In a major boost to the skilling ecosystem of the North East, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Jayant Chaudhary, along with Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma, launched the North East Apprenticeship Pilot Scheme. Backed by Rs 43.94 crore, the scheme aims to provide over 26,000 youth with an additional Rs 1,500 monthly stipend for one year, on top of existing benefits under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS).
The pilot, driven by MSDE and rooted in the Centre’s Viksit Bharat, Viksit North East vision, will be executed by the Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE), Guwahati, and NSDC. A key highlight is the focus on women participation, with data already showing higher female engagement in the region.
In Aizawl, local businesses and training institutions are viewing the scheme as a timely intervention to bridge skill gaps in retail, services, and emerging trades. With structured on-the-job training and national certifications, the initiative is expected to inject a stream of job-ready talent into the market, strengthening industry linkages. The event also saw a strategic NSDC-Welspun MoU for textile apprenticeships and a presentation on a ₹60,000 crore ITI upgradation plan, positioning the North East as a frontrunner in India’s skilled workforce agenda.
