An Awareness Workshop on the Special Pilot Initiative under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) was organized by the Skill Development Department (SDD), Government of Sikkim, at Auditorium, Sikkim Government College, Namchi, on 28th October 2025. The event was part of the national initiative “Kaushal Bharat, Viksit Bharat”, aimed at advancing apprenticeship in the Northeastern Region.
The workshop sought to raise awareness among students, educational institutions, and industries about the benefits of apprenticeship training, especially under the Special Pilot Initiative for the Northeastern Region (NER).
Participation
The workshop witnessed active participation from a diverse group of stakeholders:
24 industrial representatives from across Sikkim attended the event, representing various sectors.
Over 100 registered students from Sikkim Government College Namchi and Government Industrial Training Institute Namchi participated enthusiastically.
Hon’ble Area MLA, Namchi-Singithang Constituency, Shri Satish Chandra Rai, Hon’ble Chairman OBC board, Mr. Hukum Chandra Rai, District Collector Namchi, Ms. Anupa Tamling, Principal Sikkim Government College Namchi, Dr. Deepak Tewari, Principal Government Industrial Training Institute Namchi, Mr. Mingma Norbu Bhutia, Cooperative Heads, officials from the Skill Development Department, representatives from Niyukti Kendra, and resource persons from Yuva Sakti Foundation (YSF) were present and contributed to the proceedings.
Program Overview
The event began with registration of participants at 10:30 AM, followed by the inaugural session that included the arrival of dignitaries and the lighting of the ceremonial lamp.
Shri D. D. Sharma, Deputy Director (I), Skill Development Department, delivered the welcome address. He highlighted the significance of the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and its impact on enhancing skill development in Sikkim.
Mrs. Sushma Pradhan, Joint Secretary-cum-CEO, Niyukti Kendra, presented an informative session on the benefits of NAPS. She explained various aspects such as stipend details, eligibility criteria, registration process, and how apprenticeship training bridges the gap between academic learning and industry requirements.
Mr. Jigmee Sherpa, Training Manager, YSF, demonstrated how industries and candidates can register on the apprenticeship portal (www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in). He guided participants through the process of applying, signing apprenticeship contracts, and receiving letters of offer.
Ms. Bhawana Rai, HR, V-Guard Industries Ltd. and apprentices Mr. Prabal Chettri from Alkem Labratories Ltd. and Mr. Rajesh Kumar from Alembic Pharmaceuticals Ltd. shared their experiences about how apprenticeship training has enhanced productivity, employability, and mutual growth.
The Chief Guest, Hon’ble Area MLA, Namchi-Singithang Constituency, delivered an inspiring speech emphasizing the importance of education and skill development for the youth. He encouraged students to make use of apprenticeship opportunities as a pathway to professional success. Additionally, he urged young participants to stay away from social evils such as drugs, alcohol, and gambling, stressing the importance of discipline and hard work in building a successful future.
Completion certificates and offer letters were distributed to select apprentices. Followed by distribution of participation certificates to industry representatives.
Mr. Nawraj Lamsal, Assistant Director-II, SDD, concluded the formal session with a vote of thanks, appreciating all participants, officials, and industry representatives for their cooperation.
Conclusion
The workshop successfully created awareness about apprenticeship training among students and industries in Sikkim. The sessions highlighted how NAPS provides financial incentives, hands-on training, and employability enhancement for youth, while giving industries access to skilled manpower.
The event concluded on an optimistic note, reinforcing the vision of a “Kaushal Bharat, Viksit Bharat”, and encouraging the youth of Sikkim to take active steps toward skill-based learning and meaningful employment.