Awareness Campaign on PM-NAPS Launched in Manipur

The Directorate of Craftsmen Training under the Skill, Labour, Employment and Entrepreneurship (SLEE) Department, Government of Manipur, launched an Awareness Campaign on the Pradhan Mantri–National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS) for the North East Region at Hotel Classic Grande, Imphal today.

The event was graced by Shri Anurag Bajpai, IFS, Additional Chief Secretary (Textiles, Commerce & Industry and Transport) as Chief Guest; Smt. N. Bandana Devi, IAS, Secretary (SLEE) as Guest of Honour; and Shri Yaiphaba Longjam, MCS, Joint Director, Craftsmen Training, as President.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Anurag highlighted that the scheme under the Skill India Mission is crucial in bridging education, training, and industry. He emphasized that strengthening local industries and promoting MSMEs would enhance youth employment and economic self-reliance in Manipur.

Smt. Bandana Devi described PM-NAPS as a flagship initiative of the Government of India and urged establishments and youth to participate actively. She reminded that establishments with over 30 employees must engage apprentices and that trainees are entitled to monthly stipends between ₹6,000 and ₹12,000.

In his presidential remarks, Shri Yaiphaba Longjam said apprenticeship is one of the most effective forms of skill training, combining theory with hands-on experience.

As part of the programme, the NAPS-2 Campaign Video and Awareness Campaign for the North Eastern Region were launched, followed by a seminar and the flagging off of a promotional vehicle to spread awareness about the scheme.