Saurabh Bhagat visits ITI Shopian, interacts with trainees

Shopian, Jan 3: Commissioner Secretary, Science and Technology and Skill Development Department (SDD), Saurabh Bhagat, today visited Government ITI Shopian where he interacted with the first batch of Trainees under PM Vishwakarma scheme. He also presided over an awareness camp.

Speaking on the occasion, Commissioner Secretary underscored the pivotal role of PM Vishwakarma scheme in empowering the artisans. The initiative will crucially help in equipping the artisans and youth with skills that align with present industry demands, thus enabling them to become valuable contributors towards the economy. He elaborated on the numerous initiatives being undertaken under PM Vishwakarma scheme to enhance the skill set and employability of local youth and traditional artisans.

Saurabh Bhagat emphasised that skill training not only narrows the unemployment gap but also brings in opportunities for job creation. He appealed to the youth of the district to get themselves registered with PM Vishwakarma Scheme and get a toolkit of Rs. 15000 besides a loan of Rs. 3 lakh for establishing different business units.

Saurabh Bhagat, during interaction with the trainees, emphasized the need for regular upskilling to keep pace with changing trends. He appreciated the district administration for becoming the first district in the UT to start the first batch of Training of 30 beneficiaries. He also expressed happiness on the selection of a significant number of female Candidates.

While addressing the gathering of artisans and trainees, DC Shopian, Faz Lul Haseeb, informed that more than 5000 candidates have registered themselves in district Shopian till now. He added that during the training, a trainee will also get a Rs. 500 stipend monthly for undertaking the training under the scheme. He emphasised the role of line departments in the effective implementation of the scheme.

Director, Skill Development, Sudershan Kumar, highlighted the benefits of the scheme and its impact on society in general and traditional craftsmen in particular.

Commissioner Secretary also inspected stalls showcasing beneficiary-oriented schemes.

Saurabh Bhagat also distributed certificates among the beneficiaries of PMV.

Among others SSP, Shopian, Tanushree; ADDC, Dr. Nasir Ahmed Lone; ADC, Dr. Zakir Hussain Faaz; Joint Director, SDD, Mohammad Feeroz Ahmed Khan; State Management Officer, NSDC, Kehkashan; Superintendent, ITI, Fida Mohammad; officers and officials of ITI and youth in large numbers were present.

Later, a cultural programme was presented by the school children on the occasion.