Port Blair, July 28: The A&N Administration in collaboration with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India, conducted a National Apprenticeship Awareness Workshop at Lemon Tree Hotel here yesterday.

Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, the Secretary (Labour, Employment & Training), A&N Administration, Shri. B S Jaglan, IAS, emphasized the commitment of the Administration in engaging apprentices in various departments to provide gainful employment opportunities for the youth of the Islands. He highlighted the numerous benefits of the apprenticeship training scheme, emphasizing its significant contribution to society and addressing the local skill requirements. He also highlighted the action plan of A&N Administration for implementing and strengthening the apprenticeship training scheme and urged all departments to align with the initiative.

The Secretary also appreciated the officials of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Govt of India, and the Department of Training, A&N Administration, for organizing the workshop with such efficiency. He encouraged all establishments to register and create apprenticeship opportunities to support this noble cause.

Speaking as the guest of honur on the occasion, the Director General (DDG), South, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Govt. of India, Shri. Anil Kumar elaborated on India's skill development programs and the skill ecosystem. He highlighted the advantages of the apprenticeship training scheme, recognizing its potential to effectively bridge the skill gap.

Earlier, welcoming the gathering, the Principal ITI/Deputy Apprenticeship Advisor, Shri Venketesh Ch., welcomed the gathering.

The other speakers who took sessions during the workshop included Shri. S Samsudeen, Deputy Director, Regional Directorate of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (RDSDE), Chennai, who provided an overview of the Apprenticeship Training Scheme (ATS), Shri. P M Damodharam, Assistant Director, RDSDE, Chennai, who further elaborated on the key provisions within the Apprenticeship Act and rules. Shri Bikram Das, State Engagement Officer, highlighted the optional trades available under the apprenticeship ecosystem. The workshop concluded with a session by Shri. Ajay S Bhagat, Deputy Director, Regional RDSDE, Chennai, explaining the onboarding process of departments/establishments into the apprenticeship portal, creating Basic Training Provider (BTP), recent changes in portal functions/guidelines, creating opportunities, issuing contracts, and other portal functionalities, including eKYC and DBT for candidates and establishments.

The workshop witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 122 attendees representing 71 departments/establishments. The interactive sessions proved highly productive, with officials efficiently addressing doubts and queries related to the Apprenticeship Act.

In a feedback session held at the conclusion of the workshop, the participant departments/establishments expressed their commitment to engaging apprentices within their organizations, providing a positive outlook for the future of apprenticeships in the Islands.