Manipur government launches PM-NAPS awareness campaign in Imphal

Imphal: The Manipur government on Thursday launched an awareness campaign on the Pradhan Mantri-National Apprenticeship Entrepreneurship Promotion Scheme (PM-NAPS) for the North East Region at Imphal.

Anurag Bajpai, Additional Chief Secretary (Textiles, Commerce and Industry and Transport), Government of Manipur, who graced the event as the chief guest, emphasised that the Promotion Scheme under the Skill India Mission is a crucial step toward bridging education, training, and industry on a common platform.

In Manipur, nearly 95–96% of industries are micro or small-scale, and the government’s focus is on upgrading these units into small and medium enterprises by promoting local industries, utilising local resources, and enhancing their visibility in wider markets.

Describing it as one of the most important flagship programmes of the Government of India, Bajpai stated that the success of the scheme requires a two-pronged approach, creating awareness among eligible youth and encouraging establishments across Manipur to participate.

Under the Apprenticeship Act, establishments with more than 30 employees must engage apprentices, while those with 4 to 29 employees may do so voluntarily, he said, urging all stakeholders to ensure that every eligible candidate and establishment understands the value of apprenticeship.

The apprentices are entitled to Rs 6,000–Rs 12,000 per month based on qualifications.

The Directorate of Craftsmen Training, under the Skill, Labour, Employment and Entrepreneurship (SLEE) Department, Government of Manipur, organised the event. 

N. Bandana Devi, IAS Secretary, Skill, Labour, Employment and Entrepreneurship (SLEE), Government of Manipur and Yaiphaba Longjam, MCS, Joint Director, Craftsmen Training, Manipur, attended the event as the Guest of Honour and President, respectively.

Several Government officials and students also actively participated in the awareness campaign.