Pakyong, June 10 : A combined meeting on the formulation of the District Skill Development Plan (DSDP) and implementation of the Sikkim INSPIRES Programme under the chairmanship of the District Collector, Pakyong, Pari Bishnoi, was held today at the Conference Hall, District Administrative Centre (DAC), Pakyong.
The meeting focused on the formulation of the District Skill Development Plan (DSDP). Concurrently, the committee deliberated on the implementation of the Sikkim INSPIRES (Integrated Service Provision and Innovation for Reviving Economies) Programme aimed at enhancing non-farm economic opportunities for women and youth in the district.
During the meeting, DC Pakyong called upon the line departments to actively participate in the planning process and submit proposals based on local requirements and emerging opportunities. She observed that skill development has become increasingly important in the changing employment landscape and highlighted the need to equip youth with relevant competencies that meet current industry demands.
Expressing appreciation for the presentation made by the Skill Development Department, she noted that it provided a clear understanding of the various schemes and avenues available for implementation at the district level.
The District Collector stated that the district administration would coordinate with training partners to support mobilisation efforts and facilitate the implementation of skill development initiatives. She also underscored the importance of creating awareness among students and youth through regular engagement programmes in schools and colleges, ensuring that they remain informed about available skilling and employment opportunities.
Reaffirming the district administration’s commitment towards skill development, she assured full support and collaboration for the successful implementation of the initiatives.
Additional District Collector, Pakyong, Pulkit, highlighted a proposed district specific initiative aimed at developing value added souvenir products by integrating locally available resources such as orchids and bamboo. He stated that the initiative seeks to create sustainable livelihood opportunities, promote local craftsmanship and cater to the tourism and hospitality sectors. He further noted that capacity-building and skill development support would be essential for scaling up the project and ensuring its long-term viability.
Joint Chief Operating Officer-cum-Senior Consultant, Skill Development Department, Dr. IBS Yadav, presented an overview of the genesis and objectives of the District Skill Committee. He highlighted the vision of the Skill Development Department to integrate and harmonise skill training initiatives, improve the quality and standardisation of training programmes, ensure inclusive access to skill development opportunities and leverage technology for efficient governance and transparency. He also briefed the gathering on various initiatives of the department.
Subsequently, Joint Secretary-cum-CEO, Niyukti Kendra, Skill Development Department, Sushma Pradhan, delivered a presentation on employment facilitation and career development initiatives undertaken through Niyukti Kendra. She highlighted various schemes and services, including the Prime Minister Internship Scheme (PMIS), National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS), National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS), foreign employment and recruitment facilitation, job fairs, placement drives, employment registration, job matching and career counselling services.
Principal, Government Industrial Training Institute (ITI), Pakyong, Chandan Bajgai, briefed the gathering on the objectives and functioning of the institute. He highlighted the various short-term and long-term training courses offered under ITI and outlined the facilities available for skill development and vocational training.
Under Secretary, Skill Development Department, Nikhil Sherpa, presented the objectives, scope and implementation framework of the Sikkim INSPIRES Programme. He also outlined the ongoing initiatives of the department and highlighted the support and convergence required from line departments for the effective implementation of the programme at the district level. Additionally, he provided insights into district migration trends and briefed on facilitating referrals of potential beneficiaries seeking employment opportunities in European countries under the Chief Minister’s ELEVATE Scheme.
The meeting concluded with deliberations on strengthening inter-departmental coordination and ensuring effective implementation of skill development initiatives across Pakyong district.
The meeting had the presence of ADC Pakyong, Pulkit; CEO Pakyong, Education Department, Narayan Mishra; CMO Pakyong, Health and Family Department, Dr Madanmani Dhakal; Additional Registrar, Cooperation Department, Kesang Yanki along with Deputy Director, LR&DMD; Welfare Officer, Social Welfare Department; HDO, Horticulture & Agriculture Department and DCPO, Pakyong.
