Centre Launches Special Apprenticeship Scheme for Northeast Youth

In a major boost to skill development in India’s northeastern region, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) launched a pilot apprenticeship scheme aimed at promoting hands-on industrial training among youth from the region. The initiative offers an additional ₹1,500 monthly stipend over existing allowances, targeting 26,000 youth to improve access to employment-oriented training opportunities.

Why in News?

On May 20, 2025, the Government of India, in collaboration with the Government of Mizoram, launched a pilot scheme in Aizawl to support youth from the northeast under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS). The scheme is designed to tackle mobility barriers, enhance female participation, and align regional talent with national industrial needs.

Objectives and Purpose

• Encourage youth from the northeast to take up industry-based apprenticeship training.
• Provide financial aid to overcome logistical and mobility-related hurdles.
• Bridge the gap between education and employment with real-world industry exposure.
• Promote inclusive participation, especially among women.

Key Features

• Beneficiaries: 26,000 youth from northeastern states.
• Extra Support: ₹1,500 per month in addition to the current ₹1,500 under NAPS.
• Duration: 12 months.
• Total Outlay: ₹43.94 crore.
• ₹4 crore allocated for outreach, capacity building, and implementation.

Implementing Agencies

• Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE), Guwahati
• National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC)

Supported by,

• State Skill Missions
• Regional Directorates
• Local Training Institutions

Key Statements

Jayant Chaudhary, MoS (Independent Charge), MSDE

• “This is not just a training pathway; it’s a bridge to employment. It opens doors to industry exposure and talent engagement.”

Lalduhoma, Chief Minister of Mizoram

• “This initiative empowers northeastern youth to participate in India’s economic growth with confidence.”

Regional Significance

• Addresses historical challenges of mobility, access, and employment opportunities in the northeast.
• Encourages industry partnerships and builds transparent skill-to-employment pipelines.
• Recognizes growing female participation in apprenticeship roles in the region.