The meeting was attended by ADDC Vikas Ahlawat, General Manager DIC, Assistant Labour Commissioner, Chief Education Officer, District Mineral Officer, District Employment Officer, Principals of ITI Anantnag and Seer Hamdan, Lead District Manager, District Officer JKEDI, and officials from the Health, Agriculture, J&K Skill Development Mission, SC/ST Corporation, and Tourism Departments, besides representatives from various other concerned agencies.

During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on the progress achieved under the scheme, the registration of establishments and apprentices, and measures to further strengthen apprenticeship opportunities for local youth. Modalities and possibilities for better implementing the scheme in adherence to its guidelines were also deliberated on the occasion.

Addressing the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner stressed the need for effective implementation of NAPS-PRAGATI and better coordination among all stakeholders. He called for wider participation from establishments and eligible youth to ensure that maximum beneficiaries avail the benefits of the apprenticeship program and gain practical skills and work experience.

With improved skill set across sectors, the employability and market demand of the eligible youth can be greatly enhanced, he observed. Dr. Bilal directed the concerned departments to closely monitor the progress and take the necessary measures to achieve the targets under the scheme within the stipulated timelines.

He stated that the scheme is highly beneficial and that, with coordinated and systematic efforts by all institutions and agencies, the youth can fully avail its benefits. Earlier, the Principal of ITI Anantnag briefed the meeting on the guidelines, aims, objectives, and other key aspects of the scheme through an elaborate Power Point Presentation. He also informed about the eligibility criteria and the process involved in registering the youth under the national level initiative.