On January 8, 2025, the Peenya Industries Association (pia), in collaboration with the Department of Industrial Training and Employment (DITE), GOK, National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), and Gram Vikas Society (GVS), successfully organized an “Awareness Program on National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) for industry leaders in MSME and the recent amendments in apprenticeship act, 1961”.
The event was aimed at fostering a greater understanding of apprenticeship programs and the evolving policies in skill development, particularly in the context of micro and small-scale industries.
The event was presided over by PIA president Sri Shiva Kumar R, with Dr. Ragapriya, IAS, commissioner of DITE, GOK, joining virtually as the chief guest. Her participation emphasized the government’s continued commitment to enhancing the industrial workforce through skill development initiatives. Speakers for the program included Sri. Harshit Rana, senior analyst apprenticeship, NSDC, Sri Shaik Mahmood. Head south India region-NSDC, Sri. Vaijagonda, Joint Director, DITE, GOK, Shri. N R Aravindan, ISDS, regional director, MSDE, DGT, Vinay M S, head-human resources, Auma India pvt ltd and Sri Jagadish Naik-Co founder & CEO, Talentree.
PIA president Sri Shiva Kumar R and Ms. Anikta Pati Rath, Panel Chairperson (ESI, PF, and labor) met with Dr. Ragapriya at her office in Karmika Bhavana. They discussed how the micro and small industries in Peenya can join hands with the ITI colleges and help improve the labor force in terms of their Skill and employment opportunities amongst the micro and small-scale industries. A significant highlight of the event was the exchange of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Peenya Industries Association and DITE, aimed at strengthening the collaboration between industry bodies and government agencies to address the pressing skills gap in the region’s workforce. This partnership marks a crucial step towards building a more skilled, capable labor force, especially in the micro and small-scale industries.
The MOU between the Peenya Industries Association (PIA) and the Department of Industrial Training and Employment (DITE) aims to enhance the region’s workforce by addressing skill gaps and tailoring vocational training programs to meet industry needs. Key objectives include creating effective mechanisms for skill development and deployment, improving youth employability through school and college programs, and fostering collaboration between government, educational institutions, and industry to strengthen practical training. Opportunities like apprenticeships and internships.
Additionally, the MOU focuses on promoting a sustainable workforce management model to address challenges such as labor shortages, skill mismatches, and productivity, ensuring long-term growth and competitiveness for MSMES in the Peenya region. PIA will conduct regular assessments of ITI students to identify skill gaps about the needs of micro and small industries, providing insights to DITE to align training programs with industry demands. Additionally, PIA will offer personal career counseling to help students understand their strengths, explore career options in micro and small sectors, and align their aspirations with industry expectations. In collaboration with DITE, PIA will also help develop industry-specific vocational curricula that emphasize practical skills required by these industries. To further support students, PIA will provide apprenticeship and internship opportunities, allowing them to gain hands-on experience. Lastly, PIA will assist in connecting ITI graduates with employment opportunities in the local micro and small industries, ensuring a smooth transition from training to the workforce.
The exchange of the MOU represents a critical step forward in addressing the skill shortage faced by industries in the Peenya region, which is home to numerous manufacturing and industrial businesses. By fostering collaboration between industry stakeholders and government agencies, the initiative is expected to significantly enhance the skill development landscape in Karnataka.
The event also featured a series of insightful talks from all the speakers who shared their expertise on various aspects of apprenticeship programs, skill development, and the role of MSMEs in driving India’s industrial growth.
Shri N.R. Aravindan highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance the quality and relevance of ITI colleges across the country. He emphasized how the courses offered in these institutions are continuously updated to align with the industry. demands, ensuring that graduates possess the skills needed by modern industries. By focusing on industry-specific training, the government aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical job requirements, thereby making ITI graduates more job-ready and contributing to a stronger, more skilled workforce.
Moreover, Mr. Harshit Rana, Mr. Shaik Mahmood, and Mr. Vaijagonda spoke about the importance of apprenticeship for the new labor force and also the needs of the micro and small-scale industries across the Peenya Industrial Area.
In conclusion, the MOU between PIA and DITE represents a strong commitment to transforming the region’s workforce into one that is capable, skilled, and prepared to meet the evolving demands of the industry. This partnership is expected to serve as a model for other regions, ensuring that India’s industrial sector remains competitive in the global market while providing valuable opportunities for local workers.
