DC Kishtwar launches Skill Development Program for Project-Affected Families

KISHTWAR, MAY 20: Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Kumar Shavan today inaugurated a comprehensive Skill Development Training Program for families affected by major hydroelectric projects including Rattle HEP, Pakal Dul HEP, Kiru HEP, Kwar and others.

The training is being offered at the Industrial Training Institute (ITI), where the first batch of trainees began a Plumbing Training Course under the district’s skill development training initiative. Over 20 youth from project-affected families have enrolled in the free, year-long training.

Speaking at the launch, the DC emphasized the administration’s commitment to promote sustainable livelihoods, stating that it is a priority of both the Government and the project authorities.

He stated that the initiative is aimed at empowering the youth of affected families with the skills they need to become self-reliant. “More trades will be introduced soon, based on the interests of local youth,” he added.

He also mentioned that, as a part of this program, the administration will also roll out courses in cutting and tailoring, to be set up in the respective villages of the project-affected communities and the initiative offers a comprehensive support system, including free meals, accommodation, stipends, and field exposure visits during the training period, besides toolkits of respective trade to be provided after Successful Completion of the Training.

Principal ITI Kishtwar Anoop Sharma, representatives from Power Projects besides other staff was present during the occasion.