Work with police to curb illicit liquor, Karnataka Minister for Labour and Employment appeals to residents

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu announced a comprehensive plan on Saturday aimed at empowering the state's youth through enhanced skills, entrepreneurship and global competitiveness by 2036. The initiative, titled the Arunachal Human Capital & Economic Transformation Vision 2036, includes the Arun MSME Mission, which seeks to foster local businesses and create employment opportunities. In a video shared on X, Khandu outlined specific goals, including training one lakh youths, cultivating ten thousand entrepreneurs and ten thousand apprentices, and facilitating ten thousand overseas placements. Additionally, the plan involves forming partnerships with 100 industries and converting all 10 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) into modern skill hubs and centers of excellence. Khandu emphasized the evolving expectations of the youth, noting their desire for meaningful employment rather than just jobs. He underscored the importance of nurturing entrepreneurial ambitions among young people and introduced the Arun MSME Mission as a means to support 500 micro, small and medium enterprises annually. This mission includes providing assistance with revival, capacity upgrades, market access and export opportunities. The chief minister expressed confidence that investing in youth skills today would drive Arunachal's growth in the future, positioning the state as a hub for talent, opportunity and international recognition. The vision aims to cultivate a workforce capable of competing both nationally and internationally. By transforming existing ITIs into advanced learning centers, the government hopes to better align vocational training with current and emerging job markets. Industry collaborations are intended to ensure that training programs remain relevant and responsive to labor demands. Khandu's remarks highlight a strategic shift toward innovation and economic self-reliance, emphasizing that ambition knows no bounds and that the state's future depends on its ability to harness youthful energy and creativity. Meanwhile, in Leh, NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Ashok K Lahiri called for leveraging Ladakh's distinctive assets, such as its natural beauty, cultural heritage and renewable energy capabilities, to guide its development. During a meeting with officials, Lahiri focused on creating sustainable livelihoods and enhancing environmental stewardship. Discussions covered infrastructure gaps, especially in energy and connectivity, and explored solutions like improved distribution schemes, power transmission projects and expanded road networks. The meeting also addressed the need for better air travel facilities and enhanced mobile connectivity. Lahiri urged the development of a robust entrepreneurship ecosystem in Ladakh, proposing mentorship programs and connecting aspiring entrepreneurs with external experts. He suggested compiling a database of innovative ideas and fostering collaboration between local and national stakeholders. The meeting also touched upon the potential of Ladakh's indigenous products, such as seabuckthorn apricot and pashmina wool, highlighting the need for modern processing techniques, brand-building and effective marketing strategies. Emphasis was placed on maintaining traditional craftsmanship while integrating contemporary technologies to enhance productivity and quality. In the realm of education, Lahiri advocated for improved school infrastructure, reduced dropout rates and enhanced hostel conditions. He promoted STEM education, foundational literacy and numeracy, and skill development tailored to students in remote and underserved regions. Reliable access to clean drinking water was identified as essential, with the Jal Jeevan Mission achieving nearly complete coverage in Ladakh. Employment and entrepreneurship were further prioritized, with a focus on supporting ventures in livestock management, poultry farming and other local industries through modern facilities, market connections and profitable business models.