Partnerships with FDDI, NIIFT and SIADS to provide industry-focused training in footwear, fashion and automotive sectors

Chandigarh, 10 November (H.S.): The Punjab Government has signed two significant Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to strengthen skill development and create better employment opportunities for young people across the state. The agreements, signed through the Punjab Skill Development Mission (PSDM), aim to provide industry-oriented training in the automotive, driving, footwear and fashion manufacturing sectors.

Punjab Employment Generation, Skill Development and Training Minister Aman Arora described the partnerships as an important step towards preparing young people for emerging employment opportunities.

He said the government's focus is on developing a skilled workforce capable of meeting the changing requirements of modern industries. The collaborations will help bridge the gap between professional training and industry expectations.

The first agreement was signed between PSDM and the State Institute of Automotive and Driving Skills (SIADS), Mahuana. It will focus on vocational training in automotive technology and driving-related occupations.

The second agreement involves PSDM, the Northern India Institute of Fashion Technology (NIIFT), Punjab's Industries Department and the Footwear Design and Development Institute (FDDI).

This partnership will provide specialised training for footwear stitching technicians, sports footwear assembly technicians, footwear CAD/CAM operators and footwear pattern cutters.

PSDM Director Amrit Singh, who signed the agreements, said the partnerships would introduce training programmes aligned with the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF).

The initiatives will also focus on job placements, apprenticeships and entrepreneurship development to improve employment prospects.

Minister Aman Arora emphasised that collaboration with leading institutions would provide Punjab's youth with practical skills and professional training.

He added that these initiatives would support industrial growth while helping young people build sustainable careers in high-demand sectors.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH