Industries Directorate Announces Free Vocational Training for Island Youth

The Directorate of Industries of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration has announced free vocational training programmes aimed at providing skill development opportunities to local youth across the islands.

The three-month courses will be conducted at the Departmental Training Centre in Sri Vijaya Puram from April 13 to July 12, 2026. The programme is designed to equip participants with practical skills in both traditional and technical trades.

According to the Directorate of Industries, the training courses will cover carpentry, general engineering, cane and bamboo craft, and tailoring and garment making. While carpentry and general engineering courses are intended for male participants, tailoring and garment making will be offered for women. The cane and bamboo course will be open for eligible candidates interested in craft-based skills.

The initiative aims to enhance employability by providing hands-on training in trades that remain relevant to local economic activities. Officials said such programmes are also intended to support artisans and traditional craft workers while encouraging youth to explore self-employment opportunities.

Candidates applying for the programme must have passed Class 10 and possess a valid local certificate of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The eligibility criteria are intended to ensure that the training opportunities benefit residents of the islands seeking skill development.

The Directorate indicated that participants will receive practical training through structured sessions conducted at the training centre. The courses are designed to provide exposure to essential techniques, tools and processes involved in each trade.

Officials said the initiative seeks to empower youth, artisans and members of tribal communities by strengthening their vocational capabilities. By acquiring technical skills, participants may be able to improve their employment prospects or start small enterprises based on the training received.

The programme is part of broader efforts by the administration to promote skill development as a pathway to economic participation. Vocational training in sectors such as carpentry, engineering and garment making is seen as particularly relevant in island settings where demand exists for construction, repair services and small-scale manufacturing.

Similarly, cane and bamboo craft continues to hold cultural and economic importance in the islands. Training in this sector is expected to help preserve traditional craftsmanship while enabling artisans to produce items with improved design and quality.

Interested candidates have been advised to contact the Training Section of the Directorate of Industries at Sri Vijaya Puram during office hours to obtain application forms and further details regarding the selection process.

Officials said the programme is intended to strengthen skill development among island residents and support livelihoods by promoting both traditional crafts and modern technical trades.