Kohima, May 30: Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio officially launched the Nagaland Skill & Entrepreneurship Development Mission (NSEDM) at the Chief Minister’s Residential Complex in Kohima. The mission aims to train and empower 5,000 youth across the state by providing market-relevant skills and promoting sustainable employment and entrepreneurship.

In his address, Rio termed the initiative a major step in bridging the gap between education, training, and employment. He encouraged the youth to look beyond government jobs and explore opportunities in the private sector, stressing the importance of self-reliance and the dignity of labour.

The Chief Minister highlighted that the mission’s digital portal would offer accessible and affordable training opportunities. He also noted that the initiative would be implemented alongside the Chief Minister’s Micro Finance Initiative (CMMFI), which supports self-employment and small enterprises.

Chief Secretary Dr. J. Alam, IAS, stated that NSEDM would operate through a convergence model, integrating multiple departments under one framework. He said ₹35 crore has been earmarked under CMMFI to support around 1,600 entrepreneurs, with a focus on aligning youth skills with emerging private sector demands.

Commissioner and Secretary to the Chief Minister, Kesonyu Yhome, who chaired the launch event, outlined the key goals of NSEDM. These include:

Providing industry-aligned, market-driven training

Ensuring 60% to 80% employment or entrepreneurship outcomes

Promoting hands-on skills over academic qualifications

Supporting self-employment through financial and incubation support

The mission will focus on sectors such as construction, tourism and hospitality, healthcare, IT, and creative industries.

Three training partners—Eagle Crest, Pinnacle Skills, and AISECT—have signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with NSEDM. The official portal https://nsedm.nagaland.gov.in will begin accepting online registrations from June 9, 2025.