Ashok Parmar assumes charge as Pr Secy SDD

Jammu, Jul 21: After assuming charge of Principal Secretary Skill Development Department (SDD), Ashok Kumar Parmar Friday chaired a meeting to assess the functioning of Skill Development Department at Civil Secretariat, here.
During the meeting, the Principal Secretary also took stock of progress made during the current year under Capex budget for Skill Development projects. The meeting also included a comprehensive review of the Central Sponsored schemes that are currently being implemented in the Skill Development Department.
The meeting was attended by Mission Director Skill Development Mission Leena Padha; Director Skill Development Department Sudershan Kumar; Additional Secretary, Skill Development Department Narayan Dutt; Heads of different institutes and other officers of Skill Development Department.
Addressing the officers during the meeting, the Principal Secretary emphasized on importance of timely execution and effective utilization of funds to boost skill development opportunities in the region. He instructed controlling officers to expedite the process of according Administrative Approvals, technical sanctions, and tendering of pending civil works to accelerate the implementation of various Skill Development projects and ensure that they benefit the intended beneficiaries promptly.
Principal Secretary highlighted the critical importance of fostering robust inter-departmental coordination, particularly with the Industries & Commerce Department, Labour & Employment Department, Entrepreneurship Development Institute and private industry players, to achieve superior outcomes in the field of skill development. He added that this collaborative approach aims to bolster Jammu & Kashmir Union Territory workforce, empower the youth, and drive economic growth.
During the meeting, the Principal Secretary also discussed the need of launching of a dedicated web portal, aimed at bridging the gap between job providers, industries and skilled workers. He added that by creating this online platform, industries and traders can efficiently communicate their workforce requirements, while job seekers can access various opportunities catered to their skills and expertise. He further said that this web portal will serve as a one-stop solution, streamlining the hiring process and catalysing job placements.
Recognizing the dynamic landscape of the job market, Ashok Kumar underscored the significance of introducing modern technologies in technical institutes, with a specific focus on institutions like the Central for Invention, innovation, incubation and training. He remarked that the possibility of integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cyber security into the curriculum will empower students with cutting-edge knowledge and skills, equipping them to meet the demands of emerging industries and secure Jammu & Kashmir Union Territory digital future.
Ashok Kumar further emphasized the need to optimize the utilization of resources and monitor the progress of these schemes meticulously. He urged all officers to work with utmost integrity, efficiency, and zeal to create a positive impact and foster skill development in the region.
The Principal Secretary further expressed his confidence in the collective efforts of the team and reiterated commitment of the Department to advance the Skill Development initiatives in line with the Government’s vision for a skilled and empowered workforce.