The 4th Governing Council Meeting of the Ladakh Skill Development Mission (LSDM) was chaired by Dr. Pawan Kotwal, Advisor to Ladakh and Chairperson of the Governing Council LSDM, on April 23 at Civil Secretariat Leh.

Abied Hussain, Officer on Special Duty to the Commissioner/Secretary of the Technical Department, delivered a comprehensive presentation highlighting the activities undertaken by LSDM during the fiscal year 2023-2024.

The meeting agenda included utilising funds for the fiscal year 2023-24, LSDM's achievements, and the approval and finalisation of the action plan for the fiscal year 2024-25.

Key accomplishments of LSDM during 2023-24 were discussed, including the establishment and functioning of Skill Laboratories in six degree colleges across UT Ladakh, conducting skill training programs for ITI pass outs/ ongoing trainees in premier institutes of the country (outside UT Ladakh), training for specially-abled persons, and Train the Trainer (TOT) programmes for ITI trainers outside Ladakh in different trades.

Additionally, collaborations with Usha International Limited and the Directorate of Social and Tribal Welfare Ladakh resulted in the establishment of Usha Silai Training Centers at 13 Anganwadi centres to promote livelihood opportunities for rural women.

The implementation of centrally sponsored schemes such as PM Vishwakarma and PMKVY 4.0 was also highlighted, with successful training and certification of candidates in various trades and courses and ongoing training under the schemes.

Dr Kotwal emphasised the importance of traditional crafts and stressed training in technical courses such as solar technician, homestay management, spinning, and E-vehicles.