GANGTOK, Sikkim – The Sikkim government has established a new board to help young residents find jobs abroad. This board will train and place youth in foreign countries. Officials announced the formation of the Foreign Employment and Recruitment Facilitation Board on Saturday.
New Board Targets Overseas Employment for Sikkim Youth
The board operates under the Skill Development Department. Its purpose is to create a system for training and placing skilled, semi-skilled, and unskilled youth from Sikkim overseas. MLA Madan Cintury, an advisor to the Skill Development Department, will lead the five-member board. The Skill Development Secretary is also a member. One member will be a domain expert appointed by the state government.
Policy and Partnerships for Safe Migration
The board will create policies for safe, legal, and ethical overseas employment. This was stated in a notification issued by Chief Secretary R Telang on February 5 . The board will work with recruitment agencies. These agencies must be registered with the Protector General of Emigrants, under the Ministry of External Affairs.
The board will manage candidate recruitment. This includes counseling, skill development, and foreign language training. These services will be provided through approved training partners. The board will also oversee job placement. Support for migration and assistance after placement are included. Employer engagement and recruitment drives are also part of its duties. Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with foreign agencies will be facilitated.
Candidate Support and Grievance Redressal
Prospective emigrants will receive pre-departure orientation. They will be educated on safe migration practices. Counseling will cover their rights and obligations. Information about working and living conditions abroad will be provided. This will be done with training partners and recruitment agencies. The Niyukti Kendra will supervise these efforts.
A system for handling emigrant grievances will be set up. The board can address complaints and offer repatriation assistance. It can also take action against non-compliant recruitment agencies or employers. This ensures a secure process for Sikkimese youth seeking overseas work.