Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh urged students who are studying technical courses outside the state to return with valuable skills and experience that can contribute to the state’s development. The call was made during an interaction programme held at the CM’s secretariat in Imphal, which was conducted in a hybrid format. Students from Minority, OBC (Other Backward Class) and SC (Scheduled Caste) communities who have been selected for skill training in Semiconductor Surface Mount Technology (SMT) at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras were addressed by the CM.
The programme, organised under the Manipur Minorities and Economic Development Society (MOBEDS), selected 25 graduates—22 boys and three girls—from 75 applicants. The students, regardless of their undergraduate discipline, will undergo a 15‑day residential training at IIT Madras. The Manipur government will pay for training, accommodation and travel, with support from IIT‑Madras.
SMT training focuses on the assembly and manufacturing processes that use electronic components and materials in the semiconductor and electronics industries. IIT‑Madras has been delivering the programme as a skill‑development initiative that combines practical, industry‑oriented training with its specialised facilities. After training, the institute will assist graduates with job placement in linked industries, offering entry‑level salaries in the range of Rs 20,000 to Rs 25,000 per month.
Chief Minister Singh highlighted that although the semiconductor sector is technically specialised, it presents significant opportunities for youth. He encouraged the students to make the most of the opportunity and acquire skills that can open new avenues for employment. The interaction was also attended virtually by Padma Shri Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, Prof. R. Sarathi and other faculty members and officials.
