Bashangmongba unveils new mechanical workshop at Shokhuvi

The Modern Mechanical Workshop-cum-Training Centre (MMWTC) was inaugurated on Thursday by Minister for Housing and Mechanical, P. Bashangmongba Chang, at Shokhuvi.
Speaking as the chief guest, the minister said that the newly established facility is dedicated to equipping individuals with specialized skills in the operation and maintenance of heavy vehicles and machinery. The training will follow a National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC)-approved curriculum and incorporate simulated learning modules for comprehensive skill development.
He informed that the training programme will be fully funded by the Government of Nagaland under the Nagaland Skill Mission, while the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN) will help facilitate concessional loans to selected meritorious trainees under the Chief Minister’s Micro Finance Initiative (CMMFI).
Highlighting the importance of the centre, Chang referred to a World Bank report cited by the Union Transport Minister in the Lok Sabha on April 3, 2025, which revealed that India faces a shortage of 22 lakh skilled drivers—an issue directly linked to road accidents and fatalities.
The MMWTC will be managed by an administrator, technical officers, and support staff. It envisions creating a highly skilled workforce through accessible, market-relevant training, while its mission is to deliver industry-aligned programmes fostering employability and entrepreneurship. The centre will be manned by expert departmental officers trained by Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and supported by guest speakers from relevant companies. Upon successful completion of training, the Transport Department will assist trainees in acquiring Heavy Construction Equipment (HCE) driving licences, enabling them to operate machinery such as excavators, backhoe loaders and road rollers.
Chang encouraged unemployed youth to take advantage of this opportunity, stating that the training would enhance their credentials for both employment and entrepreneurship. He extended appreciation to all stakeholders and expressed hope that the facility would serve its intended purpose effectively.
Addressing the initiative, administrator Er. Alemtoshi Imsong highlighted the scope and facilities made available under the scheme.
The centre is equipped to accommodate 45 students in its hostel, with beds and individual lockers provided. Training modules include simulator-based learning for excavators, backhoe loaders and dumper/tipper trucks, alongside on-field practical sessions with static and vibratory road rollers, pick-ups, excavators and backhoe loaders.
In addition to heavy machinery operations, participants will also receive instruction in mechanical fields covering electrical, hydraulic and mechanical systems. Classroom-based theory lessons, aided by projectors, will complement the hands-on training. To ensure safety awareness, the programme also integrates basic first aid training. The initiative is expected to provide skill-based learning opportunities for local youth, enabling them to gain industry-relevant expertise at no cost, he maintained.
The programme was chaired by Superintending Engineer (Mechanical), Er. Imtinuksung Longkumer; invocation by pastor of Revival Church Vidima, Rüpfüvisie Nakhro; introductory note by Chief Engineer (Mechanical), Er. Neingumeu Kire. Later, vote of thanks was delivered by Superintending Engineer (Mechanical), Er. Ekon Murry.