Centre–State Coordination Key to Boost Overseas Jobs for Youth: Minister Vivek

Hyderabad, Feb 25: Labour, Employment and Mines Minister Dr. G. Vivek Venkatswamy on Wednesday underscored the need for close coordination between the Central and State governments in skill training, course selection, passport services and immigration procedures to create enhanced overseas employment opportunities for youth.

Interacting with senior officials of the Ministry of External Affairs at the Secretariat, the Minister said structured foreign language training, alongside domain-specific skills, is crucial for improving global employability. He stressed the importance of building a strong ecosystem of mentors and career guides to prepare candidates for international placements. Expanding language training facilities in sync with professional courses would significantly increase overseas job placements, he added.

The delegation comprised Secretary (CPV & OIA) Sripriya Ranganathan, Joint Secretary (OE) & Protector General of Emigrants Surinder Bhagat, and Regional Passport Officer, Hyderabad, Ajith John Joshua.

During the meeting, officials reviewed programmes being implemented by the Centre and the State to facilitate overseas placements. Sripriya Ranganathan noted that coordinated efforts are underway to provide structured training to students aspiring for foreign employment. She appreciated the initiatives taken by the Telangana government to promote overseas placements and emphasized that cultural orientation for youth travelling abroad remains a priority for the Government of India.

Highlighting the significance of institutional partnerships, she said linking corporate training institutions with overseas employers would deliver better outcomes and build confidence among international partners. She also stressed the need to curb illegal immigration at the grassroots level and sought the State government’s cooperation in strengthening awareness and monitoring mechanisms. Certifications issued by State government institutions, she said, can be ratified by central agencies through coordinated processes.

LETF Special Secretary Dana Kishore briefed the delegation on initiatives undertaken by the Telangana Overseas Manpower Company (TOMCOM). He informed that Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) are being upgraded into Advanced Technology Centres (ATCs) to produce industry-ready professionals. Several certifications issued in the State are already recognized by central bodies such as the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET), he added.

Issues relating to passport issuance and the need to enhance awareness on safe and legal immigration procedures at the time of passport application were also discussed in detail during the meeting.