Anakapalli to Get Skill Development Centre for Youth, Farmers and Fishermen

The Andhra Pradesh government and ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India) have joined hands to establish a Skill and Social Development Centre in Nakkapalli, Anakapalli district, to expand employment opportunities and strengthen livelihoods among fishermen, farmers, youth and women. The initiative aims to equip local communities with industry-relevant skills and ensure they benefit from the economic opportunities created by industrial development in the region.

A Letter of Intent (LoI) was signed between the Andhra Pradesh State Skill Development Corporation (APSSDC) and AM/NS India on Wednesday to take the initiative forward. ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India, a joint venture between ArcelorMittal and Nippon Steel, operates in the steel manufacturing sector and will support the establishment of the centre.

The facility will offer vocational training aligned with industry requirements, alongside programmes designed to improve existing livelihoods. Eligible local youth will have access to recognised certificates after completing their training, with assistance to connect them with suitable employment opportunities.

The initiative is expected to create new pathways for local residents to secure jobs while helping those already engaged in traditional occupations improve their skills and income prospects.

The centre will conduct training programmes in fisheries, agriculture and animal husbandry, targeting communities that depend on these sectors for their livelihoods. The programmes will help beneficiaries upgrade their capabilities and explore opportunities to strengthen their income sources.

Women-led businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs will also receive training and support to pursue self-employment. The initiative will focus on helping women develop independent income sources and build sustainable livelihood activities. Connecting eligible beneficiaries with relevant government schemes will be another priority.

Andhra Pradesh IT and Electronics Minister Nara Lokesh said the government was committed to providing young people with employable skills and ensuring that the benefits of industrial growth reach communities in the surrounding areas.

He said the proposed centre would combine industry-oriented training with livelihood development initiatives, creating opportunities for people in Nakkapalli and nearby villages.

According to an official statement, the programme seeks to strengthen the economic position of fishermen and farmers, improve employment prospects for youth and encourage women to achieve financial independence.

The centre is expected to serve as a link between local workforce development and industrial requirements, helping residents access emerging opportunities and improve household incomes.