Shillong, July 7: The Meghalaya Government has reiterated its commitment to the safety, dignity and welfare of trainees enrolled under its skill development programmes, stating that allegations involving trainees undergoing On-the-Job Training (OJT) in Pune are being examined through due process.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Meghalaya State Skill Development Society (MSSDS) said it had taken note of reports circulating on social media and in sections of the media regarding trainees participating in a Government-sponsored skill development programme.
According to MSSDS, the Government acted immediately after receiving information about the allegations on July 1 by directing the concerned Training and Placement Provider (TPP) to contact all trainees, verify their well-being and facilitate the immediate return of any trainee wishing to discontinue the programme, with the Government bearing the full cost of travel.
The Society said two trainees, including the complainant, chose to return to Meghalaya and arrangements were made without delay. It added that all remaining trainees were also informed that they could return at Government expense but voluntarily opted to continue their OJT and subsequent placement.
MSSDS said the matter was verified through multiple independent channels, including interactions by the local police, representatives of a Meghalaya-based NGO, National Volunteers Meghalaya in Pune, and a separate video conference conducted by the Society. “Based on these enquiries, no material or testimony has emerged thus far to substantiate the allegations against either the employer or the empanelled TPP,” the statement said.
According to MSSDS, trainees who continued with the programme stated that they felt safe, were comfortable with the training environment and wished to complete their OJT. They also expressed concern that unverified allegations could damage the reputation of their batch and discourage employers from recruiting youth from Meghalaya. The trainees further stated that the complainant had previously been counselled on routine workplace protocols, including adherence to training discipline.
MSSDS said the complainant had enrolled in the Senior Beauty & Spa Therapist course after accepting an offer letter that clearly outlined the job role, terms and conditions. The Government-sponsored programme covers training, travel, accommodation and provides a monthly stipend of ₹4,000 during the OJT period. The Society added that all relevant records have been shared with the concerned authorities for independent examination.
Explaining its placement process, MSSDS said empanelled Training and Placement Providers are required to conduct due diligence of employers, while candidates receive counselling and orientation from enrolment through training and pre-departure to ensure they fully understand employment terms, remuneration and workplace expectations before accepting placement.
The Government also stressed that the Beauty & Wellness sector is a recognised professional industry offering skilled and dignified employment with long-term career opportunities. It cautioned that unverified claims could undermine confidence in skill development initiatives, discourage reputed employers from partnering with Meghalaya and reduce employment opportunities for the state’s youth.
MSSDS said the matter remains under examination and assured that if any violation by any stakeholder is established through due process, the Government will take the strictest action available under the law and under the applicable contractual framework.
The Government reaffirmed its commitment to safe migration, ethical recruitment, transparent placement processes and evidence-based decision-making in the best interests of Meghalaya’s youth.
