Nashik: The Maharashtra State Skill Development Society (MSSDS) has approved a dedicated skilling project to train 4,300 local youth in a step towards preparations for the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027. The move aims to equip local residents with industry-relevant skills in sectors expected to witness a surge in demand during the mega event, including tourism, hospitality, healthcare, emergency services and infrastructure support.Training will be delivered through short-term courses, upskilling programmes, entrepreneurship development initiatives and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), enabling both fresh and experienced workers to enhance their employability.MSSDS commissioner and chief executive officer Dr Amit Saini said the skill development department was proud to contribute to Simhastha preparations by building a pool of trained manpower capable of delivering quality services during the event. Kumbh Mela Authority commissioner Shekhar Singh said, “The project will help local youth acquire market-ready skills while improving service standards for the millions of pilgrims expected to visit Nashik during Simhastha 2027.”The programme will cover a wide range of job roles like tourist guides, guest service associates, homestay managers, chefs, food and beverage service associates, health assistants, electricians, and first-aid and emergency response personnel. Workers with existing skills will also have the opportunity to obtain formal certification through the RPL mechanism.The approval was announced at a World Youth Skills Day programme in Mumbai, where minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha handed over the letter of intent for the project, which will be implemented through the Sahyadri Farms-Tata STRIVE Skill Development Centre. Officials said the initiative was designed to ensure that local youth directly benefit from the economic opportunities created by the Kumbh Mela.
