Mayabunder, June 26: The North & Middle Andaman District Police has made a first-of-its-kind effort by introducing "HUNAR" a creative and innovative project, to involve Andaman youth in skill development courses in an effort to reduce victimization and their engagement in criminal activities. The program was flagged off under the able guidance and leadership of Ms. Geetanjali Khandelwal, IPS, Superintendent of Police, North & Middle Andaman District and under the banner of Community Policing Initiative.

This is another feather in the cap of N & M Andaman District Police which has rolled out many such initiatives to motivate the youth power of the Union Territory and shape their career and become responsible citizens of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

The islands have limited employment opportunities for unskilled youth and the idea behind this initiative is to help them realize their potential, acquire critical skills, gain employability and drive them away from anti- social influence.

Speaking on this initiative, Ms. Geetanjali Khandelwal, IPS, Superintendent of Police, North & Middle Andaman District, said, "The youth of today is the future of Andaman and we believe they have integral role to play in the transformation and progress of the island. The latest in a series of community initiatives – Hunar is focused at addressing this core issue. It works on the dual approach of addressing social challenges that plague our society like crime, unemployment and drug abuse and also empowering the youth grab opportunities in the future. This community initiative will drive the youth away from negative influence and engage them to develop productive skill sets to participate in the island’s progress and development.”

The N&M Andaman District Police have been undertaking various social initiatives regularly for the people of the district. In the first phase, under the Skill Development Program, the youth and other residents will receive training and guidance in four short duration courses, namely Bamboo work, Cane art, Papad making and Candle making by skilled and trained teachers. This learning will not only help them gain the required job skills but also get meaningful jobs or become self-employed to start a micro and small industry of their own.