First batch of 5 Himachalis begins work in Saudi Arabia under overseas employment drive

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], October 13 : In a significant boost to Himachal Pradesh's overseas employment drive, the first batch of five young individuals has successfully secured employment in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under the state's Overseas Placement Initiative.

These recruits have been hired by Express Forwarding Services (EFS), a prominent logistics and supply chain company. The announcement comes after a concerted effort by the Himachal Pradesh government to create job opportunities abroad for its youth.
Salim Baig, the Executive Director of Express Forwarding Services (EFS) in Saudi Arabia, has confirmed the new placements said Mansi Shai Thakur, the Director director of the Department of Labour, Employment, and Overseas Placement Himachal Pradesh government.
"They are pleased to have young and skilled talent from Himachal Pradesh joining the EFS team. They have shown great promise, and we believe they will contribute effectively to the operations." she said.
The selected candidates completed their training in Aligarh on August 27, 2024. Their training, which focused on the logistics and supply chain sector, has equipped them with the skills required to serve as technicians, operators, and in various other service roles. The group arrived in Saudi Arabia on Saturday, marking a new chapter in their professional journeys.
This initiative is a result of the groundwork laid during the Chief Minister's visit to Dubai in December 2023. During this visit, the state government explored avenues for creating overseas employment opportunities for Himachal Pradesh's youth, especially in sectors like logistics and hospitality, which have a high demand in the Middle East.
Mansi Shai Thakur, director of the Department of Labour, Employment, and Overseas Placement, expressed her satisfaction with the outcome.
"The Department of Labour, Employment, and Overseas Placement is happy to state that it has taken the initiative from beginning to its logical conclusion under the guidance of the CM and the Industries Minister," she noted.
"Our goal has been to open new horizons for the skilled youth of our state, and this placement is a testament to our commitment. With this successful beginning, we are hopeful about placing more candidates in reputable organizations abroad." Thakur added.
The department is continuing its efforts to place other candidates under the initiative, with many processes already underway. This includes identifying suitable opportunities, providing training, and ensuring that candidates are well-prepared for their roles overseas. The overseas placement initiative is seen as a vital step in reducing unemployment in Himachal Pradesh while providing young professionals the chance to gain valuable international work experience.
The state's proactive approach, coupled with strong partnerships with overseas employers, has laid a robust foundation for expanding such opportunities further. More batches of youth are expected to join the global workforce soon, making Himachal Pradesh a new hub of overseas-ready talent.