The objective of SIMAP is to develop a cadre of industrial managers specifically trained to assist the SSI entrepreneurs in their multiple responsibilities. It also seeks to open up new avenues of productive employment for young graduates who are otherwise not professionally qualified. Thus the programme serves the dual purpose of offering a second line of trained managers at affordable salary level to the small entrepreneurs and professional qualification to those seeking employment opportunities.

The programme is basically meant for unemployed non-technical graduates generally within 35 years of age. However consideration could be given for taking in a few candidates with technical qualifications as also some industry sponsored candidates. Each programme could have up to a maximum of 30 participants to ensure more individual attention.

The duration of the programme would have to be for a minimum of 14 weeks. Depending upon the programme content, it could be for a longer period but not exceeding six months.

The programme would be conducted in three phases. The first phase would consist of class room sessions for about 5-8 weeks. This would be followed by the second phase of 8-12 weeks wherein on-the-job practical training is to be provided in the SSI units. The final phase of 1-2 weeks would be basically as a refresher/debriefing one before the candidates are awarded the course certificates.

2.3.1. First Phase

The first phase class room training inputs would essentially cover information, knowledge and skills pertaining to management of tile SSI units. Topics to be covered during this phase should include :

• Financial and operational management.
• Inventory control.
• Marketing and publicity.
• Effective business communication.
• Leadership skills.
• Banking operations.
• Public relationship.
• Legal aspects.
• Application of Information Technology & Tools

Some more topics of relevance could also be suitably covered. The number of hours per day for the class room sessions could be fixed such that it gives sufficient time to explain and discuss the subjects. From past experience it is seen that at least 30 hours in a week for the class room sessions could be considered as a reasonable time schedule.

2.3.2 Second Phase

This phase would give the participants an opportunity to get on-the-job experience in pre-identified SSI units and prove their competencies to be a successful manger. The concerned entrepreneurs would however need to be briefed in advance about the purpose for which the training placement has been arranged with them and on the need to utilize the services of the trainees accordingly. Participants on being attached with the units will be required to work as per the requirements of the entrepreneurs. Each participant would submit a brief report on the practical training undergone. The concerned entrepreneur could also be asked to offer his/her comments on the trainee's performance and his/her interest in absorbing the trainee on completion of the programme.

2.3.3 Third Phase

In this final phase, the participants are to reassemble at tile programme venue for a refresher/debriefing session. During this time written test, viva voce, etc. could be conducted to decide upon the merits of the individuals for award of the certificate. It would also be an opportune time to arrange for placement interviews so that the participants are able to join the units offering job appointments, immediately after completion of the programme.

The training methodology could include case studies, group discussions, simulation exercises, films, visits to Institutions and factories, field assignments etc. It is expected that the programme co-ordinators would ensure that all the participants get fully involved in all the exercises/assignments and carry out the same in a satisfactory manner.

The participants for the programme will be selected on the basis of a written test and/or an interview.

The advertisement appears in “Employment News”

Participants would be required to pay the fee fixed for the purpose at the time of registration. This should be taken as a non-refundable fee to obviate drop out of participants at later stages. Generally lodging and boarding facilities are made available to the participants at CEC Guest House, IIT Kharagpur on payment basis. The participants will not receive any stipend or allowance during the programme.