VARANASI, June 21 -- More than 550 participants, including around 300 beneficiaries, 40 employers, industry association representatives, public representatives, ESIC officials, Deputy Labour Commissioners, and EPFO officers and staff, attended a special programme organised by the Union ministry of labour and employment at the Rudraksh International Cooperation and Convention Centre in Varanasi on Friday. The event was held as part of the nationwide rollout of benefits under the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana (PM-VBRY). It was linked to the main programme at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi disbursed incentives worth Rs.2,400 crore to more than 15 lakh beneficiaries across the country. The national event was attended by Union minister for labour & employment and youth affairs & sports, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, minister of state for labour & employment Shobha Karandlaje, senior government officials, employer representatives, employee beneficiaries and other dignitaries. The proceedings at Vigyan Bhawan were broadcast live at the Varanasi venue, enabling participants to witness the national launch and benefit distribution programme. Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi said that the PM Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana aims to empower first-time employees and strengthen the link between youth and industry. He emphasised that the aspirations, skills and potential of the country's youth would play a key role in achieving the vision of a developed India. The Varanasi programme was graced by Ravindra Jaiswal, minister of state (independent charge) for stamp, court fees and registration, government of UP. During the event, employers distributed 20 appointment letters to newly employed members, marking a significant step towards employment generation and workforce participation. According to an official communique, the Varanasi programme formed part of a nationwide outreach initiative, with similar events organised simultaneously at 200 locations across the country....