Apprenticeship Schemes
The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) is a flagship initiative of the Government of India aimed at promoting apprenticeship training in the country. Launched on August 19, 2016, by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), NAPS is part of the government’s larger vision to create a skilled workforce and address the issue of unemployment.
The primary objective of NAPS is to increase the engagement of apprentices in both public and private sectors by providing a framework for employers to hire apprentices and offering financial incentives to encourage their participation. The scheme is implemented by the MSDE through the Directorate General of Training (DGT) and the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC).
Key features of the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme include:
Reimbursement of training costs: The government provides financial assistance to employers to cover a significant portion of the apprenticeship training costs, including basic training, theoretical instruction, and on-the-job training.
Stipend to apprentices: Apprentices are entitled to receive a stipend during the training period. The stipend amount is determined by the respective state governments and varies based on the trade and qualification level of the apprentice
Skill development: The scheme focuses on enhancing the skills of apprentices through a combination of theoretical training and practical on-the-job experience. This helps them acquire industry-relevant skills and improve their employability.
Incentives for employers: Employers who engage apprentices under the NAPS are eligible to receive financial incentives as reimbursement of a part of the stipend paid to the apprentices. These incentives aim to encourage more companies to participate in apprenticeship training.
National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC): Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship period, apprentices are awarded the National Apprenticeship Certificate, which is a recognized qualification indicating their skill competency and work experience.
The National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) is an initiative of the Government of India aimed at promoting apprenticeship training in the country. It is implemented by the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) through the Board of Apprenticeship Training (BOAT) and the Board of Practical Training (BOPT). NATS primarily focuses on providing apprenticeship opportunities in the public sector.
The key objectives of the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme are as follows:
Skill development: NATS aims to enhance the skills of students and graduates by offering them apprenticeship training in various industries. It provides them with practical exposure and on-the-job training to supplement their theoretical education.
Industry relevance: The scheme seeks to align the training provided to apprentices with industry requirements, ensuring that they acquire skills that are in demand in the job market. This helps bridge the gap between academia and industry needs.
Employment opportunities: NATS aims to improve the employability of students and graduates by equipping them with industry-specific skills and work experience. By participating in apprenticeships, individuals enhance their chances of securing suitable employment opportunities.
Industry collaboration: The scheme encourages collaboration between educational institutions and industries by facilitating the placement of apprentices in companies. This fosters partnerships that benefit both parties, as companies gain access to a skilled workforce while educational institutions can align their curricula with industry needs.
Stipend for apprentices: Apprentices engaged under the NATS are entitled to receive a stipend during their training period. The stipend amount is determined by the respective organizations offering apprenticeships and is generally based on the apprentice’s qualification level.
Apprenticeship registration and monitoring: NATS provides a platform for apprentices and employers to register and participate in the apprenticeship program. It also enables monitoring and evaluation of the training process to ensure quality and compliance with standards.