National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme

National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme Latest News

Recently, the 38th Meeting of the Central Apprenticeship Council (CAC), chaired by the Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), recommended a 36% increase in stipend provided under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS).

About National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme

• The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) was launched on19th August 2016 by the Government of India.
• The scheme entails financial support to establishments undertaking apprenticeship programs.
• It is an initiative by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship aimed at promoting apprenticeship training across India.
• NAPS registration is essential for candidates and establishments to benefit from this program.
• Objectives
  • To develop skilled manpower for the industry by promotion of on-the-job experiential training.
  • To encourage establishments to enrol apprentices by sharing partial stipend support to the apprentices.
  • To provide up-skilling opportunities for candidates who have undergone short-term skill training.
  • To encourage enrolment of apprentices in small establishments (MSMEs), and those located in underserved areas like in aspirational districts and in the North-East region.
• This scheme provides financial incentives to establishments engaging apprentices under the Apprentices Act, 1961. By offering partial stipend support and advocacy, the scheme encourages industries to train a skilled workforce andbridge the gap between education and employment. 
• The scheme not only promotes skill development but also focuses on building a trained workforce that aligns with industry needs. Candidates who complete their training receive a NAPS certificate, which enhances their employability.

About National Apprenticeship Training Scheme

• It is one of the flagship programmes of Government of India for Skilling Indian Youth in Trade disciplines.
• It is under the provisions of the Apprentices Act, 1961 amended in 1973.
• It offers Graduate, Diploma students and Vocational certificate holders; practical, hands-on On-the-Job-Training (OJT) based skilling opportunities.
• Duration: Ranging from 6 months to 1 year.
• During the period of apprenticeship, the apprentices are paid a stipend amount, 50% of which is reimbursable to the employer from the Government of India.
• At the end of the training period the apprentices are issued a Certificate of Proficiency by the Government of India which can be registered at all employment exchanges across India as valid employment experience.
• There is no guarantee of employment after completion of training as an apprentice.

National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme FAQs

Q1: Who is eligible for the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme?

Ans: Individual who has completed 14 years of age (18 years in case of Hazardous industries defined under the Apprenticeship Rules).

Q2: What is the national apprenticeship training scheme?

Ans: The basic objective of the scheme is to bridge any gap, in so far practical/ hands on experience of fresh graduate engineers, diploma holders and general streams students.

Source: PIB