National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme:
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).
- 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
- 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.
- National Apprenticeship Training Scheme 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 certificateholders; a practical, hands-on On-the-Job-Training (OJT) based skilling opportunities.
- 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.
