In today’s time, learning new skills is very important. Many people are looking for jobs, but companies want skilled people. To solve this problem, the Government of India started a scheme called the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS). This scheme helps young people to get real work experience and learn skills while working. It also helps companies by giving them financial support to train apprentices.
Let’s understand what this scheme is all about, how it works, who can join, and how it helps both job seekers and employers.
What is the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS)?
The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme, or NAPS, was launched by the Central Government of India on 19th August 2016. It was started by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE). The aim of this scheme is to promote apprenticeship training in India and increase the number of apprentices in different trades and industries.
In simple words, NAPS helps people learn by doing real jobs in factories, companies, or any workplace. At the same time, it supports companies by sharing some of the money they spend on training the apprentices.
What is Apprenticeship Training?
Apprenticeship training means learning a skill or trade while working in an actual job. It includes two parts:
- Basic Training: This is for people who have never gone through any formal or skill training. It gives them the basic knowledge needed before starting the real job. This is usually 20-25% of the total training time.
- On-the-Job Training (OJT): This is where the apprentice learns by working at the company, factory, or industry. The training is practical and happens in real-world situations.
So basically, under NAPS, a person learns some theory (basic training) and then works in a real job environment to improve their skills.
Main Features of NAPS
The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme offers many useful features for both companies and individuals. Let’s look at the main highlights:
1. Stipend Support
- The government shares 25% of the apprentice’s monthly stipend, up to a maximum of ₹1,500 per month per apprentice.
- The rest of the stipend is paid by the employer.
2. Basic Training Cost Support
- If the apprentice needs basic training, the government will pay up to ₹7,500 for a maximum of 500 hours or 3 months.
- This makes it easier for companies to train freshers who have no prior skill training.
3. Online System
The whole process is made simple through an online portal www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in. Here, employers, apprentices, and training providers can register, apply, and track progress.
Who Can Benefit from NAPS?
The scheme is designed to benefit four main groups:
1. Industries / Companies: They can register online and post apprenticeship openings. They can search and shortlist candidates, submit training details, provide offer letters, and claim the government’s share of the stipend online.
2. Apprentices / Candidates: Anyone can register online and choose their preferred trade or job sector. They can search for companies, apply for apprenticeship training, and also choose a Basic Training Provider if they need basic training before joining work.
3. Regional Directorates (RDAT) / State Apprenticeship Advisers (SAA): These are the authorities who approve apprenticeship contracts. They monitor the training and review claims submitted by employers and training providers.
4. Basic Training Providers (BTP): These can be private or government ITIs that offer basic training to freshers. They help apprentices gain initial knowledge and place them with companies for on-the-job training.
Eligibility Criteria of National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme
For Employers: Employers should have a business and be registered on the apprenticeship portal. They must also have important documents like EPFO, ESIC, MSME, or Factory registration. Having a bank account linked with Aadhaar is also needed. Also, they must engage a minimum of 2.5% and a maximum of 10% of their total workforce as apprentices.
For Apprentices: Apprentices must be at least 14 years old and should have the required educational and physical qualifications for the trade. People who can apply include ITI pass-outs, PMKVY trainees, graduates, diploma holders, those who passed 10+2 with vocational training, and even freshers with no previous experience.
For Basic Training Providers: Government and private ITIs with available capacity can apply to become BTPs. They need to register online and go through an inspection before approval.
Types of Apprentices and Duration
Under NAPS, different types of people can get training, and the duration varies. If you are an ITI pass-out or have done training under PMKVY or MES, then you don’t need basic training. You directly go for practical training, which lasts between one to two years.
If you are a graduate in engineering or a diploma holder, you also don’t need basic training. The practical training is usually of the same duration one to two years.
If you are from Arts, Commerce, or Science background, your apprenticeship may last for around one year.
There are also candidates from ITIs who follow a dual-learning model, where they may need both practical and basic training. Their total training time can range from five to nine months, depending on their trade and course.
Lastly, freshers who have never undergone any formal training will first receive three months of basic training, followed by one to two years of on-the-job training in a company.
Sectors Covered Under NAPS
NAPS covers a wide range of industries, making it useful for people from all kinds of educational backgrounds. Some sectors include:
- IT and Electronics
- Automobile
- Food Processing
- Healthcare
- Banking & Finance
- Construction
- Agriculture
- Gems and Jewellery
- Textile & Handloom
- Hospitality & Tourism
- Media & Entertainment
- Mining
- Retail & Logistics
- Security
- Leather
- Aviation
This variety gives apprentices a chance to choose the sector they are interested in and learn skills that match their career goals.
How Does the Claim Process Work?
First, the employer pays the full stipend to the apprentice, including the government’s share. After that, the company uploads the attendance and payment proof on the NAPS portal. The government then checks everything and reimburses 25% of the stipend, which is up to ₹1,500 per month per apprentice. This money is transferred directly to the employer’s bank account every three months.
How to Apply for Apprenticeship Training?
For Apprentices: Go to www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in and register yourself. After that, you can choose your preferred sector and trade, search for apprenticeship jobs, and apply to the companies. If you need basic training, you can also select a training provider. Once a company offers you a position, accept the offer and sign the contract digitally.
For Employers: Employers need to register on the same portal. They can then post job openings, shortlist candidates, submit apprenticeship contracts, and upload all training details. They also need to upload proof of payment to get the government’s financial support.
For Training Providers: They need to register as well. After approval, they can start giving basic training to freshers and also help them find on-the-job training opportunities.
Certification and Job Opportunities
Once the apprentice completes their training, they have to appear for a test conducted by the National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT). If they pass, they get a National Apprenticeship Certificate, which is valid across India. This certificate is very helpful while applying for jobs in both government and private companies.
Why is NAPS Important?
This scheme helps job seekers get real experience while learning skills. It also helps industries train their workforce without spending too much money. By connecting education with actual work, NAPS helps reduce unemployment and improves job quality in India. It gives people a chance to learn while earning, and prepares them for a better future.
Conclusion
The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) is a great step by the Indian government to help people learn skills and get jobs. It supports students, freshers, and job seekers while also helping businesses find trained workers. If you are someone who wants to learn while working or a company that wants to train future employees, then NAPS is the right opportunity.
Start today by visiting www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in and take the first step toward skill development and a better future.