Reforms in Apprenticeship Training Program

Summary of Apprenticeship Reforms and the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS)

The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) was launched in August 2016 to enhance apprenticeship training in India. As the scheme is currently in its second phase (NAPS-2), the government incentivizes participation through stipend support and systemic reforms aimed at increasing engagement from various sectors.

Key Highlights:

• Stipend Support: Under NAPS-2, the government provides a stipend support of 25% of the minimum prescribed stipend, up to a maximum of ₹1,500 per apprentice per month, disbursed through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.

• Current Participation: As of June 30, 2025, there are 8,52,376 apprentices enrolled, with 1,95,680 being women. Detailed state-wise participation statistics are available.

• Reform Initiatives:

  • The Ministry has streamlined processes through multiple Office Memorandums (OMs), upgraded the apprenticeship portal, and revised guidelines to boost participation from establishments.
  • Larger companies are now permitted to conduct in-house basic training, and centralized establishments can register with a single Regional Director of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (RDSDE).

• Engagement Techniques:

  • Regular meetings with Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs) and industries are conducted to enhance collaboration.
  • More than 36,000 establishments have already participated in the Prime Minister National Apprenticeship Melas (PMNAMs) since their inception in June 2022.

• Enhanced Support and Outreach: Financial assistance is also provided for states to organize apprenticeship fairs to improve industry outreach. Letters of engagement have been sent to corporate houses, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and state officials.

• Digital Initiatives: A partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has led to a digital awareness campaign to promote apprenticeship.

• Policy Changes: Recent proposals have included a stipend hike of 36%, enabling better financial sustenance for apprentices and encouraging completion rates—particularly crucial for retaining apprentices in training programs.

• Cac Recommendations: Decisions from the 38th Central Apprenticeship Council (CAC) advocate for:

  • Linking degree programs with apprenticeship opportunities.
  • Introducing blended training modes to accommodate diverse learning needs.
  • Setting aside training slots for individuals with benchmark disabilities.
  • Expanding apprenticeship into emerging sectors like IT, biotech, renewable energy, and telecommunications.

State-wise Distribution of Apprentices:

A comprehensive report indicates apprentices’ distribution across Indian states, showcasing significant total participation from states like Maharashtra (231,948), Tamil Nadu (103,025), and Uttar Pradesh (64,053). This reflects a wide, inclusive reach, particularly with efforts targeting marginalized communities and women.

Conclusion:

NAPS-2 is positioned as a transformative initiative under the Skill India mission, providing youth with structured, paid apprenticeship opportunities aimed at bridging the skill gap, fostering employability, and promoting industrial growth by tackling contemporary challenges posed by evolving sectors such as artificial intelligence, green energy, and healthcare. The scheme exemplifies a commitment to inclusive and sustainable economic growth, more notably in underserved regions like the Northeast.

Important Points:

• Launch Date: NAPS began in August 2016.
• Stipend Support: Up to ₹1,500 through DBT.
• Active Apprentices: 8,52,376 (as of June 2025).
• Women Apprentices: 1,95,680.
• Policy Reforms: Proposed stipend hike of 36%.
• Industry Engagement: Over 36,000 establishments involved in PMNAMs.
• Target Areas: Emerging sectors, inclusiveness for marginalized communities.
• CAC Recommendations: Linkage of degree programs, blended training, and provisions for apprentices with disabilities.