National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme: Unlocking Opportunities for Skill Development

In the pursuit of bolstering the workforce with skilled individuals, the Government of India initiated the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) in August 2016. This visionary scheme aims to foster apprenticeship programs throughout the nation by offering financial incentives, technological support, and advocacy. 

Source: PIB

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In this comprehensive article, we will delve into various facets of the NAPS, from its fundamental concepts to eligibility criteria, benefits, and application procedures. So, let's embark on a journey to unravel the intricacies of this groundbreaking initiative.

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What is the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS)?

The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme, often abbreviated as NAPS, is a pioneering program introduced by the Indian government to promote apprenticeships across the country. The scheme's primary objectives are to:

• Encourage skill development among the youth.
• Bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
• Facilitate seamless integration of apprenticeship with academic courses.
• Provide financial incentives and technological support to employers and apprentices.

Now, let's explore the key features that make NAPS a game-changer in the realm of skill development.

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Components of NAPS

NAPS comprises two key components:

• The government shares 25% of the prescribed stipend with employers. This is subject to a maximum of INR 1500 per month per apprentice. This financial support aims to incentivize employers to offer apprenticeship opportunities and reduce their burden.
• For apprentices who directly enter apprenticeship training without any formal trade training, the government shares the basic training cost, up to INR 7500, for a maximum of 500 hours/3 months. This component helps ensure that employers have access to skilled apprentices without incurring high training costs.

Scope of NAPS

NAPS covers a wide range of industries and sectors, including:

• Manufacturing: Engineering, construction, textiles, garments, pharmaceuticals, food processing, etc.
• Services: IT, BPO, tourism, hospitality, healthcare, retail, logistics, etc.
• Agriculture & allied industries: Dairy, poultry, fisheries, horticulture, sericulture, etc.
• Handloom & handicrafts: Weaving, embroidery, carving, pottery, etc.

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Features of the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme

NAPS boasts a plethora of features that set it apart from traditional skill development initiatives:

Wider Options for Apprentices

One of NAPS's standout features is its integration with other government-approved schemes such as PMKVY and DDU-GKY. Courses endorsed by State and Central Governments will be linked with apprenticeship training, expanding the range of choices available to aspiring apprentices.

Tech-Savvy Administration

NAPS leverages technology to streamline the entire apprenticeship implementation process. An online portal acts as a central hub for candidates, industry stakeholders, government bodies, and training providers. This digital platform simplifies interactions and ensures efficient management.

Involvement of States/UTs

Recognizing the vital role played by State Governments, NAPS actively involves them in monitoring apprenticeship training within State Public Sector Undertakings and Private Sector Establishments. This approach ensures that even smaller industries and MSMEs come under the purview of the scheme.

Promoters and Facilitators/Third Party Aggregators (TPA)

Given the complexity of the scheme involving multiple stakeholders, facilitators or Third Party Aggregators (TPAs) are pivotal. They mobilize apprentices, align their preferences with industry demand, and assist establishments in identifying Basic Training Providers, all in accordance with guidelines issued by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).

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Categories of Apprentices

NAPS caters to a diverse range of apprenticeship categories, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility:

Trade Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships are available for individuals with qualifications ranging from 8th grade to B.Sc. This category embraces a broad spectrum of learners.

Graduate Apprenticeship

Designed for engineers and graduates, this category offers specialized apprenticeships to those pursuing higher education.

Technician Apprenticeship

For diploma holders, this category provides opportunities to gain practical experience in their chosen fields.

Technical Apprenticeship

Catering to 10+2 graduates, this category bridges the gap between academic learning and hands-on experience.

Optional Trade Apprenticeship

This category extends apprenticeships to those with qualifications as low as 5th grade, promoting vocational training and skill development.

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Routes of Apprenticeship Training

NAPS offers multiple routes for individuals to embark on their apprenticeship journey:

ITIs Pass Outs

• Basic Training Duration: Not required
• Practical Training/On-the-Job Training Duration: Minimum 1 year, maximum 2 years

Trainees with PMKVY/MES-SDI Courses or State/Central Government Approval

• Basic Training Duration: Not required
• Practical Training/On-the-Job Training Duration: Minimum 1 year, maximum 2 years

Graduates/Diploma Holders or Pursuing Graduation/Diploma in Engineering, Medical, or Paramedical

• Basic Training Duration: Not required
• Practical Training/On-the-Job Training Duration: Maximum 1 year

Graduates/Diploma Holders/10+2 Vocational Certificate Holders Pursuing Arts, Commerce, or Science Streams

• Basic Training Duration: Not required
• Practical Training/On-the-Job Training Duration: Maximum 1 year

Dual-Learning Mode from ITIs

• Basic Training Duration: Not required
• Practical Training/On-the-Job Training Duration: Minimum 5 months, maximum 9 months

Fresher Apprentices

• Basic Training Duration: 3 Months
• Practical Training/On-the-Job Training Duration: Minimum 1 year, maximum 2 years

Now that we've covered the routes let's explore the various categories of apprenticeships offered under NAPS.

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Fields of National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme

NAPS encompasses designated and optional trades, offering a wide array of fields for apprentices to explore:

Designated Trade

These trades and occupations are officially recognized and notified by the government. Currently, there are 259 designated trades available for apprenticeship training, offering a plethora of options to choose from.

Optional Trade

In contrast, optional trades are determined by the employer. They can span various sectors, including engineering, technology, and vocational courses. This flexibility ensures apprentices can align their training with their career aspirations.

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Impact of NAPS

Here are the key impacts of the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS):

• Addresses the skill gap by providing practical training and industry exposure.
• Improves employability by equipping individuals with valuable skills and industry experience.
• Promotes entrepreneurship by instilling an entrepreneurial mindset and supporting individuals in starting their own ventures.
• Fosters collaboration between educational institutions and industries, ensuring industry-relevant education.
• Encourages inclusivity by promoting the participation of women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from marginalized communities.
• Boosts industrial productivity by providing organizations with a skilled workforce.
• Brings fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to industries.
• Contributes to India's economic growth by building a skilled workforce.

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Benefits Of the NAPS Scheme

NAPS doesn't stop at providing apprenticeship opportunities; it goes a step further to support both employers and apprentices:

• Cost-Sharing: The government shares the cost of training with employers, making apprenticeships financially viable for businesses.
• Course Coverage: NAPS encompasses courses under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), modular employable skills, and other programs approved by State and Central Governments, broadening the scope of skill development.
• Seat and Vacancy Information: Applicants can easily access information about available apprenticeship seats and vacancies through the official portal, enhancing transparency.
• Monitoring: The official portal also acts as a monitoring tool for apprenticeship training, ensuring accountability and quality.
• Online Transactions: NAPS facilitates online payments of the government's share and the submission of claims, simplifying administrative processes.

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Eligibility for NAPS

To become an apprentice under NAPS, candidates must meet certain criteria:

• Age Requirement: Apprentices must be at least 14 years old and comply with the Apprentices Act, 1961.
• Registration: Every apprentice must register on the official portal.
• Aadhaar Number: Possession of an Aadhaar number is mandatory.
• Educational Qualification: Apprentices must possess the minimum educational qualifications specified for their chosen trade.

However, it's essential to note that apprentices under the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) administered by the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) are not eligible for NAPS.

Exclusions

As mentioned earlier, apprentices covered under NATS administered by MHRD are excluded from the NAPS scheme.

Application Process

The application process for NAPS is straightforward and can be completed online. Here are the steps:

• Online Registration: Candidates need to register on the official portal.
• Search for Apprenticeships: Based on their location and preferences, applicants can search for apprenticeship opportunities.
• Select a Suitable Program: After finding a suitable apprenticeship, candidates can choose the program that aligns with their profile and aspirations.
• Check Seat Availability: It's important to check the number of available seats for the selected program.
• Contact HR Details: Once the ideal apprenticeship is identified, candidates can get in touch with the HR department of the respective establishment offering the apprenticeship training.

Documents Required

When applying for NAPS, candidates need to provide the following documents:

• Aadhaar Card: A mandatory document for registration.
• Documents as Per Selected Trade: Depending on the chosen trade, specific documents may be required.

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Conclusion

The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme is a transformative initiative aimed at upskilling India's workforce and bridging the gap between education and employment. It offers a wide range of opportunities, embraces technological advancements, and actively involves various stakeholders. By simplifying the application process and sharing the cost of training, NAPS empowers both employers and apprentices to contribute to the nation's economic growth.

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