The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS), launched in August 2016, is a flagship initiative aimed at strengthening apprenticeship training across India. The scheme is currently in its second phase, NAPS-2, under which the Government provides partial stipend support up to 25% of the prescribed stipend, subject to a maximum of ₹1,500 per apprentice per month. This financial assistance is transferred directly to apprentices’ bank accounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system, ensuring transparency and efficiency.
Recent Reforms and Enhancements
To make apprenticeship more attractive, recent reforms have introduced a 36% stipend hike, raising the range from ₹5,000–9,000 to ₹6,800–12,300, indexed to the Consumer Price Index. This is expected to prevent dropouts and draw more talent. Decisions taken by the 38th Central Apprenticeship Council (CAC) also include:
- Integration of degree programs with apprenticeships.
- Promotion of blended training models.
- Reserved slots for persons with benchmark disabilities.
- Expansion into emerging sectors such as IT, biotechnology, renewable energy, and telecommunications, aligning industrial classifications with NIC 2008.
These reforms are designed to bridge India’s skill gap, enhance employability, and support industrial growth.
Targets and Progress
For FY 2025-26, a target of 13 lakh apprentices has been set. As of July 2025, around 3.99 lakh apprentices have already been engaged, with the balance expected to be achieved in the coming months. Since its inception, from 2018-19 to July 2025, NAPS has facilitated the engagement of 41.95 lakh apprentices, out of which 21.47 lakh have successfully completed training.
Sectoral Coverage and Application Process
NAPS-2 covers 49 sectors nationwide, with major participation from Automotive, IT-ITeS, Electronics, Retail, and Production & Manufacturing. Eligible candidates—minimum 14 years of age (18 years for hazardous industries) with the prescribed educational and physical qualifications (minimum Class 5 pass)—must register on the Apprenticeship Portal (www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in). Through the portal, candidates can explore opportunities, apply, accept offers, execute contracts online, and commence training seamlessly.
Expanding Outreach
To increase visibility and participation, the Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Mela (PMNAM) has been conducted monthly since June 2022, on the second Monday, across at least one-third of districts in every State. These melas, along with awareness workshops, connect candidates with employers and encourage establishments to engage apprentices.
Policy and Implementation Framework
The Apprentices Act, 1961, along with amendments in 2014 and 2019, provides the legal framework for apprenticeship training. Establishments with four or more employees can engage apprentices, while those with 30 or more are mandated to do so. The Central Apprenticeship Council (CAC) plays a pivotal role in shaping policy, aligning training with industry demand, and ensuring a robust apprenticeship ecosystem.
Apprenticeship training, under NAPS-2, continues to be a cornerstone of the Skill India Mission, creating a skilled workforce and driving India’s industrial growth.
