Dharmendra Pradhan launches DBT in NAPS to strengthen apprenticeship ecosystem

Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister for Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, inaugurated the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) in the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) to strengthen apprenticeship training and encouraging the involvement of both industries and young individuals.

During the launch event, an approximate sum of Rs. 15 crores was disbursed to one lakh apprentices, signifying the official commencement of DBT in NAPS.

Progress and Impact of National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme

Since its inception in 2016 until July 31, 2023, the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme has engaged a total of 25 lakh youths as apprentices. The scheme has witnessed remarkable progress, with around 2.6 lakh apprentices successfully completing their training in the fiscal year 2023-24.

A notable achievement attributed to the Government of India’s proactive efforts is the exponential growth in the number of active establishments participating in apprenticeship training. The count has surged from 6,755 in 2018-19 to an impressive 40,655 in 2023-24.

Minister’s Perspective and Industry Interaction

Lauding the launch of DBT in NAPS, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan expressed his enthusiasm for invigorating the apprenticeship ecosystem in the nation. He emphasized that this initiative is aligned with Prime Minister Modi’s vision and congratulated the one lakh apprentices who received stipends through DBT on this auspicious occasion.

The Minister interacted with industry clusters and passionate apprentices from various states, including Maharashtra, Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. The engagement showcased the substantial progress in apprenticeship training, including a remarkable 488% increase in the number of establishments engaged in training since the inception of NAPS.

Chintan Shivir on “Enhancing Apprenticeship Engagement

As a component of the all-encompassing strategy to bolster apprenticeship programs, the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE) arranged the Chintan Shivir with the goal of heightening engagement among apprenticeship stakeholders. The Shivir comprised three distinct breakout sessions with the following focal points:

1. Stakeholder Collaborations to Cultivate an Aspirational Apprenticeship Environment
2. Formulating Strategies and Practices to Advance High-Quality Apprenticeship
3. Establishment of an Inclusive and Diverse Apprenticeship Ecosystem

During these sessions, the emphasis was placed on nurturing productive dialogue, amplifying participation, improving standards, and ensuring equitable prospects for all, encompassing marginalized communities as well.

DBT Implementation and Future Prospects

The introduction of DBT through NAPS has transformed the landscape of apprenticeship training. The Government of India reimburses 25% of the stipend, up to Rs. 1500/- per month per apprentice, undertaken by employers. With DBT implementation, a rise in the number of apprentices is expected beyond the 30% target, ultimately contributing to a robust workforce and a thriving economy.

National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS)

The Government of India introduced the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) in August 2016 as a strategic initiative to foster apprenticeship across the nation. This program is designed to stimulate apprenticeship adoption by offering financial incentives, technological assistance, and advocacy support. NAPS is built upon two primary components:

• Providing employers with 25% of the prescribed stipend, capped at a maximum of Rs. 1500/- per month per apprentice.
• Contributing towards the fundamental training expenses, extending up to a maximum of Rs. 7,500 per apprentice.

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