NAPS (National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme) 2023: Registration & Status

The Government of India has introduced the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) to promote apprenticeship training . In this article, we will provide comprehensive information about the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme. It  includes its objectives, benefits, features, eligibility criteria, required documents, and the application process.

What does the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme 2023 include?

Recognizing the importance of apprenticeship training, the Government of India has launched the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS).  National Apprenticeship Promotion or National Apprenticeship Mela aims at boosting apprenticeship training. Under this scheme, the government shares the cost of training with establishments that offer apprenticeship programs. This financial support aims to enhance apprenticeship training and make it more accessible.

The government shares the cost of basic training provided by basic training providers, with the maximum cost limited to Rs 7,500 for a period of 500 hours or three months. Additionally, the government contributes 25% of the prescribed stipend, up to a maximum limit of Rs 1,500 per month per apprentice, with employers.

It’s important to note that stipend support under NAPS is not provided during the basic training period for fresher apprentices. This scheme covers all categories of apprentices that are not included in other schemes. Apprentices are classified into five categories:

• Trade Apprentice
• Graduate Apprentices
• Technician Apprentices
• Vocational Apprentices
• Optional Trade Apprentices

National Apprenticeship Mela: Types of Apprenticeship Training

There are two types of NAPS apprenticeship training:

• Basic Training: Provided to individuals who have not received any prior training before on-the-job training. The government shares the cost of basic training up to Rs 7,500 to promote training.

• On-the-Job Training: Practical training provided within establishments, typically by the establishment itself. The government also shares the cost of on-the-job training up to a specified limit.

What does the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme aim to achieve?

The NAPS has set specific targets for each year:

• 2016-17: 5 lakh
• 2017-18: 10 lakh
• 2018-19: 15 lakh
• 2019-20: 20 lakh

Fields of National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme

The NAP scheme covers two fields:

• Designated Trade: These are trades or occupations notified by the government. Currently, there are 259 designated trades available for apprenticeship training.

• Optional Trade: These are trades or occupations determined by the employer, which may include fields in engineering, non-engineering, technology, or any vocational course.

National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme Eligibility Criteria

The NAPS eligibility criteria is as given below:

• For Employers:

1. Mandatory TIN/TAN number.
2. Registration on the apprenticeship portal.
3. Aadhar-linked bank account.
4. EPFO/ESIC/FACTORY/COOPERATIVE/MSME registration number.
5. Engagement of apprentices in a band of 2.5% to 10% of the total establishment strength.

• For Apprentices:

1. Registration on the portal.
2. Aadhar number.
3. Minimum age, educational qualification, and physical qualification prescribed for trade.
4. Compliance with the Apprentice Act requirements.
5. Completion of at least 14 years of age.

• For Basic Training Providers (BTPs):

• Aadhar-linked bank account.
• Physical verification by RDAT.
• Registration on the portal.

Required Documents for National Apprenticeship Mela

• Aadhar number
• Aadhar-linked bank account
• Residence certificate
• Passport size photograph
• Mobile number

How to Apply for the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme?

• Visit the official website of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
• On the homepage, click on “Apply for Apprenticeship Training.”
• Select establishment details, including name, region, state, district, and more.
• Click “Search” to find the establishment.
• Choose the establishment and click “Apply.”
• Complete the registration form with details such as the applicant’s registration number, date of birth, email ID, and more.
• Click “Apply” to submit the application.

How to Check Apprenticeship Status under NAPS?

• Visit the official website of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
• On the homepage, click on the “Apprentices” tab.
• Click “NAPS Apprenticeship Status.”
• Enter your registration number, date of birth, guardian name, and UID.
• Click “Search” to check the apprenticeship status.

How to make claims under Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme?

• Stipend Payment to Employers: Employers are required to pay the full stipend to apprentices through Aadhaar-linked bank accounts. After making payments, establishments upload proof of payment and attendance details. The Government of India reimburses the government’s share quarterly through Regional Directorates of Apprenticeship Training (RDAT) or State Apprenticeship Advisors (SAA). RDAT/states verify the uploaded information and reimburse the government’s share to the establishment’s bank account within 10 days of receiving claims.

• Basic Training Cost to Basic Training Providers: Basic training costs are paid by RDAT/States to basic training providers after successful completion of basic training. Rs 5,000 per apprentice is provided initially, with the remaining Rs 2,500 disbursed after apprenticeship training is completed.

Conclusion

The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) is a transformative initiative by the Government of India aimed at enhancing apprenticeship training across the nation. NAPS not only empowers the workforce with essential skills but also alleviates the financial burden on employers, benefiting all stakeholders. With ambitious targets and an efficient online portal, NAPS envisions a significant increase in apprentice engagement, from 2.3 lakh to an impressive 50 lakh, bolstering employability and experiential learning.
This scheme’s comprehensive approach covers various categories of apprentices, streamlines the application process, and ensures shared training costs and stipends, making it a beacon of hope for millions seeking skill development. NAPS 2023 is a catalyst for progress, driving economic growth and positioning India as a global hub of skilled manpower. It stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to fostering a knowledge-driven economy and empowering the nation’s youth for a brighter future.