National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme

Prelims: Public policy| Government Initiatives | Current events of national and international importance.

Why in News?

Recently, the 38^th Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), recommended a 36% increase in stipend provided under NAPS and NATS.

National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS)

Initiated on - 19th August 2016.
It is an initiative from the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, aimed at enhancing apprenticeship training throughout India.
The scheme provides financial assistance to organizations that implement apprenticeship programs.
Registration for NAPS is crucial for both candidates and establishments to take advantage of this program.
Objectives - To cultivate skilled labor for the industry by promoting experiential training on the job.
To motivate establishments to enroll apprentices by offering partial stipend support to them.
To create up-skilling opportunities for candidates who have completed short-term skill training.
To promote the enrollment of apprentices in small establishments (MSMEs) and those situated in underserved regions, such as aspirational districts and the North-East area.
This scheme offers financial incentives to establishments that engage apprentices under the Apprentices Act, 1961.
By providing partial stipend support and advocacy, the scheme encourages industries to develop a skilled workforce and bridge the gap between education and employment.
The initiative not only fosters skill development but also emphasizes the creation of a trained workforce that meets industry demands.
Candidates who finish their training are awarded a NAPS certificate, which boosts their employability.

National Apprenticeship Training Scheme

It is one of the flagship programs of the Government of India aimed at skilling Indian youth in various trade disciplines.
It operates under the provisions of the Apprentices Act, 1961, which was amended in 1973.
It provides practical, hands-on On-the-Job-Training (OJT) based skilling opportunities for Graduate, Diploma students, and Vocational certificate holders.
Duration - 6 months to 1 year.
During the apprenticeship period, apprentices receive a stipend, 50% of which is reimbursable to the employer.

Reference

Business Standard | NAPS & NATS