Understanding NATS and NAPS: India’s Key Apprenticeship Schemes
India, with its growing youth population, recognizes the importance of bridging the gap between education and employment. Two important initiatives by the Government of India—NATS (National Apprenticeship Training Scheme) and NAPS (National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme)—aim to make students industry-ready by providing practical training and increasing apprenticeship opportunities. Here’s a detailed look at both schemes:
1. National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS)
Overview:
The National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) is a government program under the Ministry of Education. It provides technical graduates and diploma holders with practical training in real-time work environments. This scheme helps students transition smoothly from classroom learning to hands-on professional work.
Objectives:
Enhance employability of graduates and diploma holders. Provide hands-on industry experience. Bridge the skill gap between education and employment.
Eligibility Criteria:
Indian citizens who have completed graduation/diploma in the last 3 years. Not previously undergone apprenticeship training under NATS. Age: As per the apprenticeship rules of the employer organization.
Benefits:
Industry-relevant experience. Monthly stipend (₹8,000–₹12,000 depending on qualification and company). Certificate from the Government of India after completion. Better job opportunities post-apprenticeship.
2. National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS)
Overview:
The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) is an initiative under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE). It aims to promote apprenticeships in industries by offering financial incentives to employers and spreading awareness among the youth.
Key Features:
Supports employers financially for hiring apprentices. Offers 25% of the prescribed stipend (up to ₹1,500 per month) to employers for each apprentice. Covers Basic Training Cost (up to ₹7,500 per apprentice). Open to all sectors including MSMEs.
Objectives:
Encourage industries to engage more apprentices. Enhance skills and employability of youth. Boost India’s skilled workforce under the Skill India Missio
Eligibility Criteria:
Candidates must be 14 years and above. Employers must be registered with the apprenticeship portal. Applies to both freshers and existing employees (who need reskilling).
Benefits:
For Apprentices: On-the-job training. Stipend support. Nationally recognized certificate. For Employers: Financial assistance. Skilled workforce pipeline. Increased productivity and retention.
NATS vs NAPS – Key Differences
| Feature | NATS | NAPS |
|---|---|---|
| Ministry | Ministry of Education | Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship |
| Target Group | Graduates and diploma holders | All youth above 14 years (including 10th/12th pass) |
| Training Duration | 12 months (typically) | 6 months to 3 years depending on the course |
| Financial Support | Government shares apprentice stipend | Govt reimburses stipend & basic training cost to employer |
| Training Provided By | Employers (with oversight by BOAT/BOPT) | Employers and Basic Training Providers (BTPs) |
Conclusion:
Both NATS and NAPS are critical for building a skilled and employable youth population in India. While NATS focuses more on graduates and diploma holders, NAPS covers a wider base including school pass-outs and reskilled individuals. These schemes provide real-world exposure, government support, and certified skill development—all of which help in better career prospects and job readiness.