Dharmendra Pradhan, the Union Minister for Education, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, unveiled the initiation of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) within the framework of the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS). This strategic move aims to bolster the realm of apprenticeship training while simultaneously encouraging active participation from both industries and aspiring young individuals.
Amidst the inauguration event, an approximate sum of Rs. 15 crores was disbursed, benefiting one lakh apprentices. This financial distribution symbolically marked the official commencement of the DBT implementation within the ambit of NAPS.
From its inception in 2016 until July 31, 2023, the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme has successfully engaged a staggering 25 lakh youths as apprentices. Demonstrating remarkable progress, the scheme witnessed approximately 2.6 lakh apprentices completing their training during the fiscal year 2023-24.
A noteworthy accomplishment attributed to the proactive efforts of the Government of India is the exponential surge in the count of active establishments participating in apprenticeship training. The tally has soared from 6,755 in 2018-19 to a commendable 40,655 in the fiscal year 2023-24.
Commending the introduction of DBT in NAPS, Dharmendra Pradhan expressed his fervor for invigorating the apprenticeship ecosystem within the nation. He emphasized that this initiative resonates with Prime Minister Modi’s vision and extended his congratulations to the one lakh apprentices who received stipends through DBT on this auspicious occasion.
Engaging with industry clusters and zealous apprentices from various states including Maharashtra, Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, the Minister showcased the substantial progress in apprenticeship training. Notably, this progress included a remarkable 488% surge in the number of establishments engaged in training since the inception of NAPS.
As an integral facet of the comprehensive strategy to fortify apprenticeship programs, the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE) orchestrated the Chintan Shivir, aimed at fostering enhanced engagement among apprenticeship stakeholders. The Shivir comprised three distinct breakout sessions with the following focal points:
- Stakeholder Collaborations to Cultivate an Aspirational Apprenticeship Environment
- Formulating Strategies and Practices to Advance High-Quality Apprenticeship
- Establishment of an Inclusive and Diverse Apprenticeship Ecosystem
Throughout these sessions, the emphasis was placed on nurturing productive dialogue, amplifying participation, elevating standards, and ensuring equitable opportunities for all, including marginalized communities.
The introduction of DBT through NAPS has heralded a transformation in the landscape of apprenticeship training. The Government of India now reimburses 25% of the stipend, up to Rs. 1500/- per month per apprentice, offered by employers. The DBT implementation is expected to fuel an increase in the number of apprentices beyond the 30% target, thereby contributing to a robust workforce and a thriving economy.
The Government of India introduced the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) in August 2016, a strategic initiative designed to foster apprenticeship nationwide. The program is structured to incentivize apprenticeship adoption by providing financial support, technological assistance, and advocacy guidance. NAPS rests upon two primary components:
- Employers receiving 25% of the prescribed stipend, capped at a maximum of Rs. 1500/- per month per apprentice.
- Contribution towards fundamental training expenses, extending up to a maximum of Rs. 7,500 per apprentice.