The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) is the Government of India's flagship program to promote apprenticeship training in the country. Launched in 2016 by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, NAPS incentivizes employers to engage apprentices by sharing the cost of training and stipend payments.
Under NAPS, the government reimburses 25% of the prescribed stipend (up to ₹1,500 per month) to employers for each apprentice they engage. Additionally, the government covers the entire cost of basic training for apprentices who need foundational skills before starting on-the-job training. These financial incentives have significantly increased the number of establishments participating in apprenticeship programs across India.
To participate in NAPS, both employers and apprentices must register on the official portal — apprenticeshipindia.gov.in. Employers create apprenticeship positions specifying the trade, duration, and stipend. Apprentices create profiles, search for available positions, and apply. Once matched, a formal contract of apprenticeship is registered with the relevant apprenticeship advisor.
NAPS covers Trade Apprentices (ITI pass-outs) and Optional Trade Apprentices. The minimum stipend rates are prescribed by the government and vary by trade and year of apprenticeship. Upon successful completion, apprentices receive a Certificate of Proficiency or a National Apprenticeship Certificate, which is recognized across industries and can enhance employability significantly.