National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme

Scheme Introduction: A Brief Overview

For many young people, gaining practical work experience can be just as important as completing a formal course or qualification. The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) was introduced to strengthen this connection between skill development and the workplace. Launched by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) on 19 August 2016, the scheme promotes apprenticeship training by helping eligible candidates gain practical, industry-based experience while receiving a stipend. The scheme is currently being implemented in its second phase, known as NAPS-2 or PM-NAPS. Under the current framework, the Government provides partial stipend support of 25% of the minimum stipend, subject to a maximum of ₹1,500 per month per apprentice, which is transferred directly to the apprentice through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). NAPS-2 also focuses on increasing apprenticeship opportunities, particularly for MSMEs and establishments in underserved areas, while helping candidates build job-relevant skills through on-the-job training.

The scheme is administered under the overall guidance of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), with the apprenticeship system implemented through the Directorate General of Training (DGT), Regional Directorates of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and State Apprenticeship Advisers, depending on the establishment and trade. The National Apprenticeship Portal is used for important activities such as candidate and establishment registration, apprenticeship opportunities, contract processing and other online processes. NAPS covers apprenticeship opportunities in Designated Trades and Optional Trades, while eligible candidates may include school pass-outs, ITI candidates, freshers and candidates who have completed relevant skill-training programmes, subject to the qualification and other requirements of the concerned trade.

One of the major attractions of NAPS-2 is the opportunity to earn while gaining workplace experience. The minimum stipend rates were revised in September 2025 and now range from ₹6,800 to ₹12,300 per month, depending on the apprentice's qualification category. The establishment pays the prescribed stipend, while the eligible Government contribution is credited directly to the apprentice's bank account through DBT. Apprenticeship training generally combines practical or on-the-job training with the required basic training, depending on the category of apprentice and trade. Candidates must generally be at least 14 years old, with an age of 18 years applicable for apprenticeships in hazardous industries, and must meet the educational, technical and physical requirements prescribed for the selected trade. For receiving NAPS-2 Government stipend support, the candidate must generally be within the prescribed upper age limit of 35 years at registration.

Applying for NAPS is an online process. Candidates can register on the National Apprenticeship Portal, complete their profile and search for suitable apprenticeship opportunities posted by registered establishments. After selection, the apprenticeship offer and contract are processed through the portal before the candidate begins the prescribed training. Candidates can also participate in Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Melas (PMNAM), which provide opportunities for establishments and prospective apprentices to connect. Apprentices should keep their Aadhaar, educational qualification details and bank account information ready for registration and DBT-related requirements. For assistance with apprenticeship-related matters, candidates can use the support and grievance mechanisms available through the National Apprenticeship Portal and the concerned Regional Directorate of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship or State Apprenticeship Adviser.

Those looking for other apprenticeship opportunities may also explore the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS), which is particularly relevant for eligible graduates, diploma holders and other categories covered under its framework. Candidates interested in state-specific apprenticeship opportunities can also check the Goa Chief Minister's Apprenticeship Scheme. These schemes can help readers compare different apprenticeship and practical-training opportunities according to their qualification and eligibility.

Scheme Benefits

The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS-2) helps candidates gain practical workplace experience while receiving a stipend during their apprenticeship. The main benefits of the scheme include:

• Eligible apprentices receive Government stipend support of 25% of the minimum stipend, up to ₹1,500 per month, through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
• Apprentices receive the prescribed stipend from the establishment during the training period, helping them earn while they learn.
• Candidates get practical, industry-based training that helps them develop job-relevant skills and workplace experience.
• The scheme provides apprenticeship opportunities in both Designated Trades and Optional Trades across different industries.
• Eligible candidates can gain experience in sectors such as automotive, manufacturing, electronics, IT-ITeS, retail, logistics, healthcare, tourism and hospitality, among others.
• Apprentices can receive recognised certification after successfully completing the required training and assessment.
• The scheme gives ITI candidates, school pass-outs, freshers and eligible skill-training candidates opportunities to enter workplace-based training.
• Apprenticeship opportunities are promoted among MSMEs and establishments in underserved areas, helping expand access to industry training.
• Eligible candidates from the North-Eastern Region undertaking apprenticeship outside their home State may receive additional support of up to ₹1,500 per month under the applicable special provision.
• The online apprenticeship system makes it easier for candidates to register, find opportunities, apply, accept offers and process apprenticeship contracts through the National Apprenticeship Portal.
• Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Melas (PMNAM) provide candidates with additional opportunities to connect with establishments offering apprenticeship positions.

Overall, NAPS-2 combines stipend support, practical training and industry exposure, helping eligible candidates build workplace skills and improve their employment opportunities.

NAPS-2 Stipend Amount and Government Contribution

The stipend is one of the main benefits that makes apprenticeship attractive to candidates. Under NAPS-2, the establishment pays the apprentice the prescribed stipend, while the Government provides a partial contribution directly to the apprentice through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

These revised minimum stipend rates were notified in September 2025. An establishment can pay more than the prescribed minimum, but the Government's NAPS-2 contribution remains limited to 25% of the applicable minimum stipend, subject to a maximum of ₹1,500 per month for each eligible apprentice.

For example, if the applicable minimum stipend is ₹8,200 per month, 25% would be ₹2,050. Since the NAPS-2 Government contribution is capped at ₹1,500, the Government contribution in this case will be ₹1,500 per month.

The Government contribution is not paid as a separate cash benefit to the establishment. It is transferred directly to the eligible apprentice's bank account through the DBT system after the required stipend-payment conditions are fulfilled.

Under the revised stipend structure, the minimum rates increase further for apprentices continuing into later years of training, as provided under the applicable apprenticeship rules.

Types of Apprenticeship Trades Covered Under NAPS-2

NAPS-2 offers apprenticeship opportunities in different types of trades. These mainly include Designated Trades and Optional Trades. Candidates who do not have formal trade training can also join through the fresher apprenticeship route.

1. Designated Trades

Designated Trades are officially notified by the Central Government under the Apprentices Act, 1961. These trades have fixed training standards, course content and assessment rules.

Electrician, Fitter, Welder and Electronics Mechanic are some common examples. The required qualification and training period can be different for each trade.

2. Optional Trades

Optional Trades allow companies and other establishments to provide apprenticeship training based on their work requirements. These can include engineering, non-engineering, technology and vocational trades.

The qualification, training period and other requirements may vary from one trade to another. Candidates should check the details of the apprenticeship before applying.

3. Fresher Apprentices

NAPS-2 also allows eligible candidates without previous formal trade training to join as fresher apprentices.

Where required, fresher apprentices first receive basic training and then move to practical, on-the-job training at the establishment. This helps them learn the required skills while gaining workplace experience.

Candidates can check the available apprenticeship opportunities and their requirements on the National Apprenticeship Portal.

Eligibility Requirements

Not every apprenticeship opportunity has the same qualification requirements, as eligibility depends on the trade and type of apprenticeship. However, candidates applying under NAPS-2 generally need to meet the following conditions:

• The candidate must be at least 14 years of age.
• For apprenticeships in designated trades involving hazardous industries, the minimum age is 18 years.
• The candidate should have passed at least Class 5, along with any additional educational or technical qualification required for the selected trade.
• The candidate must meet the prescribed physical fitness requirements for the concerned trade.
• The candidate must register on the National Apprenticeship Portal and complete the required registration formalities.
• Aadhaar is required for registration and DBT-related processes. An Aadhaar-linked bank account is required for receiving the Government's stipend contribution through DBT.
• Candidates who have completed ITI or other relevant skill-training programmes may apply for apprenticeship opportunities for which they meet the prescribed requirements.
• Freshers who have not received formal trade training may also be eligible for apprenticeship training, subject to the requirements of the concerned trade.
• For receiving Government stipend support under NAPS-2, the candidate must generally be 35 years of age or below at the time of registration.
• The candidate must satisfy any additional eligibility conditions prescribed for the particular apprenticeship opportunity or establishment.

Eligibility can therefore vary from one apprenticeship to another. Candidates should check the qualification, age, trade and other requirements mentioned for the specific opportunity before applying.

Required Documents

Before registering for an apprenticeship under NAPS-2, candidates should keep their basic personal, educational and banking details ready. The documents and information generally required include:

• Aadhaar card or other permitted identification details for registration and e-KYC.
• Aadhaar-linked bank account details for receiving the Government stipend contribution through DBT.
• Mobile number linked with the registration process for OTP verification and communication.
• Educational qualification certificates and marksheets, as applicable.
• ITI, National Certificate or State Certificate details, wherever applicable to the selected trade.
• Diploma, vocational or other skill-training certificates, wherever required for the apprenticeship opportunity.
• Passport-size photograph, if required during registration or by the establishment.
• Any additional documents or details specifically requested by the establishment or for the selected apprenticeship trade.

Candidates should make sure that the information entered on the apprenticeship portal matches their documents, particularly their Aadhaar, educational qualification and bank account details, to avoid delays in registration or DBT payments.

Steps to Apply

Applying for an apprenticeship under NAPS-2 is mainly done online through the National Apprenticeship Portal. Candidates can register, complete their profile, find suitable apprenticeship opportunities and accept an offer through the portal.

Follow these steps to apply:

1. Register on the apprenticeship portal: Open the National Apprenticeship Portal and choose the candidate registration option. Enter your basic details and complete the required verification.
2. Complete your profile: After registration, fill in your personal, Aadhaar, educational and bank account details. Make sure the information is correct, as your bank details are also used for eligible DBT stipend support.
3. Find an apprenticeship: Search the available apprenticeship opportunities on the portal. You can check opportunities based on trade, establishment, location and other available details.
4. Apply for a suitable opportunity: Select an apprenticeship for which you meet the stated requirements and submit your application online. The establishment will review the applications and select suitable candidates.
5. Accept the offer: If you are selected, the establishment will send an apprenticeship offer through the portal. Check the details and accept the offer online if you agree to the terms.
6. Complete the apprenticeship contract: After accepting the offer, the apprenticeship contract is prepared online. It is signed by the candidate and the establishment and processed for the required approval or registration.
7. Start your training: Once the contract is registered or approved, you can start the apprenticeship. Depending on the type of apprenticeship, training may include basic training followed by practical, on-the-job training.
8. Receive the stipend: The establishment pays the prescribed stipend during the apprenticeship. Eligible Government support under NAPS-2 is then transferred directly to the apprentice's bank account through DBT.

Apprenticeship Mela

Candidates who are looking for apprenticeship opportunities can also participate in Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Melas (PMNAM). These events bring establishments and prospective apprentices together and provide another way to find apprenticeship opportunities.

Before applying, candidates should check the specific apprenticeship opportunity carefully because the qualification, training period and other requirements can vary from one trade or establishment to another.

NAPS Apprenticeship Training Duration: How Long Does the Training Last?

There is no single fixed duration for every NAPS apprenticeship. The training period depends on the trade, the apprentice's qualification and whether the candidate is entering through a fresher, designated-trade or optional-trade route.

For fresher apprentices, the training can include a period of basic training before the apprentice moves into on-the-job training. The exact structure depends on the approved curriculum and the selected trade.

In the wider apprenticeship framework, the training period can range from around 6 months to 3 years, depending on the category and trade. Candidates should therefore check the duration mentioned in the specific apprenticeship opportunity rather than assuming that every NAPS apprenticeship lasts for one year.

The training combines practical exposure with the instruction required for the concerned trade. During the apprenticeship, the candidate works and learns in the establishment under the conditions prescribed for apprenticeship training.

After completing the required training period and assessment, the apprentice becomes eligible for the applicable certification or recognition under the relevant apprenticeship category.

Relevant Links

• Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE)
• National Apprenticeship Portal
• NAPS-2 Guidelines and Orders
• Apprenticeship Rules and Guidelines
• NAPS FAQs

Contact Information

Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE)

• Phone: 011-23465800
• Email: [email protected]
• Address: Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Kaushal Bhawan, New Moti Bagh, New Delhi – 110023