The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has expanded apprenticeship opportunities under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS), making over 5.5 lakh vacancies available for youth across India. Candidates can now choose from 1,000 approved courses spanning 36 sectors, demonstrating the government’s commitment to enhancing quality apprenticeship training.
In the fiscal year 2023-24, NAPS saw a significant surge, with total enrolments tripling to 9,31,368 youths. Maharashtra led the way with 2,63,156 participants, followed by Tamil Nadu (1,01,495), Gujarat (83,730), Karnataka (78,444), and Uttar Pradesh (71,444). This growth highlights the scheme’s role in preparing fresh talent for the workforce, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. MSDE Secretary Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari noted the positive impact of direct benefit transfers, with over ₹350 crore disbursed to apprentices’ accounts. He emphasized that over 32 lakh youth have participated in NAPS programs across 110 industry clusters.
The apprenticeship portal, www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in, offers a platform for candidates to explore job opportunities tailored to their qualifications and aspirations. The initiative is crucial in creating skilled manpower to support India’s vision of Viksit Bharat.
