New Delhi: In a transformative push to promote apprenticeship training as a mainstream career-building pathway, the 38th Central Apprenticeship Council (CAC) meeting chaired by Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), has recommended a 30% increase in stipends under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS).
If approved, the stipend range will rise from ₹5,000 – ₹9,000 to ₹6,800 – ₹12,300, aimed at reducing dropouts, enhancing participation, and making apprenticeships more aspirational across India’s diverse youth demographic.
The revised stipend is also proposed to be linked with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for biennial adjustments, keeping pace with inflation and salary cycles.
“Apprenticeship is the bridge between education, employment, and empowerment—especially for rural and underrepresented youth,” said Jayant Chaudhary. “With NAPS and NATS backed by a strong legal and institutional framework, we are committed to building a more inclusive, responsive, and aspirational skilling ecosystem.”
Key Recommendations to Strengthen Apprenticeship Training in India:
- Stipend Hike of 30% under NAPS and NATS
- Automatic CPI-based revisions every two years
- Introduction of Degree Apprenticeships and new terminologies for alignment with modern education systems
- Blended learning models for practical and basic training
- Creation of Regional Boards to boost scheme implementation and accessibility
- Inclusivity provisions for persons with benchmark disabilities
- Insurance coverage during apprenticeship contract period
- Industry classification updated to NIC Code 2008 to include new-age sectors like IT, biotech, and renewable energy
The CAC also reviewed the operational alignment of the Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS) with apprenticeship training, ensuring synchronized skill development. These proposals aim to broaden employer participation and offer greater protection, accessibility, and relevance for apprentices across India.
Growing Momentum in India’s Apprenticeship Ecosystem
A KPMG data report titled “National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (Feb 2018–Apr 2025)” was released at the meeting, showcasing:
- 43.47 lakh apprentices engaged under PM-NAPS
- 51,000+ establishments onboarded
- 20% female participation with targeted strategies for further growth
- 5.23 lakh graduates and diploma holders trained under NATS in FY24-25
The CAC comprises senior representatives from government, industry (BHEL, Indian Oil, Tata Group, Maruti Suzuki, Reliance), academia (UGC, AICTE), and labour bodies—ensuring a 360° policy dialogue on the future of apprenticeship training in India.
These bold reforms are aligned with the national vision of ‘Kushal Bharat, Viksit Bharat’, aiming to establish apprenticeship as a credible alternative to traditional degree-based employment pathways and drive a future-ready workforce.
