Since its inception, NAPS has engaged over 41.2 lakh apprentices nationwide, with 26 lakh apprentices trained under NAPS-2 alone.
BHUBANESWAR (India CSR): The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has set an ambitious goal to engage 46 lakh apprentices by March 2026 under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme-2 (NAPS-2). This target was a key focus at the recent Zonal Review Meeting for Eastern and Southern states, held at the World Skill Centre in BHUBANESWAR, bringing together stakeholders from 18 States and Union Territories to drive India’s skill development agenda forward.
Atul Kumar Tiwari, MSDE Secretary, outlined the vision during his address. He highlighted the scheme’s success, with over 41.2 lakh apprentices already engaged nationwide, including 26 lakh under NAPS-2, a significant milestone celebrated at the BHUBANESWAR event. Tiwari emphasized adapting to industry trends like Artificial Intelligence and Electric Vehicle mechanics to ensure youth gain globally relevant skills.
Rs 1,550 Crore Disbursed in Stipends Through Direct Benefit Transfer
The meeting, themed Apprenticeship Training for an Industry-Ready Workforce, showcased NAPS-2’s role in bridging education and employability. The scheme has disbursed Rs. 1,550 crore in stipends via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), ensuring transparency and financial inclusion for apprentices. Southern states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Telangana have led with over 8 lakh apprentices, while West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Odisha excelled in the Eastern Zone.
A significant highlight was the rise in female participation, reflecting NAPS-2’s focus on inclusivity. The scheme also targets underserved regions like the North-east, aiming to expand opportunities for marginalized communities. Presentations from industry leaders like Toyota Kirloskar, Tata Group, and Bharat Electronics Limited inspired greater MSME involvement, with MSMEs currently forming 38% of active NAPS establishments.
Key Challenges
The MSDE identified key challenges, including gaps in stipend disbursement and low industry participation in certain regions. To address these, stakeholders proposed strengthening governance through State Implementation Review Committees and promoting initiatives like the Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Program (AEDP). Since June 2022, 4,988 Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Melas (PMNAM) and 219 workshops have connected youth with industries, boosting engagement.
Actionable steps outlined include expanding rural outreach, enhancing monitoring for quality assurance, and fostering educational partnerships for seamless skill transitions. “We’re committed to making apprenticeship training aspirational and impactful,” Tiwari added, underscoring the role of technology and collaboration with states, industries, and MSMEs.
NAPS-2 aligns with the Skill India Mission, aiming to create a global-standard apprenticeship ecosystem. By empowering youth with in-demand skills, the scheme supports India’s economic growth while offering young Indians a pathway to meaningful careers.
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