NAPS
Last updated: 27 July 2026
National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS)
The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) is an initiative of the Government of India designed to encourage apprenticeship training across industries. It helps candidates gain practical workplace skills while assisting employers in developing a skilled workforce through structured apprenticeship programmes.
Quick Highlights
- Government of India Initiative
- Industry-based Skill Training
- Monthly Stipend Support
- Nationally Recognised Apprenticeship
- For Freshers & Experienced Candidates
- Applicable Across Multiple Industries
Government Quick Facts
A snapshot of the scheme’s key details. Always confirm current information on the official portal before applying.
| Scheme Name | National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) |
|---|---|
| Ministry | Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India |
| Implementing Authority | Directorate General of Training (DGT), in coordination with employers and training providers |
| Scheme Type | Central Government Skill Development & Apprenticeship Scheme |
| Beneficiaries | Indian candidates seeking industry-based apprenticeship training, and employers seeking a trained workforce |
| Eligibility | Varies by opportunity; commonly 10th, 12th, ITI, Diploma, Graduate, Engineering or vocational qualification holders |
| Certificate | Nationally recognised apprenticeship completion certificate, subject to successful assessment |
| Stipend | Monthly stipend as per applicable apprenticeship guidelines (amount varies by trade and employer) |
| Official Website | apprenticeshipindia.gov.in |
| Application Mode | Online, through the official Apprenticeship India Portal |
About NAPS
Understanding the purpose, working and value of the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme.
Objectives
NAPS was designed to increase the number of apprentices being trained across the country by encouraging more employers to participate in apprenticeship programmes, while making apprenticeship an attractive pathway for both freshers and existing workers to gain formal, industry-recognised skills.
Why NAPS Was Launched
India has historically had a low apprentice-to-workforce ratio compared to many industrialised economies. NAPS was launched to close this gap by making it easier and more affordable for employers to engage apprentices, while giving candidates a structured route from classroom learning into paid, practical, on-the-job training.
How It Works
Candidates register on the official Apprenticeship India Portal and build a profile listing their qualifications and skills. Employers registered under the scheme post apprenticeship opportunities describing the trade, duration and requirements. Candidates apply, are shortlisted and selected by employers, and then undergo a structured training period combining practical work with related classroom instruction, culminating in an assessment and certification.
Benefits for Students
Access to paid, practical training, exposure to real industry environments, and a nationally recognised certificate that improves future employability.
Benefits for Employers
A cost-effective way to build a skilled, job-ready workforce trained to organisational standards, with government support for the apprenticeship process.
Benefits for Industry
A steady pipeline of trained talent across manufacturing, services and emerging sectors, helping close India’s skill gap at scale.
Key Features of NAPS
What makes the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme distinct from other training programmes.
💰 Earn While You Learn
Apprentices receive a monthly stipend while undergoing training, allowing them to earn as they build new skills.
🛠️ Practical Training
Hands-on, workplace-based learning under experienced professionals rather than classroom-only instruction.
🏭 Industry Exposure
Direct exposure to real industrial processes, equipment and workplace culture across multiple sectors.
📜 National Certificate
A nationally recognised apprenticeship certificate issued on successful completion and assessment.
🏛️ Government Support
Backed by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, with structured guidelines for employers and candidates.
💻 Digital Registration
Fully online registration, application and tracking through the official Apprenticeship India Portal.
📈 Modern Skill Development
Training aligned with current industry requirements across manufacturing, IT, services and emerging trades.
🚀 Career Growth
A structured stepping stone from education to employment, improving long-term career prospects.
Eligibility Matrix
General eligibility patterns seen across NAPS apprenticeship opportunities. Always check the specific notification for exact requirements.
| Qualification | Typically Eligible | Common Trades / Areas |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Pass | Yes, for select trades | Basic industrial & retail trades |
| 12th Pass | Yes | Office support, retail, technical assistant roles |
| ITI | Yes | Trade-specific technical apprenticeships |
| Diploma | Yes | Technician-level engineering & production roles |
| Graduate | Yes | Business, administrative & para-professional roles |
| Engineering | Yes | Core engineering & technology apprenticeships |
| Vocational | Yes | Sector skill council-aligned trades |
| Freshers | Yes | Entry-level opportunities across most sectors |
Eligible Industries
NAPS apprenticeship opportunities span a wide range of sectors across the Indian economy.
| Industry | Typical Roles |
|---|---|
| Manufacturing | Production, quality control, machine operation |
| Automobile | Assembly, servicing, technical support |
| Electronics | Assembly, testing, technical maintenance |
| Textile | Production, quality checking, machine operation |
| Banking | Customer service, back-office support |
| Healthcare | Support staff, administrative, para-medical roles |
| Logistics | Warehouse operations, supply chain support |
| Retail | Sales support, inventory, customer service |
| Hospitality | Front office, food & beverage, housekeeping |
| IT | Technical support, data entry, junior development roles |
| Telecom | Technical support, field operations |
| Construction | Site support, technical trades |
Required Documents
Keep the following documents ready before starting registration.
🪪 Aadhaar Card
Primary identity proof required for registration and verification.
💳 PAN Card
Required where applicable, for identity and financial verification.
🎓 Qualification Certificates
Marksheets or certificates for 10th, 12th, ITI, Diploma or Degree as applicable.
📷 Photograph
A recent passport-size photograph for your candidate profile.
✍️ Signature
A scanned copy of your signature for application forms.
🏦 Bank Passbook
Bank account details and IFSC code for stipend disbursement.
📱 Mobile Number
An active mobile number for OTP verification and updates.
✉️ Email Address
A valid email address for account verification and communication.
🏠 Address Proof
A valid document confirming your current residential address.
Application Timeline
The typical journey from registration to certification.
- 1
Registration
Create a candidate account on the official Apprenticeship India Portal.
- 2
Email Verification
Verify your email address and mobile number to activate your account.
- 3
Profile Completion
Add personal details, educational qualifications and skills to your profile.
- 4
Document Upload
Upload identity, educational and bank documents as required.
- 5
Search Apprenticeship
Browse available opportunities by trade, location or employer.
- 6
Apply
Submit applications to relevant apprenticeship opportunities.
- 7
Employer Review
Employers review applications and shortlist suitable candidates.
- 8
Selection
Shortlisted candidates are selected, subject to employer requirements.
- 9
Contract
An apprenticeship contract is signed between the candidate and employer.
- 10
Training
Structured on-the-job training begins as per the agreed schedule.
- 11
Assessment
Candidates undergo assessment on completion of the training period.
- 12
Certificate
Successful apprentices receive a nationally recognised completion certificate.
Stipend: How It Works
An overview of how stipend support functions under NAPS.
Who Receives Stipend
Candidates formally engaged as apprentices under a valid apprenticeship contract are eligible to receive a monthly stipend during their training period.
How Stipend Works
The stipend is paid on a monthly basis for the duration of the apprenticeship, in line with the trade, qualification level and applicable guidelines.
Who Pays Stipend
The stipend is generally paid by the employer engaging the apprentice, as part of the apprenticeship contract.
Payment Process
Stipend amounts are typically credited directly to the apprentice’s registered bank account on a monthly basis.
Applicable Guidelines
Stipend structures follow the Apprentices Act, associated apprenticeship rules and MSDE guidelines in force at the relevant time. Candidates should verify current applicable rates on the official portal rather than relying on fixed figures, since these can be revised.
Certificate & Recognition
What candidates gain upon successful completion of their apprenticeship.
🎓 Completion Certificate
Issued to apprentices who successfully complete their training period and pass the required assessment.
🏅 National Recognition
The certificate is recognised across India, reflecting standardised training and assessment criteria.
💼 Career Benefits
A recognised certificate strengthens a candidate’s resume and demonstrates verified, practical work experience.
🚪 Future Opportunities
Certified apprentices are better positioned for full-time roles, advanced training or further education pathways.
Benefits for Employers
Why organisations across India participate in the scheme.
👷 Skilled Workforce
Employers train apprentices according to their own operational standards, resulting in a workforce suited to their exact needs.
💵 Reduced Training Cost
Structured apprenticeship support can reduce the overall cost of building a trained team compared to conventional hiring and onboarding.
🏛️ Government Support
Employers benefit from defined guidelines and support mechanisms established under the scheme.
📊 Productivity
Apprentices contribute to daily operations while they train, adding value from early in the engagement.
🔗 Long-term Hiring
Apprenticeship allows employers to evaluate candidates over an extended period before making full-time hiring decisions.
Training Partners & Their Roles
NAPS works through coordinated roles across four key stakeholders.
Employers
Provide on-the-job training, mentorship, workplace exposure and, in most cases, the monthly stipend to apprentices.
Training Providers
Deliver related classroom instruction that complements practical, on-the-job learning at the workplace.
Candidates
Register, apply, participate actively in training and complete the required assessment to earn certification.
Government
Sets guidelines, maintains the official portal, and oversees the overall implementation of the apprenticeship framework.
Apprenticeship vs Internship
Understanding the difference helps candidates choose the right path.
| Aspect | Apprenticeship | Internship |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Structured, trade-based skill development leading to certification | Short-term exposure to a work environment or role |
| Duration | Typically several months to a few years, based on trade | Usually a few weeks to a few months |
| Certificate | Nationally recognised apprenticeship certificate | Organisation-issued internship certificate |
| Stipend | Governed by apprenticeship guidelines | Varies widely by organisation; not always mandated |
| Employment | Often a pathway to long-term employment with the same employer | Not typically linked to guaranteed employment |
| Training | Structured, trade-specific, combines practical and classroom learning | Generally task-based, less standardised |
| Government Recognition | Regulated under the Apprentices Act and related rules | Not governed by a dedicated apprenticeship law |
Governing Acts & Guidelines
The legal and policy framework behind apprenticeship training in India.
Apprentices Act, 1961
The founding legislation governing apprenticeship training in India, defining obligations for employers and the framework for apprentice engagement.
Apprenticeship Rules
Detailed rules made under the Act covering registration, contracts, training standards and related procedural matters.
MSDE Guidelines
Operational guidelines issued by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship for implementing apprenticeship promotion schemes.
Official Government Resources
Trusted government portals related to apprenticeship and skill development.
Apprenticeship India
The official national portal for apprenticeship registration, applications and employer listings.
Visit WebsiteNATS
National Apprenticeship Training Scheme portal for technical and graduate apprenticeships.
Visit WebsiteSkill India
The Government of India’s umbrella skill development platform and mission portal.
Visit WebsiteNSDC
National Skill Development Corporation, supporting skill training initiatives across India.
Visit WebsitePMKVY
Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, the Government’s flagship short-term skill training scheme.
Visit WebsiteDDU-GKY
Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana, a rural skill development and placement scheme.
Visit WebsiteMSDE
Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, the nodal ministry overseeing NAPS.
Visit WebsiteRelated Schemes
Other Government skill development and employment schemes worth exploring.
NATS
National Apprenticeship Training Scheme for technical and graduate apprentices, run alongside NAPS.
PMKVY
Short-term skill training programme offering certification across multiple job roles.
Skill India
The umbrella mission connecting various skill development schemes and initiatives.
DDU-GKY
Rural-focused skill training and placement-linked scheme for youth from rural households.
NSDC
Supports training partners and skill infrastructure across the country.
Related Apprenticeship Opportunities
Large public sector organisations regularly participate in apprenticeship hiring. Availability depends entirely on current official notifications.
Railway
Indian Railways periodically notifies apprenticeship openings across zones and workshops.
BHEL
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited engages apprentices across engineering and technical trades.
BEL
Bharat Electronics Limited offers apprenticeship opportunities in electronics manufacturing.
IOCL
Indian Oil Corporation Limited notifies apprenticeship vacancies across its operational units.
ONGC
Oil and Natural Gas Corporation offers apprenticeship training in technical and support trades.
HAL
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited engages apprentices in aerospace and engineering trades.
DRDO
Defence Research and Development Organisation periodically offers apprenticeship training opportunities.
Always confirm current openings through the respective organisation’s official notification or the Apprenticeship India Portal.
Important Government Notices
Please read the following notices carefully before proceeding with any application.
Eligibility Notice
Eligibility criteria vary by apprenticeship opportunity, trade and employer. Always check the specific official notification rather than relying solely on general guidance.
Stipend Notice
Stipend amounts and structures are subject to change under applicable Government guidelines. This page does not quote fixed figures; refer to the official portal for current rates.
Certificate Notice
Certification is issued only upon successful completion of training and assessment as per the applicable apprenticeship contract and guidelines.
Fraud Warning
Beware of individuals or websites asking for payment in exchange for guaranteed selection, job offers or certificates. NAPS registration and applications do not require payment to fraudulent intermediaries.
Official Portal Verification Notice
Always verify that you are using the genuine official Apprenticeship India Portal before entering personal, educational or banking information.
NAPS at a Glance
Key characteristics of the scheme’s reach and design.
National Scheme
Implemented across India under central government guidelines.
Multiple Industries
Spans manufacturing, services, IT, healthcare and more.
Nationwide Opportunities
Apprenticeship openings listed across states and sectors.
Recognised Certificate
Certification carries national recognition on completion.
Skill Development
Focused on building practical, industry-relevant capability.
Employer Participation
Backed by participating employers across the private and public sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about registration, eligibility, stipend, certification and more.
What is the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS)?
NAPS is a Government of India initiative that promotes apprenticeship training by connecting candidates with employers and supporting industry-based skill development across sectors.
How do I register for NAPS?
You can register by creating a candidate account on the official Apprenticeship India Portal using a valid mobile number and email address, then completing your profile.
Is registration free?
Candidates should refer to the official Apprenticeship India Portal for the latest information on registration requirements, as this page does not process applications directly.
Who is eligible to apply under NAPS?
Eligibility depends on the specific apprenticeship opportunity. Various programmes accept 10th pass, 12th pass, ITI, Diploma, Graduate, Engineering and vocational candidates.
Can ITI candidates apply for NAPS apprenticeships?
Yes, ITI candidates are commonly eligible for trade-specific technical apprenticeships listed under the scheme.
Can Diploma holders apply?
Yes, Diploma holders are generally eligible for technician-level engineering and production-oriented apprenticeship roles.
Can Graduates apply for apprenticeship opportunities?
Yes, graduates can apply for business, administrative and para-professional apprenticeship roles, depending on the specific opportunity.
Is there an age limit for NAPS apprenticeships?
Age requirements are set under the Apprentices Act and the specific apprenticeship notification, so candidates should check the applicable notification for exact limits.
Do I need prior work experience to apply?
No, NAPS is open to freshers as well as candidates with prior experience, depending on the requirements of the specific opportunity.
What certificate do I receive after completing an apprenticeship?
You receive a nationally recognised apprenticeship completion certificate after successfully finishing your training and passing the required assessment.
Is the apprenticeship certificate valid across India?
Yes, the certificate carries national recognition based on standardised training and assessment criteria.
Will I receive a stipend during apprenticeship?
Eligible apprentices generally receive a monthly stipend as per applicable apprenticeship guidelines and employer policies.
Who pays the stipend?
The stipend is typically paid by the employer engaging the apprentice, as part of the apprenticeship contract.
How is the stipend paid?
Stipend amounts are usually credited directly to the apprentice’s registered bank account on a monthly basis.
Does the stipend amount change?
Stipend structures are governed by applicable Government guidelines and may be revised over time, so candidates should check the official portal for current information.
What is expected of employers under NAPS?
Employers are expected to provide structured on-the-job training, mentorship and, where applicable, the monthly stipend, in line with the apprenticeship contract.
Can employers choose which apprentices to select?
Yes, employers review applications and shortlist candidates based on their own requirements before final selection.
What documents are required for registration?
Commonly required documents include Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, qualification certificates, photograph, signature, bank passbook details, mobile number and email address.
Do I need a bank account to apply?
Yes, a valid bank account is generally required so that stipend payments can be credited to the apprentice.
How is the selection process conducted?
After candidates apply, employers review applications, shortlist suitable candidates, and finalise selection before signing an apprenticeship contract.
What happens after I am selected?
Once selected, an apprenticeship contract is signed between the candidate and employer, after which structured training begins.
I’m facing login issues on the portal. What should I do?
Check that you are using the correct registered mobile number or email, and use the official portal’s password reset or support options if you continue to face issues.
How can I check my application status?
Application status can be tracked through your candidate dashboard on the official Apprenticeship India Portal.
How long does apprenticeship training last?
Training duration varies depending on the trade, qualification level and employer requirements, and is specified in the apprenticeship contract.
What does the assessment at the end of training involve?
The assessment evaluates the practical and theoretical skills gained during training and determines eligibility for the completion certificate.
What is an apprenticeship contract?
It is a formal agreement between the apprentice and employer outlining the training period, stipend and other terms, executed in line with applicable apprenticeship rules.
Can I apply to more than one apprenticeship opportunity at a time?
Candidates can generally apply to multiple relevant opportunities through their portal dashboard, subject to the portal’s application rules.
What happens if my application is rejected?
You can continue applying to other suitable apprenticeship opportunities listed on the portal based on your qualifications.
Are apprenticeship opportunities available in every state?
Opportunities vary by location and are posted by participating employers, so availability depends on current listings in your region.
Is NAPS only for engineering candidates?
No, NAPS covers a wide range of qualifications and sectors beyond engineering, including retail, healthcare, IT, hospitality and more.
Do I need to pay any agent or intermediary to get selected?
No. Apprenticeship registration and selection should only be done through the official portal; be cautious of anyone demanding payment for guaranteed selection.
What should I do if I suspect a fraudulent apprenticeship offer?
Verify any offer directly through the official Apprenticeship India Portal or the concerned employer, and avoid sharing personal or financial details with unverified sources.
Can apprenticeship lead to a permanent job?
While not guaranteed, many employers consider well-performing apprentices for long-term roles after successful completion of training.
Where can I get the most accurate and updated information?
Always refer to the official Apprenticeship India Portal and related Government notifications for the latest and most accurate scheme details.