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NAPS

National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) | Apprenticeship Internship Portal
Government Skill Development Initiative

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.

NAPS at a Glance
Scheme NameNational Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS)
MinistryMinistry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India
Implementing AuthorityDirectorate General of Training (DGT), in coordination with employers and training providers
Scheme TypeCentral Government Skill Development & Apprenticeship Scheme
BeneficiariesIndian candidates seeking industry-based apprenticeship training, and employers seeking a trained workforce
EligibilityVaries by opportunity; commonly 10th, 12th, ITI, Diploma, Graduate, Engineering or vocational qualification holders
CertificateNationally recognised apprenticeship completion certificate, subject to successful assessment
StipendMonthly stipend as per applicable apprenticeship guidelines (amount varies by trade and employer)
Official Websiteapprenticeshipindia.gov.in
Application ModeOnline, 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.

Eligibility by Qualification
QualificationTypically EligibleCommon Trades / Areas
10th PassYes, for select tradesBasic industrial & retail trades
12th PassYesOffice support, retail, technical assistant roles
ITIYesTrade-specific technical apprenticeships
DiplomaYesTechnician-level engineering & production roles
GraduateYesBusiness, administrative & para-professional roles
EngineeringYesCore engineering & technology apprenticeships
VocationalYesSector skill council-aligned trades
FreshersYesEntry-level opportunities across most sectors

Eligible Industries

NAPS apprenticeship opportunities span a wide range of sectors across the Indian economy.

IndustryTypical Roles
ManufacturingProduction, quality control, machine operation
AutomobileAssembly, servicing, technical support
ElectronicsAssembly, testing, technical maintenance
TextileProduction, quality checking, machine operation
BankingCustomer service, back-office support
HealthcareSupport staff, administrative, para-medical roles
LogisticsWarehouse operations, supply chain support
RetailSales support, inventory, customer service
HospitalityFront office, food & beverage, housekeeping
ITTechnical support, data entry, junior development roles
TelecomTechnical support, field operations
ConstructionSite 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. 1

    Registration

    Create a candidate account on the official Apprenticeship India Portal.

  2. 2

    Email Verification

    Verify your email address and mobile number to activate your account.

  3. 3

    Profile Completion

    Add personal details, educational qualifications and skills to your profile.

  4. 4

    Document Upload

    Upload identity, educational and bank documents as required.

  5. 5

    Search Apprenticeship

    Browse available opportunities by trade, location or employer.

  6. 6

    Apply

    Submit applications to relevant apprenticeship opportunities.

  7. 7

    Employer Review

    Employers review applications and shortlist suitable candidates.

  8. 8

    Selection

    Shortlisted candidates are selected, subject to employer requirements.

  9. 9

    Contract

    An apprenticeship contract is signed between the candidate and employer.

  10. 10

    Training

    Structured on-the-job training begins as per the agreed schedule.

  11. 11

    Assessment

    Candidates undergo assessment on completion of the training period.

  12. 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.

AspectApprenticeshipInternship
PurposeStructured, trade-based skill development leading to certificationShort-term exposure to a work environment or role
DurationTypically several months to a few years, based on tradeUsually a few weeks to a few months
CertificateNationally recognised apprenticeship certificateOrganisation-issued internship certificate
StipendGoverned by apprenticeship guidelinesVaries widely by organisation; not always mandated
EmploymentOften a pathway to long-term employment with the same employerNot typically linked to guaranteed employment
TrainingStructured, trade-specific, combines practical and classroom learningGenerally task-based, less standardised
Government RecognitionRegulated under the Apprentices Act and related rulesNot 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 Website

NATS

National Apprenticeship Training Scheme portal for technical and graduate apprenticeships.

Visit Website

Skill India

The Government of India’s umbrella skill development platform and mission portal.

Visit Website

NSDC

National Skill Development Corporation, supporting skill training initiatives across India.

Visit Website

PMKVY

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, the Government’s flagship short-term skill training scheme.

Visit Website

DDU-GKY

Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana, a rural skill development and placement scheme.

Visit Website

MSDE

Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, the nodal ministry overseeing NAPS.

Visit Website

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.

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