Latest news with #NationalApprenticeshipPromotionScheme
India Gazette
11-06-2025
- Business
- India Gazette
Skill Development Ministry empowers 1.5 crore people in a year
New Delhi [India], June 11 (ANI): From dusty village corners to buzzing digital labs, India's skilling movement has found new energy. Over the past year, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), under the steady guidance of Minister of State (Independent Charge) Jayant Chaudhary, has quietly rewritten the story of India's workforce, empowering over 1.5 crore people with skills that matter, a press release said. This momentum didn't happen overnight. It has been built through a mix of policy reform, industry partnerships, and deep community outreach. Take the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY 4.0)--over 1.63 crore youth have been trained, many in future-ready sectors like electronics, logistics, and healthcare. Likewise, the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) has placed more than 8.7 lakh apprentices across 1.5 lakh businesses, reflecting a strong push toward practical, on-the-job learning. A key strength of this movement has been the rising participation of women. Through the Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) scheme, over 5.05 lakh individuals have been trained 80 per cent of them women. From tailoring and beauty services to digital skills, women across India are stepping into the workforce with growing confidence and capability. To make apprenticeships more attractive, the government approved a 36 per cent hike in stipends, now ranging from Rs 6,800 to Rs 12,300 per month, with adjustments every two years based on inflation. This practical support is helping reduce dropouts and making apprenticeships a more viable choice, especially for those from low-income households. The transformation goes beyond individuals--it extends to institutions. Traditional ITIs are being upgraded with smart classrooms and updated curricula. A major leap came with the Rs 60,000 crore National Scheme for ITI Upgradation, which will modernise 1,000 ITIs and establish five National Centres of Excellence. These are being designed to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving job market. A big part of this shift is also digital. The Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) has emerged as a powerful platform--over 1 crore users and 50 lakh course completions--offering skills in AI, drone technology, cloud computing, and more. The portal is now integrated with flagship schemes like PM Vishwakarma, JSS, and even Green Hydrogen training, bringing high-tech learning to the remotest parts of the country. SIDH is also driving trust and transparency in certification. New NCVET-certified digital credentials now include QR codes, NSQF levels, photographs, and secure signatories--making certificates easier to verify and more useful for employers. The onboarding of JSS institutions onto SIDH using mobile OTP and Aadhaar e-KYC has made registration simple and scalable. On the ground, the energy is visible at events like Kaushal Mahotsavs in Bijnor and Bharatpur. With 17,000+ registrations and 3,000+ placements on the spot, these events are not just about employment--they're about creating hope at scale. At a policy level, more doors are being opened. The Model Skill Loan Scheme was relaunched with a higher credit cap--Rs 7.5 lakh, up from Rs 1.5 lakh--and now includes NBFCs and non-NSQF courses, allowing more youth to access high-quality training, even from private institutes. Minister Jayant Chaudhary's commitment to industry alignment has also strengthened public-private partnerships. Under PMKVY 4.0, collaborations with Air India SATS, Flipkart, and Swiggy are enabling co-pay skilling with guaranteed placements. And to future-proof this ecosystem, 8,000 new trainers are being trained under ToT programmes with HAL, ICT Academy, and NAC. Institutional development continues apace. Two Indian Institutes of Skills (IIS)--in Mumbai and Ahmedabad--have begun operations, with the first batches graduated in October 2024. Another 200 ITIs are being upgraded as Centres of Excellence, with 800 more in a spoke-hub model. Pilot programmes like the AI Programming Assistant, now running in 19 NSTIs, offer a glimpse into tomorrow's skill landscape. India's skill development efforts are also gaining global recognition. Renewed MoUs with Germany and Singapore, and the Ministry's presence at the World Economic Forum in Davos, highlight India's increasing role in shaping the future of global workforce standards. One standout partnership is with Microsoft--the AI Careers for Women initiative will train 20,000 women in Tier II and Tier III towns, blending innovation with inclusion. Across all these achievements, a quiet but clear narrative emerges--this isn't just a year of activity; it marks the beginning of long-term transformation. Minister Jayant Chaudhary's inclusive and reform-driven leadership has focused on making skills more accessible, market-relevant, and future-ready. From policy reform to digital innovation, and from women-led progress to global collaboration, the Ministry's work is no longer just about training--it's about changing lives. And the journey, it seems, has only just begun. (ANI)
Time of India
01-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Governor advises youth to improve skills for better career opportunities
Mysuru: Karnataka governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot, on Saturday, advised the youth to improve their skills for better career opportunities. Speaking after inaugurating 'The Centre for Future Skills' at Karnataka State Open University (KSOU), he said, "Skill education is a fundamental requirement for India's overall development and self-reliance. The dream of 'Skilled India, Empowered India' will come true only when every youth is equipped with practical skills along with knowledge," he stated. He highlighted that in the current competitive environment, providing technical, social, and professional skills to the youth, contributes to the national strength. Additionally, skill education enables social and economic advancement for rural, backward, and underprivileged sections. The governor noted that 65% of India's population is under 35 years of age. Proper training of this demographic could strengthen India globally across economic, social, and technological domains. He defined skill as the ability to accomplish tasks effectively, developed through knowledge, experience, and practice. He emphasised that skill education serves as a pathway for social and economic advancement, particularly benefiting rural, backward, and underprivileged communities. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo "Schemes, policies, and institutions of the Indian govt prepare the youth for a better life and strengthen the country's economy. Today, India is moving towards becoming the 'Skill Capital' of the world because of all these efforts," he said. He outlined various govt initiatives including Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, National Skill Development Mission, National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme, Kaushal Bharat Mission, and National Skill Development Corporation, aimed at providing industry-relevant training. The governor highlighted NSDC's role in fostering skill development and employability. He noted the current technological era's advantage, mentioning sectors like AI, data science, cyber security, and digital marketing's contribution to economic growth. Sharing a personal anecdote from his pre-political career in Madhya Pradesh, he recalled working in a supervisory position where he handled various responsibilities, emphasising that undertaking diverse tasks enhances one's skills. Nirmalananda Natha seer of Shri Adichunchanagiri mutt was also present. Guv takes stairs for inaugural event Governor Gehlot took to staricase to launch the Centre for Future Skills at the KSOU here on Saturday after the lift malfunctioned due to overload. Sources said the inaugural event was organised at the Study Materials Preparation building. The lift in which the governor was travelling reached the second floor, instead of stopping at the first floor. Later, the governor walked to the stage. KSOU VC Sharanappa V Halse said the incident occurred due to the overload.
The Hindu
31-05-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
Equipping youth with practical skills essential for building self-reliant, capable India: Governor
Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot on Saturday inaugurated the Indian Institute of Future Skills at the Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) in Mysuru. In his inaugural address, Mr. Gehlot said that equipping youth with practical skills is essential for building a self-reliant and capable India. He said that skill-based education is a powerful catalyst for the social and economic empowerment of rural, underprivileged, and marginalised communities. 'Only when every youth is equipped with both knowledge and practical skills can the vision of a 'Skilled and Capable India' be realised,' he said. The Governor noted that various government initiatives—both at the Centre and in States—are helping India move towards becoming the 'Skill Capital of the World' and highlighted flagship schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, National Skill Development Mission, National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme, and the Skill India Mission. These schemes were instrumental in enhancing youth employability and meeting industry demands. 'India has a demographic advantage with around 65% of the population under the age of 35. By providing this youth population with proper training and guidance, India can achieve economic, social, and technological strength on the global stage,' he remarked. Mr. Gehlot stressed the growing importance of emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, and digital marketing, describing them as vital areas that are transforming economies and creating new avenues for employment and innovation. Praising the collaboration behind the launch of the new skill centre, the Governor lauded the joint efforts of KSOU, the National Skill Development Corporation, Skill India, and the Ethnotech Group in establishing the Indian Institute of Future Skills at KSOU. He also commended KSOU for its NAAC A+ accreditation. Sharing a personal anecdote, the Governor recalled his early days working at the Birla company in Madhya Pradesh, where he took on multiple roles despite being appointed as a supervisor. 'Doing every kind of job helps one build comprehensive skills,' he said. Nirmalanandanatha Swami of Sri Adichunchanagiri Math, Prakashanath Swami, managing director of SJB and BGS Group of Institutions and Hospitals, Sharanappa V. Halse, Vice-Chancellor of KSOU, Nagaraja N.M., managing director of Karnataka Skill Development Corporation, and other dignitaries were present.
India Today
28-05-2025
- Business
- India Today
Apprentices may get 30% higher stipend as central council proposes major hike
To support skill development and stop dropout among apprentices, the Central Apprenticeship Council (CAC) on Monday recommended increasing monthly stipends by 30% under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS).The proposal was made during the 38th CAC meeting, which was chaired by Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE). The proposal is to enhance the attractiveness and economically feasible nature of the apprenticeship programme among students, especially considering rising living approval, the stipend range will rise from the current Rs 5,000 - Rs9,000 to Rs 6,800 - Rs 12,300. This move will be a relief for technical as well as non-technical apprentices, providing greater economic support and motivation for completing their training. Worth mentioning, the stipend will also be revised based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), leading to automatic revision after each two years based on inflation and pay THE GLOBAL APPRENTICESHIP GAPThe minister noted that India's apprenticeship engagement percentage is a paltry 0.27%, far from 4% in developed nations. The hike in stipends is among the steps being taken to bridge this gap and promote industry PM-NAPS, over 43.47 lakh apprentices have been trained across 36 states and UTs with 20% participation by women. Likewise, the NATS scheme has onboarded 5.23 lakh graduate and diploma apprentices in 2024-25 CAC also thought of expanding Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programmes (AEDPs), where classroom learning is combined with formal on-the-job training, making students more job-ready compared to regular reforms include merging the vocational training through the Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS) with apprenticeship for improved academic and industrial transition for revision final approval is pending as of now.
Indian Express
27-05-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
Central Apprenticeship Council proposes 36% stipend hike for youth: what it means for students
The Central Apprenticeship Council (CAC), on Monday recommended a 36% increase in apprentice stipends under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS). Announced during the 38th CAC meeting chaired by Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), the proposal aims to bridge the gap between education and employment while lowering dropout rates and expanding industry participation. Once approved, the stipend would increase from the current Rs 5,000 – Rs 9,000 range to Rs 6,800 – Rs 12,300. This hike is aimed not only at reducing dropout rates, but also improving program attractiveness, and address the financial limitations that prevent many from continuing their apprenticeships. This upward revision would also be automatically adjusted every two years, based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), aligning with national salary cycles and ensuring that stipends remain relevant in the face of inflation, according to the statement released. 'The Central Apprenticeship Council's stipend increase is a welcome move and a strategic investment in India's human capital, directly addressing key challenges in apprenticeship uptake and retention. This enhanced financial support empowers more youth, particularly those from non-metro cities, to fully commit to rigorous training, reducing financial barriers that often lead to dropouts,' said Abhimanyu Saxena, Co-Founder of Scaler, an online upskilling platform for working tech professionals, focusing on software engineering. The government's proposal comes amid persistent concerns over dropout rates and poor apprenticeship penetration. With India's apprenticeship engagement at just 0.27% of the workforce, compared to 3-4% in developed nations, financial support is seen as a key lever for improving retention and encouraging participation. 'Despite notable progress, India's apprenticeship engagement remains significantly below global benchmarks. The stipend hike is a vital incentive to attract and retain talent in skilling programs,' noted Dr. Nipun Sharma, CEO of TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship, a public-private partnership program that blends academic study with work experience. According to the statement, dropout prevention was central to the CAC's agenda. By making apprenticeships financially viable, especially for students from rural and economically weaker backgrounds, the stipend revision is expected to encourage sustained participation across diverse sectors. Students in both technical and non-technical streams stand to gain. Under schemes like PM-NAPS, over 43.47 lakh apprentices have been engaged across 36 States and UTs, and female participation has touched 20%. The NATS scheme, targeting graduates and diploma holders, enrolled 5.23 lakh apprentices in the year 2024-25 alone. This stipend hike provides greater financial security to continue apprenticeships without interruption, improved job-readiness through exposure to real-world work environments and an overall increased higher appeal of vocational education, especially with rising cost-of-living in cities. 'Efficiency of production in India holds the key to how quickly we surpass global competitors. The skill level in many trades is still below global standards, and this increase is small but a welcome step,' said Dr VP Singh, Program Director at Great Lakes Institute of Management, Gurgaon. A major thrust of the CAC's discussion also focused on enhancing Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programmes (AEDPs). These integrate classroom learning with structured on-the-job training, offering a credible alternative to purely academic degrees. Reforms also include simultaneous notification of Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS) and apprenticeship programs, ensuring better curricular alignment and smoother transitions for vocational learners. 'Our vision is to ensure every young person, regardless of background, gets a fair shot at a meaningful career through hands-on learning and industry exposure,' emphasised Minister Jayant Chaudhary, according to the statement.
