Union Minister for Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan in New Delhi has recently launched the National Apprenticeship and Training Scheme 2.0 Portal. As part of this initiative, Rs 100 crore in stipends has been disbursed to young graduates and diploma holders through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). These apprentices are undergoing training in various sectors such as IT/ITes, manufacturing, automobile, etc.
The launch of the NATS 2.0 portal represents a significant step toward democratising apprenticeship opportunities, bridging skill gaps, and fulfilling the aspirations of youth, ultimately preparing them for future careers. The portal aims to facilitate a large number of beneficiaries’ registration and application for apprenticeships while allowing establishments and industries to manage vacancies and contracts efficiently. This initiative will support many young graduates and diploma holders in developing employability skills, accompanied by a guaranteed monthly stipend.
During the event, two panel discussions focused on the future of apprenticeships, including topics such as the Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programme, credits for all apprenticeships, industry and higher education collaboration, leveraging technology for DBT, and strengthening e-governance. Renowned dignitaries, academicians, and students attended these discussions. Top companies like Cognizant Technology Solutions Pvt Ltd., Infosys Ltd., and Tech Mahindra Pvt. Ltd. were also recognised for their contributions.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan said, “NATS Portal 2.0 is a significant effort to democratise apprenticeship, bridge skills gap, fulfil youth aspirations and make them future-ready. He said that the portal launched today will widen the reach of apprenticeship opportunities and help in matchmaking of candidates and employers.” He added, “This technology-driven age is not only about attaining degrees but also building competencies. Our course curriculum should focus on increasing employability skills.”
The Minister highlighted that this year’s budget also greatly emphasises boosting skilling and employment. Our apprenticeship ecosystem should cover diverse and emerging areas, he added. He called upon all stakeholders to chart a comprehensive strategy to harness the country’s demographic dividend.”
Pradhan also appealed to all educational institutions and industries to join the NATS 2.0 portal. We have to make apprenticeship a mass movement, he stated.
To ensure that the stipendiary benefits of NATS are delivered to intended apprentices in a time-bound, efficient, and transparent manner, the Government of India initiated the payment of its share of the stipend directly to the apprentices’ bank accounts through the Direct Benefits Transfer (DBT) mechanism in 2024.
Aligned with NEP 2020, which aims to mainstream vocational education and remove obstacles between different streams of education, the NATS 2.0 portal supports the integration of general and vocational education to ensure students’ vertical and horizontal mobility. UGC and AICTE issued draft guidelines for Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programmes (AEDP), demonstrating this integration effort.
