Industry-Aligned Skill Development and Apprenticeship Promotion

The article details the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS), launched in 2016 and continuing as NAPS-2 since 2022-23, aimed at boosting apprenticeship training and engagement across India. It highlights various government initiatives by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) to strengthen industry collaboration for skill development, including the establishment of NCVET and Sector Skill Councils, DGT's Flexi MoU and Dual System of Training, PMKVY's focus on Industry 4.0 skills, and the integration of vocational education through NEP 2020 and AEDP. The scheme provides stipend support via DBT, encourages women's participation, and ensures apprentice safety and welfare under the Apprentices Act, 1961, which was amended in 2014 to introduce Optional Trades.