In today’s competitive job market, hands-on experience has become just as important as degrees and certifications. For college students and fresh graduates in India, apprenticeship schemes provide the perfect bridge between academic learning and practical exposure. The Government of India has launched several apprenticeship initiatives to equip young talent with real-world skills and improve their employability.
This article will serve as a complete guide to top government apprenticeship schemes in India, specifically tailored for students and job seekers who want to build skills, gain experience, and secure job opportunities.
What is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a structured program where students or fresh graduates get an opportunity to work in an organization, gain practical training, and earn a stipend. Unlike regular internships, apprenticeships are often regulated by law and backed by government bodies to ensure skill development and fair wages.
In India, apprenticeship programs are designed under the Apprentices Act, 1961 and supported by ministries such as the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).
Why Should Students and Job Seekers Opt for Apprenticeships?
- Real Industry Exposure – Work on real projects instead of theoretical assignments.
- Skill Development – Gain in-demand skills aligned with industry requirements.
- Stipend & Financial Support – Earn while you learn through government-backed stipends.
- Improved Employability – Apprenticeship experience is highly valued by recruiters.
- Job Placement Opportunities – Many companies absorb apprentices into full-time roles.
Top Government Apprenticeship Schemes in India
1. National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS)
- Launched by: Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD)
- Who can apply: Engineering graduates, diploma holders, and general stream graduates.
- Benefits:
- Provides practical training to graduates in leading organizations.
- Government shares 50% of the stipend cost with employers.
- Training duration: 6–12 months.
- Website: https://www.mhrdnats.gov.in
2. National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS)
- Launched by: Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE)
- Who can apply: ITI students, diploma holders, and graduates.
- Benefits:
- Promotes apprenticeship by sharing 25% of the stipend (up to ₹1500/month) with employers.
- Covers basic training cost for apprentices.
- Focus: Encourages MSMEs and industries to hire apprentices.
3. Apprenticeship Scheme under PSUs (Public Sector Undertakings)
- Organizations like: BHEL, ONGC, NTPC, Railways, and IOCL.
- Who can apply: Diploma and degree holders in engineering, ITI candidates.
- Benefits:
- Hands-on training with India’s top government organizations.
- Stipend and certification on successful completion.
- Increases chances of getting permanent PSU jobs.
4. Skill India Apprenticeship Program
- Launched under: Skill India Mission.
- Who can apply: Students, graduates, and job seekers.
- Benefits:
- Promotes skill-based learning.
- Collaboration with industries to provide structured training.
- Helps students align with National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF).
5. Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) Apprenticeship
- Launched by: MSDE and NSDC.
- Who can apply: School/college dropouts, graduates, and job seekers.
- Benefits:
- Short-term training with industry linkage.
- Certification recognized across industries.
- Provides financial incentives to both employers and trainees.
6. . DRDO Apprenticeship
- Offered by: Defence Research and Development Organisation
- Eligibility: ITI / Diploma / Graduate engineers.
- Duration: 6–12 months with stipend.
- Website: drdo.gov.in
7. ISRO Apprenticeship
- Offered by: Indian Space Research Organisation
- Eligibility: Diploma/Graduate in Engineering.
- Duration: 1 year.
- Website: isro.gov.in
8. Railways Act Apprenticeship
- Conducted by: Indian Railways
- Eligibility: ITI in relevant trade.
- Website: indianrailways.gov.in
9. Banking Apprenticeship Schemes
Website: sbi.co.in
Example: SBI Apprenticeship
Eligibility: Graduates.
Duration: Usually 1 year with stipend.
- Benefits:
- Prestigious training in government organizations.
- Stipend along with job-oriented training.
- Better chances to secure permanent government jobs.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Government Apprenticeship Schemes
- Register Online on official apprenticeship portals (NATS/NAPS).
- Complete Your Profile with educational details, skills, and resume.
- Search for Opportunities in industries or PSUs.
- Apply for Apprenticeship matching your field of study.
- Attend Interview/Selection Process (if required).
- Join and Start Training under the chosen scheme.
FAQs on Government Apprenticeship Schemes
Q1. Who is eligible for apprenticeships in India?
Most schemes are open to ITI, diploma, and graduate students. Some programs also allow school dropouts under Skill India.
Q2. Are apprenticeships paid?
Yes, apprentices receive a monthly stipend. The stipend amount varies by scheme and qualification level.
Q3. Do apprenticeships guarantee a job?
Not always. However, apprenticeships significantly increase job chances as many companies hire their apprentices full-time.
Q4. How long do apprenticeship programs last?
Generally, they last between 6 months to 24 months depending on the scheme and industry.
Q5. Can college students apply while studying?
Yes, but most schemes prefer final-year students or graduates for full-time apprenticeships.
Q6. Which sectors offer the best apprenticeships?
Sectors like IT, Manufacturing, Railways, PSUs, Defence, and Digital Marketing offer excellent apprenticeship opportunities.
Q7. How do I find government apprenticeship opportunities?
Register on official portals like NATS, NAPS, or company-specific PSU websites.
Government apprenticeship schemes in India are a golden opportunity for students and job seekers to gain experience, develop skills, and become job-ready. From engineering graduates to ITI holders and general degree students, these programs are designed to bridge the gap between academics and industry needs.
If you’re a student or recent graduate, start by registering on NATS or NAPS portals today. An apprenticeship could be the stepping stone to your dream job.
