NEW DELHI: In a move to enhance the involvement of both industries and young individuals in apprenticeship training across the country, Dharmendra Pradhan, the Union Minister for Education, Skill Development, and Entrepreneurship, has introduced the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) within the framework of the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS).

An allocation of approximately Rs.15 crore has been designated for this initiative, which aims to benefit around one lakh apprentices. This step marks the beginning of a new phase in skill development and training across India.

Since its establishment in 2016 until July 31, 2023, an astonishing 2.5 million young individuals have actively participated as apprentices through the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme. During the fiscal year 2023-24 alone, approximately 260,000 apprentices successfully completed their training.

The government's proactive efforts to encourage high-quality training across diverse sectors have yielded remarkable results. The number of active establishments providing apprenticeship opportunities has surged from 6,755 in 2018-19 to an impressive 40,655 in 2023-24.

Pradhan expressed his optimism regarding the pivotal role of this initiative in revitalizing the nation's apprenticeship ecosystem. He emphasized that the incorporation of DBT within NAPS seamlessly aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of making skill development through apprenticeships an aspirational pursuit.

"A skilled workforce holds utmost importance, and our comprehensive strategy, encompassing policy evolution, collaboration with industries, and increased recognition, stands testament to it. Aligned with India's core values of inclusivity and diversity, today's Chintan Shivir on Apprenticeship underscores a crucial mission. Together, we stride ahead to shape a future where the potential of every individual finds its truest manifestation," stated Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

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