What is NAPS and how does it work for ITI graduates?

NAPS (National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme) was launched in 2016 by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship to promote apprenticeship training in India. Under NAPS, ITI certificate holders and 10th/12th pass candidates can register as apprentices at companies listed on the apprenticeshipindia.gov.in portal. Over 5.1 lakh apprentice positions are available across 30,000+ companies in manufacturing, services, and retail sectors. The government shares 50% of the prescribed stipend (up to Rs. 1,500 per month) with the employer. This incentivizes companies to hire more apprentices, creating employment opportunities for youth.

What is the stipend for NAPS apprentices and who pays it?

NAPS apprentices receive a mandatory minimum stipend as prescribed under the Apprentices Act 1961. For trade apprentices (ITI holders), the minimum stipend is typically Rs. 6,000–9,000 per month depending on the qualification level and trade. The government under NAPS reimburses 50% of the stipend up to Rs. 1,500 per month to the employer to encourage more apprentice hiring. Many large PSUs and reputed private companies pay stipends significantly higher than the minimum — ranging from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 25,000 per month. The stipend is tax-free as it is considered a training allowance rather than employment income.

How many apprentice positions are available under NAPS in India?

As of 2025–26, NAPS offers over 5.1 lakh (510,000) apprentice positions across various industries in India. The scheme has seen rapid growth with the government's push for skill development. PSUs like BHEL, NTPC, ONGC, Indian Oil, Railways, Defence PSUs, and banks collectively offer tens of thousands of positions. Large private companies like Tata, Mahindra, Reliance, Maruti Suzuki, and L&T also participate. The total number of apprentices engaged under all schemes (NAPS + Central Government schemes) exceeds 3 million. The government has set a target of engaging 50 lakh apprentices annually by 2026.

Does NAPS apprenticeship completion guarantee a job?

NAPS apprenticeship completion does not guarantee a permanent job but significantly improves employment prospects. Many companies who take apprentices under NAPS offer permanent positions to high-performing apprentices after the training period. The apprenticeship certificate (NCVT/SCVT or employer-issued) is recognized as proof of practical experience and is valued in job applications. For government jobs, apprenticeship experience counts as work experience and can give additional marks in selection processes. The National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC) obtained after NAPS completion is equivalent to trade certificate for job eligibility purposes.

How do I register for NAPS and find apprenticeship opportunities?

Registration for NAPS apprenticeship is done on the official portal apprenticeshipindia.gov.in. Candidates need to create a profile with their educational qualifications, trade/discipline, and location preference. After registration, the portal shows available apprenticeship vacancies from registered employers in the preferred location and trade. Candidates can apply directly to companies through the portal. District Employment Exchanges also facilitate NAPS registrations offline. ITI institutes often have tie-ups with local industries for NAPS apprenticeship placements. State Apprenticeship Advisers help resolve any issues during the registration or placement process.

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NAPS Apprenticeship Exam Preparation Guide

National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship

Your Complete Preparation Guide for NAPS Apprenticeship Exam 2027 — strategy, study plan, tips & more.

DifficultyEasy

Total Marks50

Duration60 min

Start Practising Now →Free Mock Tests

Exam Overview

Mode

Online / Offline Assessment by Employer

Frequency

Ongoing (companies recruit year-round under NAPS)

Next Exam Date

Rolling admissions

EEligibility Criteria

8th/10th pass for ITI trades; Class 12 for technician apprenticeship; registered as apprentice under Apprentices Act 1961

ANumber of Attempts

As per employer and trade; completion assessment at end of apprenticeship period

Study Plan by Subject

Trade Knowledge

Week 1-4: Foundation

Core concepts & basics

Week 5-8: Deep Practice

Advanced problems & revision

Week 9-12: Mock Tests + Revision

Full-length tests & weak-area focus

Refer to official syllabus for complete topic list

General Knowledge

Week 1-4: Foundation

Core concepts & basics

Week 5-8: Deep Practice

Advanced problems & revision

Week 9-12: Mock Tests + Revision

Full-length tests & weak-area focus

Refer to official syllabus for complete topic list

Aptitude

Week 1-4: Foundation

Core concepts & basics

Week 5-8: Deep Practice

Advanced problems & revision

Week 9-12: Mock Tests + Revision

Full-length tests & weak-area focus

Refer to official syllabus for complete topic list

Expert Preparation Tips

Study your specific ITI trade theory thoroughly — trade knowledge questions in the NAPS assessment are directly related to your enrolled trade.

General Knowledge preparation should cover current affairs, government schemes (especially skill development), and basic economics.

Aptitude questions test numerical ability, logical reasoning, and English comprehension — practice from standard aptitude books.

Review all workshop safety norms and first aid procedures as these are commonly tested in apprenticeship assessments.

Exam Pattern at a Glance

Section	Questions	Marks	Duration (est.)
Trade Knowledge	17	17	20 min
General Knowledge	17	17	20 min
Aptitude	17	17	20 min
Total	50	50	60 min

Important Dates

Registration Opens

Rolling registrations

Next Exam Date

Rolling admissions

Conducted By

National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship

Frequently Asked Questions

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