National Apprenticeship and Training Scheme (NATS) 2.0 Portal

On July 30, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) 2.0 Portal and announced Rs 100 crore in stipends for apprentices. This initiative, part of the government’s effort to enhance the skills and job prospects of young people in sectors like IT, manufacturing, and automobiles, allows for easier registration and application for apprenticeships and helps industries manage job openings and contracts. The portal aims to attract more users and ensure that apprentices receive a monthly stipend through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. Panel discussions highlighted the integration of degree programs with apprenticeships, industry-education collaboration, and technological improvements in the DBT system. Minister Pradhan emphasized the need for education to focus on employability, supported by the DBT system introduced in 2024. The NATS 2.0 Portal aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, promoting vocational education and new guidelines for Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programmes (AEDP) by UGC and AICTE.