Education Minister launches NATS 2.0, announces Rs 100 crore in stipends for graduates

NEW DELHI: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS 2.0) today July 30 to provide practical training and financial support to graduates. Along with the portal launch, the minister also released Rs 100 crore for this scheme, with plans to distribute stipends directly through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) within the next 100 days.

“Glad to launch NATS 2.0 Portal and release ₹100 crore as stipend through DBT. This is a significant effort to democratise apprenticeship, bridge skills gap, fulfil youth aspirations and make them future-ready,” Dharmendra Pradhan posted on X. During the event, UGC chairman Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, NETF chairman Anil Sahasrabudhe, and AICTE Chairman TG Sitharam were also present.

The NATS 2.0 portal provides an improved user experience with quicker response times and added features. During the apprenticeship, apprentices receive a stipend, with 50% of the amount reimbursed to the employer by the Government of India. Upon completing the training period, apprentices receive a Certificate of Proficiency from the Government of India.

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NATS scheme engagement

As per the information shared during the event, the NATS scheme has engaged 8.68 lakh apprentices over the past five years, with 2.53 lakh apprentices participating in the 2023-24 year. For the 2024-25 year, more than 75,000 new apprentices are expected to be added. The event also highlighted the contributions of industry partners, including Cognizant Technology Solutions Pvt. Ltd., which engaged 41,576 apprentices over the past three years.

Addressing the launch event, Dharmendra Pradhan emphasised the government's commitment to creating a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of the evolving job market. “NATS 2.0 portal launched today will widen the reach of apprenticeship opportunities and help in matchmaking of candidates and employers. This technology-driven age is not only about attaining degrees but also building competencies. Our course curriculum should focus on increasing employability skills. This year’s budget also lays great emphasis on boosting skilling and employment,” he posted on his official X account.

At the launch event secretary of the higher education department, K Sansay, supported the DBT mechanism and noted that the scheme benefits both technical and non-technical students. He said, “We have included that part of the scheme since last year and we look forward to many of the companies offering training of apprentices in these segments of industry or business.”