The National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) is a flagship program of the Government of India administered by the Ministry of Education's Department of Higher Education. NATS aims to provide practical, on-the-job training to graduate and diploma holders in Indian industries, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry requirements. The scheme is managed through the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme portal (nats.education.gov.in).

The apprenticeship model under NATS combines classroom learning with hands-on industrial training, equipping young professionals with the skills demanded by modern industry. Apprentices receive structured training, a monthly stipend, and upon successful completion, receive a National Trade Certificate that enhances employability across India's industrial sectors.

Eligibility Criteria

The NATS scheme has specific eligibility requirements that applicants must meet:

Educational Qualifications:

Graduate Apprentices: Must hold a bachelor's degree (B.Tech, B.E, B.Sc, B.Com, BBA, or equivalent) from a recognised university or institution.
Diploma Apprentices: Must hold a diploma in engineering, technology, or a related field from a recognised polytechnic or technical institution.
Technical/Vocational Apprentices: Must have completed ITI (Industrial Training Institute) training in a relevant trade, or hold equivalent vocational qualifications.

Age Limits:

General category candidates: Maximum age 25 years at the time of application
OBC/SC/ST/PwD candidates: Maximum age 28–30 years (with applicable age relaxations)
Age is calculated as of the closing date of the application notification

Nationality: Only Indian citizens are eligible for NATS apprenticeships.

Minimum Marks: Most establishments require a minimum of 50–60% marks in the qualifying examination. Some prestigious establishments may have higher cutoffs.

The Registration Process

Step 1: Create Your NATS Account

Visit the official NATS portal at nats.education.gov.in and create a personal account. You will need:

A valid email address and mobile number
Aadhaar number or other government-issued ID
Educational qualification details
A scanned passport-sized photograph

Step 2: Complete Your Profile

After creating your account, complete your profile with personal details, educational qualifications, skills and competencies, trade preferences, and preferred locations for apprenticeship.

Step 3: Establish Registration (For Employers)

If you are an employer seeking to offer apprenticeship positions, you must register your establishment on the NATS portal. The establishment registration process involves submitting the establishment's registration certificate, providing information about available apprenticeship positions and trades, specifying the number of apprentices needed, and outlining the training infrastructure.

Step 4: Application and Matching

Once your profile is complete, browse available apprenticeship positions on the NATS portal. The portal uses a matching system that suggests positions based on your qualifications, skills, and preferences. Apply to positions that match your profile.

Available Trades and Sectors

NATS offers apprenticeship opportunities across a wide range of trades and sectors:

Engineering Trades: Mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, electronics and communication engineering, civil engineering, computer engineering, automobile engineering, instrumentation engineering, and chemical engineering.

Non-Engineering Trades: Information technology, computer applications, hotel management, retail management, finance and accounting, and office administration.

Industrial Sectors: Apprenticeships are available in manufacturing, IT/ITeS, pharmaceuticals, automotive, aerospace, power generation, oil and gas, telecommunications, banking and finance, and many other sectors.

Major Participating Companies

Major public and private sector companies that participate in the NATS scheme include:

| Sector | Companies / Organisations |

|--------|---------------------------|

| Public Sector (PSUs) | BHEL, ONGC, GAIL, NTPC, HAL, BEL, BDL, HAL, SAIL, BEML, EIL, KRIBHCO |

| IT / Technology | Infosys, Wipro, TCS, Tech Mahindra, Cognizant, HCL |

| Automotive | Tata Motors, Mahindra, Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Bosch |

| Pharmaceuticals | Dr. Reddy's, Cipla, Sun Pharma, Lupin |

| Power / Energy | NTPC, Power Grid, Tata Power, Adani Power |

| Manufacturing | L&T, Godrej, Siemens, ABB, Samsung |

Stipend and Benefits

Stipend: Apprentices receive a monthly stipend during the training period:

Graduate apprentices: INR 9,000–15,000 per month (varies by establishment and trade)
Diploma apprentices: INR 8,000–12,000 per month
ITI apprentices: INR 5,000–8,000 per month

The stipend is paid by the employing establishment, and in some cases, the government provides additional support.

Training Allowance: Some establishments provide additional allowances for transport, meals, or other training-related expenses.

Insurance: Apprentices are typically covered under the Employees' State Insurance (ESI) scheme or other appropriate insurance coverage during the apprenticeship period.

Certificate: Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship program, apprentices receive a National Trade Certificate issued by the National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT) or the relevant Sector Skill Council. This certificate is recognised across India and internationally.

Tips for Applicants

Complete Your Profile Thoroughly: A complete and accurate profile on the NATS portal increases your chances of being matched with suitable apprenticeship opportunities. Include all qualifications, skills, and achievements.

Apply Early: Many popular apprenticeship positions attract large numbers of applicants. Apply as soon as suitable positions are posted on the portal.

Prepare Your Documents: Keep scanned copies of your educational certificates, Aadhaar card, passport photograph, and any other required documents ready for quick upload.

Research Establishments: Before applying, research the establishment offering the apprenticeship. Consider the quality of training, the company's reputation, and whether the apprenticeship aligns with your career goals.

Follow Up: After applying, monitor the NATS portal regularly for updates on your application status. Respond promptly to any communication from establishments.

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India NATS Apprenticeship: Complete Guide to Registration and Establishment