The National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) is a flagship scheme launched by the Government of India to provide on-the-job training to fresh graduates and diploma holders in various industries. The scheme is implemented by the Board of Apprenticeship Training (BOAT) and aims to bridge the gap between industry requirements and the skills of fresh graduates.
Under the scheme, apprentices receive practical training in various trades and industries, such as engineering, technology, and other vocational fields, while earning a stipend. The apprenticeship training period ranges from six months to three years, depending on the industry and the nature of the job.
The scheme aims to promote apprenticeship as a viable career option for the country’s youth and to enhance their employability in the industry. The scheme also provides a platform for employers to train and groom young talent per their specific requirements, thereby reducing their recruitment and training costs. Let us read about NATs in detail, so stay tuned till the end.
Key Objectives Of The National Apprenticeship Training Scheme:
The National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) has several key objectives that aim to promote the country’s apprenticeship system and improve the skill sets and employability of the youth. Here are some of the objectives:
- Bridging the Skill Gap: One of the primary objectives of the NATS is to bridge the skill gap between the requirements of the industry and the skills of fresh graduates and diploma holders. The scheme aims to equip the apprentices with the necessary skills and knowledge to be productive in the industry and make them job-ready.
- Promoting Vocational Education: The scheme aims to promote vocational education and training as a viable career option among the country’s youth. It aims to inform them of the benefits of apprenticeship training and its employment and career growth opportunities.
- Enhancing Employability: The scheme aims to strengthen the employability of the youth by providing them with hands-on training in various trades and industries. The apprentices receive practical training and exposure to real-time work situations, which helps them acquire new skills and improve their existing skill sets.
- Reducing Unemployment: NATS aims to reduce unemployment by providing employment opportunities to the youth through apprenticeship training. The scheme aims to create a pool of skilled and employable youth who can contribute to the growth of the industry and the economy.
- Promoting Industry-Academia Collaboration: NATS promotes collaboration between the industry and academia, which benefits both parties. The industry gets access to a pool of skilled and trained apprentices, while the academic institutions get to understand the industry requirements and align their curriculum accordingly.
- Providing Financial Support: The scheme offers financial support to the apprentices in the form of a stipend. This helps them meet their basic needs and encourages them to continue the apprenticeship training.
- Improving Quality of Workforce: The scheme aims to improve the quality of the workforce by providing them with industry-relevant training. The apprentices are trained on the latest technologies and equipment used in the industry, which enhances their skill sets and makes them more productive.
Overall, the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme aims to provide a platform for the youth to acquire industry-relevant skills and enhance their employability. It is a step towards creating a skilled workforce that can contribute to the growth and development of the country.
Application Procedure For The National Apprenticeship Training Scheme:
The National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) application process is simple and can be completed online. Here are the steps involved in the application process:
- Registration: The first step is to register on the official website of the Board of Apprenticeship Training (BOAT) or the official NATS portal. To create an account, the applicant must fill in basic details such as name, email ID, mobile number, etc.
- Eligibility Criteria: The applicant needs to check the eligibility criteria for the apprenticeship training. The eligibility criteria vary based on the industry and the type of apprenticeship.
- Search and Apply for Apprenticeships: Once the applicant meets the eligibility criteria, he/she can search for apprenticeships on the NATS portal. The portal lists various apprenticeship opportunities available in different industries. The applicant can select the apprenticeship of his/her choice and apply for it by submitting the required documents.
- Document Verification: After applying, the respective authorities verify the documents. The applicant is shortlisted for the next round if the documents are in order.
- Interview and Selection: The shortlisted applicants are called for an interview by the employer. Based on the performance in the interview, the employer selects the candidate for the apprenticeship.
- Joining Formalities: Once the candidate is selected, he/she must complete the joining formalities, including signing the apprenticeship agreement and submitting the required documents.
The NATS portal also updates the application status and the apprenticeship training progress. The process is transparent and efficient, ensuring the applicants have a smooth experience.
Training Courses Offered In NATS:
The National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) offers training in various fields and industries. Some of the popular courses and training programs offered by NATS include:
- Engineering: The scheme offers apprenticeship training in various engineering fields such as mechanical, electrical, civil, electronics, etc.
- Information Technology: NATS offers apprenticeship training in the IT sector, which includes software development, web designing, networking, and other related fields.
- Healthcare: The scheme offers apprenticeship training in the healthcare sector, which includes nursing, medical lab technology, and other allied health fields.
- Hospitality and Tourism: NATS offers apprenticeship training in the hospitality and tourism sector, which includes hotel management, catering, travel and tourism, and other related fields.
- Banking and Finance: The scheme offers apprenticeship training in the banking and finance sector, which includes accounting, finance, and other related fields.
These are just a few examples of the courses and training programs offered by NATS. The scheme also provides training in various other fields, depending on the industry requirements and the availability of apprenticeship opportunities.
Impact Of NATS On The Young Generation:
The National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) significantly impacts the young generation by providing valuable skills and practical experience in various industries. It allows students and fresh graduates to gain hands-on experience and learn from experienced professionals.
The scheme enables young people to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, making them job-ready and improving their employability. The apprenticeship training also provides a platform for the youth to showcase their talents and skills, increasing their confidence and self-esteem.
NATS can transform the young generation’s lives by equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their careers and contribute to the country’s development.
Frequently Asked Questions:
A: NATS is a scheme initiated by the Indian government to provide vocational training to eligible candidates for various trades and industries.
A: Candidates who have completed their diploma or degree in engineering or technology from recognized institutions can apply for NATS.
A: NATS provides candidates with practical training and hands-on experience, improving their employability and job prospects. It also provides them a stipend during training and a certificate upon program completion.
NATS aims to enhance industry productivity and offer financial support by reimbursing 50% of the Government-prescribed minimum spend on apprentices. The apprenticeship training scheme guarantees a consistent supply of trainees to the establishments.
Summing Up:
Conclusively, the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) is a significant initiative to provide young people with practical skills and training in various industries. It offers an excellent opportunity for students and fresh graduates to gain hands-on experience and improve their employability.
NATS is crucial in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, making the youth job-ready. The scheme can transform the young generation’s lives by equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their careers and contribute to the country’s development.