Apprenticeship Program under the Apprentices Act, 1961
Empowering Youth & Building Skilled Workforce for the Apparel Industry.
The Apprentices Act, 1961 was enacted to regulate and promote apprenticeship training in India by utilizing existing industry infrastructure to provide hands-on, on-the-job training. Under the Act, it is mandatory for establishments with a workforce of 30 or more employees (including contractual staff) to engage apprentices. Establishments with 4 to 29 employees may also participate in the scheme on a voluntary basis.
In alignment with this national mandate, the Apparel, Made-Ups & Home Furnishing Sector Skill Council (AMHSSC) plays a pivotal role in advancing the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) within the apparel and home-furnishing industry. By fostering industry participation and enabling practical skill development, AMHSSC supports the creation of a future-ready workforce while helping bridge the sector’s critical skill gaps.
Program Overview
The Apprenticeship Program is implemented by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE). It is administered through:
- Directorate General of Training (DGT) for Designated Trades.
- National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) for Optional Trades.
The program provides on-the-job training (OJT) within industry premises, enabling candidates to gain real-time exposure to the production environment, machines, and processes without requiring separate infrastructure.
For trade and course details, visit: www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in
AMHSSC’s Role in Implementing NAPS
The Apparel, Made-Ups & Home Furnishing Sector Skill Council (AMHSSC) plays a key role in driving the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) across the apparel industry. Its core responsibilities include:
- Industry Outreach: Promoting NAPS among apparel sector employers and mobilizing industry participation.
- Employer Support: Assisting establishments with registration, job role identification, and apprenticeship program setup.
- Trade Alignment: Mapping job roles under Optional Trades in line with NSQF standards and industry requirements.
- Monitoring & Compliance: Overseeing on-the-job training, collecting evidence of training, and ensuring adherence to guidelines.
- Assessment & Certification: Conducting theory assessments through third-party agencies and supporting certification.
- Claim Facilitation: Guiding employers in submitting accurate documentation for stipend reimbursement.
- Grievance Handling: Supporting resolution of operational issues and ensuring smooth program implementation.
Eligible Apprentice Categories
Employers can engage apprentices from a wide range of educational backgrounds, including:
- Class 5 to 12 pass-outs
- ITI pass-outs
- Diploma and Graduate holders
- Candidates from NSQF-aligned programs (e.g., PMKVY, DDU-GKY)
- Students pursuing diploma or graduation
For any query, please connect the following:
Mr. Himanshu Veer, [email protected], Mobile: 7835099992