Proposal to Increase Apprenticeship Stipend
Apprenticeship training in India is undergoing significant changes aimed at enhancing skill development through industry-led, on-the-job training. The Central Apprenticeship Council (CAC) recently convened for its 38th meeting, where it announced a substantial 36% increase in apprentice stipends. This adjustment will be linked to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for future revisions. The government is moving forward with amending the Apprenticeship Rules, 1992, to implement these changes across various sectors, including emerging fields like Information Technology and Renewable Energy.
Significant Increase in Apprentice Stipends
During the CAC meeting held on May 26, 2025, members discussed the pressing need to modernize the apprenticeship framework in India. The decision to raise apprentice stipends by 36% is a pivotal move aimed at making apprenticeship programs more attractive and financially viable for young individuals entering the workforce. This increase is not just a one-time adjustment; it will be periodically revised based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), ensuring that stipends keep pace with inflation and living costs. The revised stipend structure will apply to all apprentices under the Apprentices Act, 1961, thereby enhancing the financial support for those in traditional and emerging sectors alike.
Government Initiatives to Strengthen Training Infrastructure
The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship is actively working to bolster training infrastructure across the country. This initiative includes promoting artificial intelligence (AI) skill development through various organizations, including the Directorate General of Training (DGT) and the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC). The government has launched flagship programs such as the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0 (PMKVY 4.0) to facilitate skill enhancement. These programs aim to align vocational training with industry needs, ensuring that apprentices are well-equipped for the job market.
One notable achievement is the introduction of a self-learning micro-module titled ‘AI for Entrepreneurship’ on the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH). Since its launch in December 2024, this module has attracted 23,163 enrollments, with 11,089 participants successfully certified. SIDH serves as a mobile-first digital platform that integrates initiatives from both Skill India and Digital India, making skill development more accessible.
Training in AI-Related Job Roles
Under the PMKVY 4.0 initiative, a significant number of individuals have been trained in AI-related job roles. As of now, 34,709 individuals have completed training for positions such as Business Intelligence Analyst, Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, and DevOps Engineer. Additionally, the apprenticeship training framework allows establishments with four or more workers to provide on-the-job learning opportunities in AI-related fields. Between FY 2023–24 and FY 2025–26, 1,480 apprentices have been engaged in eight AI-related trades under NAPS-2, showcasing the growing emphasis on AI skills in the workforce.
To further enhance foundational training in AI, a new Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS) trade titled Artificial Intelligence Programming Assistant has been introduced. This program will commence in the 2024–25 academic session across 19 National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs), with an annual intake capacity of 504 students. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to equipping the workforce with essential skills in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Official Communication and Future Directions
The recent developments in apprenticeship training were communicated by Shri Jayant Chaudhary, the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, during a written reply in the Rajya Sabha. The government’s proactive approach in revising the stipend structure and enhancing training programs underscores its commitment to fostering a skilled workforce that meets the demands of a dynamic economy. As these initiatives unfold, they are expected to create more opportunities for young professionals and contribute to the overall growth of various sectors in India.
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