Dharmendra Pradhan launches NATS 2.0, disburses Rs 100 crore stipends via DBT

Union Minister for Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, has launched the National Apprenticeship and Training Scheme (NATS) 2.0 Portal in New Delhi. As part of this initiative, Rs 100 crore in stipends has been disbursed to young graduates and diploma holders through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). These apprentices are receiving on-the-job training across various sectors, including IT/ITes, manufacturing, and automobile industries.

The launch of the NATS 2.0 portal represents a significant step toward democratising apprenticeship opportunities, bridging skill gaps, and fulfilling the aspirations of youth, ultimately preparing them for future careers. The portal aims to facilitate a large number of beneficiaries to register and apply for apprenticeships while allowing establishments and industries to manage vacancies and contracts efficiently.

This initiative will support many young graduates and diploma holders in developing employability skills, accompanied by a guaranteed monthly stipend.

In his address,



Dharmendra Pradhan highlighted NATS Portal 2.0's role in widening the reach of apprenticeship opportunities and facilitating the matchmaking of candidates and employers. He emphasised the importance of building competencies in addition to attaining degrees and called for a focus on increasing employability skills within course curricula.

He noted that this year's budget prioritises training and employment, and the apprenticeship ecosystem should encompass diverse and emerging areas. Shri Pradhan urged all stakeholders to develop a comprehensive strategy to harness the country’s demographic dividend and appealed to educational institutions and industries to join the NATS 2.0 portal, aiming to make apprenticeship a widespread movement.

To ensure timely, efficient, and transparent delivery of stipendiary benefits, the Government of India has initiated the payment of its share of the stipend directly to apprentices’ bank accounts through the DBT mechanism in 2024. The goal is to extend the DBT system to all beneficiaries of the scheme.