Official data cited by ET shows apprentice registrations under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) hit a record 3.06 million in FY’26, up from 2.05 million in FY’25—an increase of 49.3%. The rise is attributed to reforms introduced in 2025-26, including higher NAPS stipends and decriminalizing minor offences to make participation easier.
Women’s participation in apprenticeships is rising fast, with numbers climbing sharply from 2021-22 to 2023-24 as structured training programs broaden access across sectors. The progress is narrowing gender divides, but the report finds many organizations still employ few or no women apprentices. Continued targeted inclusion is urged to unlock India’s workforce potential fully.
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