Prime Minister National Apprenticeship Mela (PMNAM) has started, from today, in over 200 locations of the country. The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) will hold the event as a part of the Prime Minister's Skill India Mission. It is said to boost career opportunities and practical training among youths. As of now, 188410 applications have participated in the Apprenticeship fairs, organised earlier, with 67,035 apprenticeship offers placed on the platform. The one-day event will feature 36 industries, over 1000 enterprises, and 500 different types of offers. MSDE will hold the event in over 200 sites, allowing applicants to shape their careers through apprenticeship training.
Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, expressed his thoughts on the Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Mela. He said that The PMNAM is expected to create additional job opportunities for talented individuals across the country. He also stated that while the major goal of these programmes is not only to attract more apprentices but is focussed to deliver the required training. From the growing number of apprenticeships and their successful implementation across the country, this has had a substantial impact.
Apprenticeship is the most sustainable approach for skill development, and it is receiving a significant boost under Skill India. Under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme, the first group of apprentices recently received stipend subsidies in their accounts via Direct Beneficiary Transfer (DBT) (NAPS).
Companies that participate in the PM National Apprenticeship Melas have the opportunity to meet potential apprentices on a single platform and choose applications on-the-spot. Additionally, small businesses with at least four employees can hire apprentices during the event. A credit bank concept, with depositaries of various credits gained by learners for future academic courses, will also be included soon.
Eligibility Criteria for PMNAM
To participate, candidates must have a 5th-12th grade pass certificate, a skill training certificate, an ITI Diploma, or a graduate degree. Furthermore, the young and aspiring workers would have the option of selecting among more than 500 trades such as welding, electrical work, housekeeping, beauticians, mechanic work, and more. Candidates will also receive National Council for Vocational Education and Course (NCVET)-recognized certifications, which will improve their employability following the training. The main goal of this programme is to encourage businesses to hire more apprentices while also assisting businesses in identifying and growing their potential through training and practical skillsets.
Every month, the apprenticeship mela will be hosted wherein selected individuals will receive a monthly stipend in accordance with government criteria for gaining new skills, giving them the opportunity to earn while they learn.