The Government of India is working on raising the number of apprentices from 14 lakhs in 2022 to 50 lakhs in a few years. To attain these lofty goals, businesses and governments must collaborate. Companies are open to the idea of apprenticeship, and it is becoming a popular trend as a concept of internship. 

Defining NATS

NATS or National Apprenticeship Training Scheme, is popular among companies and the government. This scheme was launched by the Government of India in 2006 to give students a chance to train after college. In this technical training scheme, they learn new skills that help them grow in future. 

Objective of NATS

Not all college coursework is helpful, and it often does not prepare you for a job. The primary goal of the NATS training programs is to give skill training to assist people in finding work in the formal sector and vocational skill training for jobs in private organisations. The National Apprenticeship Training Scheme in India also has the following objectives:

•       To assist firms in developing skilled labour to face future problems provided by technological or regulatory developments.
•       To create long-term job prospects for marginalised populations by directing them towards office jobs, with a preference for women and those in traditional roles.
•       To develop jobs and self-employment opportunities for young people, thereby promoting entrepreneurship programs and raising earnings.

Key Features of NATS

NATS has several features apart from a one-of-a-kind and very innovative apprenticeship training scheme. Some of the main features are: 

•       By providing the training, companies get one year of time-frame to evaluate the candidate's performance before appointing them permanently. 
•       Through NATS, the government pays the companies 50% of the minimum payment that apprentices must receive for their services.
•       Companies can get an effective workforce in the firm by providing training.
•       By running a vocational training program, companies can address even future requirements for human resources. 
•       The government provides designated trades, while the private companies offer optional trades. Through this, apprentices get both designated and optional trades. 

Benefits of NATS 

NATS provides several benefits to the companies and the apprentices. Some of the benefits of NATS training are:

•       Employers can solve talent shortages by ensuring that none exist inside the organisation. 
•       Employers who receive NATS training are exempt from EPF and ESI contributions.
•       Skill development creates a proactive staff, which becomes an asset to the business. 
•       The cost of hiring decreases since apprentices taught through the programme begin contributing immediately. 
•       If the companies are not happy with the apprentice's work, they don’t need to appoint them. 
•       Apprenticeship programs have low retention rates, as apprentices remain loyal to the organisation. 
•       Helps project your brand as one that cares about the local community and wants to engage with them. 

Which Businesses Can Implement Skill Enhancement Program? 

Companies with a headcount of 4 to 29 can register under the NATS scheme, and those above 30 headcounts are mandatory to register under the NATS program. On the other hand, employers must fulfil basic eligibility requirements such as a valid mobile number and email ID.

Eligibility and Requirements for Employers  

Employers need to give an eligibility assessment before enrolment in the NATS. They must have a valid mobile number to receive the OTP. All the necessary enrollment information is sent to the email ID, so it’s mandatory to give a valid mail ID. 

Documents Required 

•       Here are some necessary documents employers must submit: 
•       Incorporation certificate
•       PAN/TAN
•       Last year’s IT returns
•       The conclusions of any internal committee investigation into sexual harassment.
•       Total number of people employed in on-the-job, contractual, and full-time positions, etc.
•       Annually, a training module is offered for apprentices.
•       Brief information about the establishment (<1MB size).
•       To receive an OTP, provide your mobile number.

Finding the Right Third-party NATS Training Agency

Once you want to enrol in NATS, you must locate the appropriate NATS training agency. It can be challenging to find the correct NATS training agency. This will take a significant time, and you may still not locate the appropriate one. Your apprenticeship training should preferably begin at Vision India Services Pvt. Ltd. Vision India can assist you with the NATS apprenticeship in four ways.

•       Submission of contract on behalf of the employer for the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme
•       Posting return details on behalf of the employer.
•       Submission of each apprentice's attendance details to the payroll.
•       Request repayment from the government for each apprentice.
•       Following all trade NATS apprentice procedures.

Conclusion 

When you consider an apprenticeship as an employer, it always seems like a wonderful idea, but if you don't have the resources or time to teach, you're left wondering what to do. With this, third-party NATS training provides benefits to your organisation. They will act as a liaison between your organisation and the government, working to get things done for you. Vision India might be the agency you need. If you are seeking a no-compromise, dependable, and timely answer to your NATS training dilemma, we at Vision India are here to assist!