NATS 2.0 PORTAL

TAG: GS 2: GOVERNANCE

THE CONTEXT: Recently in New Delhi, Union Minister for Education launched the National Apprenticeship and Training Scheme (NATS) 2.0 Portal.

EXPLANATION:

• This program represents a major accomplishment in the Indian government’s continuous work to improve the employability of recent graduates and diploma holders.
• Through the utilization of technology, the government seeks to make apprenticeship opportunities more accessible, address the skills mismatch, and equip young people for the changing job landscape.

NATS 2.0 Portal

• The NATS 2.0 Portal is a comprehensive technology platform created to streamline the apprenticeship process nationwide in India.
• It acts as a unified resource for students, industries, and educational institutions.
• The platform is intended to oversee all aspects of apprenticeships, from student registration to vacancy postings, application handling, contract generation, certification, and stipend distribution utilizing the Direct Benefits Transfer (DBT) system.
• Developed in-house by the Ministry of Education with support from the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and the Boards of Apprenticeship Training (BoATs) and Boards of Practical Training (BoPT).
• The NATS 2.0 Portal has transitioned into full operation following a successful pilot phase.
• It is positioned to be a key player in bolstering the apprenticeship landscape in India, expanding access to opportunities and enabling smooth engagement between candidates and employers.

Disbursement of Stipends through DBT

• IT/ITeS, manufacturing, and automobile sector trainees were awarded with stipends amounting to ₹100. 00 crore by the Union Minister for Education during the launch event at the same time.
• The DBT mechanism of dispensing these allowances ensures that targeted beneficiaries can access them within an appropriate timeframe.
• DBT as an important component of governments approach improves administrative efficiency in apprenticeship and reduces delays in stipend payment system.

Enhancing Employability through Skilling and Apprenticeship

• The introduction of NATS 2.0 is in line with the government’s broader emphasis on skill development and employability, as highlighted in this year’s budget.
• There is a growing recognition of the significance of acquiring competencies in addition to academic degrees.
• This underlines the necessity for educational curricula to incorporate employability skills.
• In the era of technology-driven advancements, the focus is shifting from academic qualifications to the practical skills and hands-on experience that apprenticeships offer.
• The Minister also stressed the need to expand the apprenticeship ecosystem to encompass various and emerging fields, ensuring that India’s workforce is ready for what lies ahead.
• He urged all educational institutions and industries to actively engage with the NATS 2.0 Portal, promoting apprenticeships as a widespread movement throughout the country.

Panel Discussions on the Future of Apprenticeships

• The launch event included two panel discussions focusing on the future of apprenticeships in India.
• The topics addressed encompassed the Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Program (AEDP), the incorporation of apprenticeship credits, collaboration between industry and higher education, and the utilization of technology for Direct Benefits Transfer (DBT) and enhancing e-governance.
• These discussions saw the participation of esteemed dignitaries, educators, and students, illustrating a unified dedication to improving the apprenticeship framework in India.
• The event also recognized leading organizations such as Cognizant Technology Solutions Pvt Ltd., Infosys Ltd., and Tech Mahindra Pvt. Ltd., emphasizing the essential role of industry partners in promoting a robust apprenticeship environment.

Alignment with National Education Policy 2020

• The launch of NATS 2.0 is in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to mainstream vocational education and eliminate barriers between different streams of education.
• NEP 2020 emphasizes the integration of general and vocational education to ensure vertical and horizontal mobility for students.
• In support of this vision, draft guidelines have been issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and AICTE for Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programs (AEDP), which will further strengthen the link between education and employability.

SOURCE: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2039276