In a major push to skill India’s youth and bridge the industry-academia gap, the Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh has rolled out a game-changing apprenticeship promotion scheme. Targeting both micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and large industries, the initiative offers attractive reimbursement benefits to encourage hands-on training programs.
The scheme, announced recently, provides up to 100% reimbursement on stipends paid to apprentices, making it financially viable for businesses of all sizes to onboard trainees. This move aligns with the national apprenticeship promotion scheme but adds state-specific incentives to supercharge local employment.
Uttar Pradesh, home to over 60 lakh MSMEs, faces acute skilled labor shortages. By incentivizing apprenticeships, the government aims to create a robust talent pipeline. ‘Our youth have potential; we need to provide platforms,’ Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized during the launch.
Large industries stand to benefit too, with reimbursements covering a significant portion of training costs. The program mandates a minimum of 15% apprentice engagement in eligible establishments, ensuring widespread impact.
Early adopters report enthusiastic responses. A Noida-based electronics firm hired 50 apprentices last month, citing the reimbursement as a key enabler. ‘It’s a win-win; we get trained workers, and youth gain experience,’ said the HR head.
Experts hail the policy as transformative. ‘This could revolutionize UP’s industrial landscape, making it a skilling hub,’ noted labor economist Dr. Rina Agarwal.
With digital portals for seamless applications and monitoring, the scheme promises efficiency. As UP eyes a $1 trillion economy, empowering MSMEs through skilled manpower is strategic.
The government plans awareness campaigns across industrial clusters. This bold step underscores Yogi’s commitment to ‘Atmanirbhar Uttar Pradesh’ via youth empowerment and industrial growth.