All India Rubber Industries Association (AIRIA) organized webinar on "National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS)" under their Knowledge Series: Rubber & Beyond on 30th September 2025, with speakers were Mr. Saif Mohammad, CEO Rubber, Chemical & Polymer Skill Development Council & Mr. Krishna Nand Jha, General Manager Rubber, Chemical & Polymer Skill Development Council.
Mr. Dharmesh Dhanani, Editor, Rubber India, introduced the session and speakers, including Saif Muhammad and Krishna Nandaza, who discussed the financial support and benefits of NAPS for industries.
The webinar discussed the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and its benefits for the rubber, chemical, and polymer industries. RCPSDC explained that NAPS provides financial incentives for companies that hire apprentices, while also offering training and skill development opportunities for students. They emphasized that companies need to be compliant with NAPS to avoid penalties and take advantage of the scheme's benefits, which include reduced hiring costs and potential CSR funding utilization. The presentation also covered the process of registering on the NAPS portal, the eligibility criteria for apprentices and employers, and the steps involved in enrolling and managing apprentices.
RCPSDC explained that the scheme is a fully evolved portal and system designed to facilitate national development and sustainable growth through apprenticeships. Participants asked questions about the scheme's eligibility criteria, including age requirements and whether recent employees could be converted to apprentices. RCPSDC clarified that while the minimum age is 14, the scheme applies to apprentices rather than employees. The discussion also touched on the need for greater awareness in traditional industries like rubber and the importance of counselling and career progression for apprentices.
The session concluded with a vote of thanks and a request to circulate the presentation slides to members for further awareness and implementation of the scheme.