The Karnataka government has formally requested the Centre to increase the apprenticeship intake limit for industries, citing the need to expand employment and skill development opportunities for youth.
The appeal was made during a recent event at Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s Bidadi plant, where state officials emphasized the importance of aligning apprenticeship policies with the evolving needs of industry and workforce development.
Current Cap Restricts Industry Participation in Karnataka
Under existing guidelines set by the Central Apprenticeship Council, industries are permitted to engage apprentices up to only 15% of their total workforce.
Karnataka’s Minister for Skill Development, Entrepreneurship and Medical Education, Sharan Prakash Patil, argued that this cap is limiting the potential of industries to contribute meaningfully to skilling initiatives.
Speaking at the Technical Intern Training Program (TITP) hosted by Toyota Kirloskar Motor, Sharan urged Sonal Mishra, Additional Secretary in the Department of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, to consider revising the quota.
He stated that increasing the ceiling would benefit both industries and aspiring youth. It would create more hands-on training opportunities and enhance employability.
Karnataka Industry Demand and Skilling Imperatives
Karnataka’s appeal comes at a time when industries across sectors are facing a shortage of skilled manpower.
The state, which houses major manufacturing hubs and technology parks, has seen growing demand for trained professionals in automotive, electronics, aerospace, and IT services.
By raising the apprenticeship quota, the government aims to enable companies to onboard more trainees.
This move will strengthen the talent pipeline and reduce the gap between academic learning and industrial requirements.
Sharan emphasized that industries are willing to invest in training but are constrained by regulatory limits.
Strategic Importance of Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are considered a vital component of India’s skilling ecosystem.
They offer practical exposure to students and job seekers, helping them transition smoothly into formal employment.
For industries, apprenticeships serve as a low-risk mechanism to evaluate and absorb talent.
Karnataka’s push for a higher quota aligns with national objectives under the Skill India Mission and the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS).
The state has been proactive in implementing skilling programs. It has also partnered with several private players to enhance vocational training infrastructure.
Centre’s Response and Policy Outlook
The Centre has not yet announced a formal revision to the apprenticeship quota. However, officials present at the event acknowledged the merit of Karnataka’s proposal.
The Department of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship is expected to review the request. It will also consult with other stakeholders before making a decision.
If approved, the revised quota could set a precedent for other states seeking to expand apprenticeship opportunities.
It would also signal a shift toward more flexible and industry-responsive skilling policies.
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