The Mukhyamantri Apprenticeship Yojana (MAY) was launched in 2018-19 by the Labour and Employment Department, Government of Gujarat to create a strong skill development ecosystem. This scheme promotes on-the-job and off-the-job training for youth, ensuring they gain industry-relevant skills. It is aligned with national initiatives like the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) and aims to engage 1 lakh youth in apprenticeship programs. Employers also receive additional incentives under this scheme beyond the existing benefits of NAPS and NATS.
Benefits
The scheme provides monthly stipends to apprentices based on their category:
| Category of Apprentices | Stipend (₹ per month) |
|---|---|
| Trade Apprentice (MSDE) | 1,500 |
| Optional Trade Apprentice (MSDE) | 3,000 (Graduate) / 2,000 (Diploma) / 1,500 (Others) |
| Technician (Vocational) Apprentice (MSDE) | 1,500 |
| Technician Apprentice (MOE) (Diploma in Engineering or Non-Engineering) | 2,000 |
| Graduate Apprentice (MOE) (Graduates in Engineering or Non-Engineering) | 3,000 |
Key Features:
- Apprentices receive monthly stipends as per their trade category.
- The duration of training ranges between 6-24 months for Optional Trade and 6-36 months for Designated Trade, depending on the employer’s discretion.
- Passed-out trainees from NCVT (DGT designated trades) and GCVT (DFT designated trades) are eligible for a rebate in apprenticeship duration.
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must be a resident of Gujarat.
- The applicant must be at least 14 years old (18 years for hazardous trades).
- The applicant must meet the minimum educational qualifications specific to the trade.
- The applicant must have completed at least Class 5.
- The applicant must satisfy the physical fitness standards required for the trade.
- The applicant must not have previously participated in any similar apprenticeship program.
Application Process
Online Application Steps
- Register on the official apprenticeship portal.
- Fill in personal, educational, and contact details in the application form.
- Upload required documents in the prescribed format.
- Choose the desired trade and employer from the available options on the portal.
- Submit the application for review and verification.
- Once approved, sign the apprenticeship contract online and begin training.
Documents Required
- Proof of Identity (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, etc.).
- Proof of Residence (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, etc.).
- Educational Certificates (Mark sheets or certificates as per trade requirement).
- Bank Account Details (For stipend disbursement).
- Recent Passport-Sized Photograph.
- Additional Documents (if required by the employer or department).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: What is the Mukhyamantri Apprenticeship Yojana?
It is a state-level apprenticeship scheme launched by the Gujarat government to provide industry-based training and employment opportunities for youth. - Q: Who is eligible for the scheme?
Residents of Gujarat who are at least 14 years old (18 years for hazardous trades) and meet the minimum educational qualification for the selected trade. - Q: Is there a stipend for apprentices?
Yes, apprentices receive a monthly stipend ranging from ₹1,500 to ₹3,000, depending on their trade category. - Q: Can freshers apply for the scheme?
Yes, freshers with no prior apprenticeship experience can apply. - Q: How long does the apprenticeship training last?
Training duration varies between 6-24 months for Optional Trade and 6-36 months for Designated Trade. - Q: What trades are covered under the scheme?
The scheme includes engineering, vocational, diploma, and non-engineering apprenticeship trades as per the guidelines of MSDE and MOE. - Q: What is the application process for the scheme?
Applicants must register online, submit required details, select a trade and employer, and complete the apprenticeship contract upon approval. - Q: Are there any age restrictions for applicants?
Yes, the minimum age is 14 years, and 18 years for hazardous trades. - Q: Can apprentices switch trades during training?
No, switching trades after enrollment is not allowed. - Q: Are there any fees to apply for the scheme?
No, there are no application fees. - Q: What happens after the apprenticeship training?
Apprentices receive skill certification and may be offered employment by the employer or gain eligibility for better job opportunities.