“The Uttar Pradesh government has launched an ambitious apprenticeship plan to enhance youth employment, targeting 2 lakh placements by 2026. Offering stipends, industry-aligned training, and job opportunities, the initiative aims to bridge skill gaps and empower young job seekers. With real-time data highlighting rising youth unemployment, this scheme is a game-changer for UP’s economic growth.”
UP’s Bold Move to Empower Youth Through Apprenticeships
In a significant push to address youth unemployment, the Uttar Pradesh government unveiled a comprehensive apprenticeship plan in August 2025, aiming to provide skill-based training and job opportunities to 2 lakh young individuals by 2026. The initiative, aligned with the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS), focuses on equipping the state’s youth with industry-relevant skills to enhance employability and drive economic growth.
The program targets youth aged 16–24, particularly those from underserved communities, offering paid on-the-job training under the mentorship of industry experts. According to recent data from the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2024–25, Uttar Pradesh’s youth unemployment rate stands at 14.2%, higher than the national average of 10.2%. This scheme seeks to address this challenge by fostering partnerships between educational institutions, industries, and government bodies.
Under the plan, apprentices will receive stipends ranging from ₹6,000 to ₹9,000 per month, depending on the sector, with additional incentives for completing certifications. The state has identified high-demand sectors such as manufacturing, IT, healthcare, and hospitality for training. Over 1,500 companies, including major players like Tata, Reliance, and local MSMEs, have registered as partners, committing to absorb apprentices into full-time roles upon completion.
The initiative also integrates with the state’s skill development missions, offering courses aligned with National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF) standards. For instance, the UP Skill Development Mission (UPSDM) will provide technical instruction, while industries offer hands-on experience. The government has allocated ₹500 crore for the program, with plans to establish 50 new skill training centers across districts like Lucknow, Kanpur, and Varanasi by mid-2026.
Real-time data from the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship shows that apprenticeship programs have led to a 20% increase in employability for participants nationwide. In UP, the focus is on inclusivity, with 30% of slots reserved for women and marginalized groups. The state is also leveraging digital platforms like the NAPS portal to streamline registrations and track progress, ensuring transparency and efficiency.
Local stakeholders have welcomed the move. “This is a lifeline for our youth, especially in rural areas where job opportunities are scarce,” said Anil Kumar, a career counselor in Gorakhpur. However, challenges remain, including raising awareness among rural youth and ensuring small businesses adopt the program. The government has launched an outreach campaign, including workshops in high schools and colleges, to address these gaps.
The plan also draws inspiration from successful global models, such as Germany’s dual vocational training system, adapting it to UP’s socio-economic context. With India’s youth population projected to remain a demographic dividend until 2040, UP’s initiative could set a precedent for other states. As of September 2025, over 25,000 youth have enrolled, with training underway in 12 districts, signaling a promising start.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from government announcements, the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2024–25, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, and stakeholder interviews. Data and projections are subject to change based on official updates. Allindiapress.com does not endorse any specific program or guarantee outcomes. Readers are advised to verify details through official sources.