India’s apprenticeship ecosystem is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by the rapid expansion of sunrise sectors that are reshaping the future of work.
According to the latest Apprenticeship Outlook Report (Q1 FY2024–25) by TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship, the Net Apprenticeship Outlook (NAO) has surged to 76%, marking an 8% increase from the previous quarter.
This unprecedented growth reflects a strategic pivot by industries toward skill-first hiring models, with apprenticeships emerging as a cornerstone of workforce development.
From drone technology to semiconductors, these high-growth sectors are not only creating new job roles but also investing in structured training programs to build talent from the ground up.
Drone Technology: Leading the Apprenticeship Charge
With a record 86% NAO, the drone industry is at the forefront of apprenticeship adoption.
Applications in agriculture, defence, logistics, and infrastructure are driving demand for roles such as:
- Drone pilots
- UAV technicians
- Systems analysts
Companies are leveraging apprenticeships to build a pipeline of certified professionals capable of operating and maintaining advanced aerial systems.
Healthcare: Building a Digital-Ready Workforce
The healthcare sector, including digital health, medical technology, and pharmaceutical R&D, is rapidly expanding its apprenticeship footprint.
With an 86% NAO, the industry is skilling talent for roles such as:
- Lab assistants
- Data quality analysts
- Diagnostic technicians
This training-to-employment pipeline is helping bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world clinical applications.
Electronics & Electricals: Powering Industrial Innovation
Driven by consumer tech, automation, and industrial electronics, this sector is tapping apprenticeships to train professionals in:
- Embedded systems
- PCB design
- Automation control
- Machinery servicing
The focus is on creating a workforce that can support India’s growing demand for smart manufacturing and industrial automation.
Electric Vehicles & Mobility: Accelerating Workforce Readiness Through Apprenticeship
India’s transition to electric mobility is creating a surge in demand for specialised talent. With a 75% NAO, apprenticeships are being used to skill workers in:
- Battery management
- Charging infrastructure
- Vehicle diagnostics
- EV design and maintenance
This approach is helping close the skill gap in a sector critical to India’s sustainability goals.
Solar Energy: Empowering Clean Energy Talent
As India races toward its clean energy targets, the solar sector is booming. Apprenticeships are enabling hands-on training in:
- Solar panel installation
- Energy audits
- Smart grid integration
- Maintenance roles
The sector is also seeing increased gender diversity, with more women entering technical roles.
Semiconductor Industry: Building Deep-Tech Capabilities
India’s push for electronics self-sufficiency has positioned the semiconductor sector as a major apprentice employer. Structured programs are training talent in:
- Chip design
- Fabrication
- Testing
- Quality control
This investment is aligned with national initiatives like Make in India and the PLI scheme, which aim to boost domestic manufacturing.
Emerging Apprenticeship Hubs
Cities such as Nagpur (91% NAO), Indore (81%), Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Pune are emerging as apprenticeship powerhouses, supported by business-friendly policies and infrastructure growth.
Apprenticeships as a Pathway to Employment
A key trend is the conversion of apprenticeships into full-time roles, with 75% of companies absorbing apprentices post-training.
Employers are prioritizing:
- Learning agility (79%)
- On-the-job training (66%)
- Industry-academia collaboration (51%)
- Structured mentorship (49%)
This signals a shift from legacy hiring models to inclusive, job-ready workforce strategies.
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