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Apprenticeship implementation guide

Designated trades vs optional trades

Choose the correct legal route for the curriculum, duration and certification.

Law Hub L8Data reviewed on 17 July 2026India-first compliance
AreaDesignated tradeOptional trade
SourceNotified by Central GovernmentDetermined by employer, but cannot duplicate a designated trade
CurriculumNotified/approved systemEmployer discloses duration and syllabus on portal; applicable approval framework applies
DurationSchedule/curriculum basedGenerally six months to two years under Rule 7A, while NAPS-2 ordinarily operates 6/9/12-month options

Evidence to retain

Keep source calculations, approvals, portal acknowledgements, contracts, bank/DBT proof, training records and adviser correspondence for the full retention period applicable to your establishment and scheme.