Debt Recovery Agent Apprenticeship Course Syllabus
Course Title
Debt Recovery Agent Apprenticeship Course
Course Code
DRA101
Description
This course, under the Apprenticeship Training Scheme (ATS), provides comprehensive training for debt recovery agents, focusing on effective communication, negotiation, debt collection techniques, and compliance with banking and legal regulations. Apprentices will gain hands-on experience in managing overdue accounts, resolving disputes, and maintaining client relationships, preparing them for roles in banking, financial services, and collection agencies. The course aligns with the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and complies with the Apprentices Act, 1961.
Objectives
- Engage with clients professionally to recover overdue payments through effective communication and negotiation.
- Understand and apply debt recovery processes, including follow-ups and payment plans.
- Ensure compliance with Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines and legal frameworks for debt collection.
- Maintain accurate records of recovery activities using CRM and financial software.
Schedule
The course spans 8 weeks, combining basic training and on-the-job practical training as per ATS guidelines. Each week focuses on specific skills essential for debt recovery agents. Below is the detailed breakdown:
Week 1: Introduction to Debt Recovery
Overview of debt recovery roles, workplace ethics, customer confidentiality, and introduction to financial services under ATS.
Week 2: Communication and Negotiation Skills
Developing effective communication, active listening, and negotiation techniques for debt recovery discussions.
Week 3: Debt Recovery Processes
Learning processes for identifying overdue accounts, initiating contact, and setting up repayment plans.
Week 4: Legal and Regulatory Compliance
Understanding RBI guidelines, the Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT), and ethical practices in debt collection.
Week 5: CRM and Record Keeping
Using CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, Zoho) and spreadsheets to track recovery activities and client interactions.
Week 6: Handling Disputes and Escalations
Resolving client disputes, managing escalations, and maintaining professionalism under pressure.
Week 7: Performance Metrics and Reporting
Monitoring recovery performance, preparing reports, and ensuring compliance with organizational targets.
Week 8: Final Project and Assessment
Completion of a comprehensive debt recovery project and preparation for the All India Trade Test (AITT) under NCVT.
Assessment Methods
Apprentice performance is evaluated through a combination of practical, theoretical, and participatory components, preparing them for the National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC):
- Weekly Assignments: 40%
- Midterm Project: 20%
- Final Project: 30%
- Participation and Attendance: 10%
Instructor
Prof. Vinod Sharma
Language
Available in: English
Status
Published
Additional Notes
Apprentices must be at least 14 years old and meet the minimum educational qualification (typically 12th grade passed or equivalent, preferably with a commerce or finance background, as per trade requirements). The course includes basic training (20-25% of the program) and on-the-job training, with a stipend provided as per NAPS guidelines (e.g., Rs. 7700 per month for one-year ITI trade passed apprentices, as per Gazette notification dated 25th September 2019). Successful completion leads to the National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC) upon passing the All India Trade Test (AITT), recognized for employment in government and private sectors. The training emphasizes ethical debt recovery practices and compliance with RBI guidelines, critical for roles in financial services and collection agencies.