Field Executive (Custom Clearance) Apprenticeship Course Syllabus

Course Title

Field Executive (Custom Clearance) Apprenticeship Course

Course Code

FEC101

Description

This course, under the Apprenticeship Training Scheme (ATS), provides comprehensive training for field executives specializing in customs clearance, focusing on coordinating clearance operations, managing documentation, and ensuring compliance with import/export regulations. Apprentices will gain hands-on experience in interacting with customs officials, handling cargo inspections, and facilitating smooth clearance processes, preparing them for roles in logistics, freight forwarding, and customs brokerage. The course aligns with the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and complies with the Apprentices Act, 1961.

Objectives

  • Coordinate customs clearance activities, including inspections and document verification.
  • Ensure compliance with Indian customs regulations and international trade standards.
  • Interact effectively with customs officials, freight forwarders, and clients to resolve queries.
  • Manage logistics and documentation for import/export shipments in the field.

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 field executives in customs clearance. Below is the detailed breakdown:

Week 1: Introduction to Customs Clearance Operations

Overview of customs clearance processes, field executive roles, workplace safety, and logistics fundamentals under ATS.

Week 2: Customs Documentation Overview

Understanding key documents like bills of lading, commercial invoices, shipping bills, and bills of entry, with practical exposure to manual and EDI processes.

Week 3: Indian Customs Regulations

Learning the Customs Act, 1962, Customs Tariff Act, 1975, duty calculations, and CBIC guidelines for compliance.

Week 4: Field Coordination and Inspections

Coordinating cargo inspections, interacting with customs officials, and managing clearance at ports, ICDs, or CFS.

Week 5: Communication and Query Resolution

Developing communication skills to address queries from customs departments, clients, and field staff, including role-playing scenarios.

Week 6: Logistics and Cargo Handling

Managing containerized cargo (FCL/LCL), transshipment, and coordination with freight forwarders and transporters.

Week 7: Compliance and Risk Management

Ensuring adherence to import/export restrictions, risk management systems, and handling provisional assessments.

Week 8: Final Project and Assessment

Completion of a comprehensive customs clearance field operations 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. Vikram Joshi

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 logistics 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 field coordination and compliance, critical for facilitating efficient customs clearance in India’s logistics and trade sectors, with practical exposure to tools like ICEGATE and ICES for EDI processes.