New Delhi, 13th Oct. With a focus on equipping the youth with skills to succeed in today’s competitive economy, the Indian government has introduced the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme, launched on October 3, 2024. The initiative aims to create opportunities for one crore young individuals over the next five years through internships that offer exposure to a wide range of business sectors. The scheme is accessible through an online portal, designed to simplify the process of applying for and managing internships.
Ambitious Rollout and Initial Pilot
Announced in the Union Budget 2024-25, the scheme began with a pilot project targeting 1.25 lakh internships for the financial year 2024-25. This pilot phase focuses on 24 sectors, including oil and gas, energy, travel and hospitality, automotive, and banking and financial services. Partner companies were selected based on their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) expenditure over the past three years, ensuring that participants gain experience in socially responsible organizations.
A Stand-Alone Initiative for Real-World Exposure
The Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme sets itself apart from other skill development programs and apprenticeships by focusing exclusively on internships. It is independent of existing training initiatives implemented across India’s states and union territories, offering a customized experience to enhance participants’ employability. By providing young Indians with hands-on industry exposure, the scheme aims to build a skilled workforce ready to meet the challenges of the modern job market.
Overview of the Internship Scheme
Eligibility
The Pilot Project offers 12-month internships for youth aged 21 to 24 years who are Indian nationals, not engaged in full-time employment or education. Candidates enrolled in online or distance learning programs are eligible to apply, starting October 12, 2024, via the PM Internship Portal. Applicants should have completed High School, Higher Secondary School, or have a certificate from an ITI or diploma from a polytechnic institute. Graduates in fields such as BA, B.Sc, B.Com, BCA, BBA, B.Pharma, and similar degrees are also eligible.
Ineligibility
The scheme excludes:
- Graduates from IITs, IIMs, National Law Universities, IISER, NIDs, and IIITs.
- Holders of qualifications like CA, CMA, CS, MBBS, BDS, MBA, or any master’s degree.
- Individuals engaged in skill, apprenticeship, or student training programs under existing Central or State government schemes.
- Those who have completed apprenticeships under NATS or NAPS.
- Candidates with a family income exceeding ₹8 lakh for FY 2023-24.
- Family members of permanent or regular government employees.
Criteria for Partner Companies
The Ministry has identified 500 top companies based on their CSR expenditure over the past three years. Additional organizations can participate with approval from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), especially those in underrepresented sectors. Companies unable to provide direct internship opportunities can collaborate with others in their supply chain or within their corporate group.
Financial Support and Stipend
Interns will receive a monthly stipend of ₹5,000 throughout their internship:
- ₹500 will be contributed by partner companies, based on attendance and conduct.
- The remaining ₹4,500 will be transferred by the government via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the intern’s Aadhaar-seeded bank account.
- An additional one-time grant of ₹6,000 will be provided upon joining, also through DBT.
Insurance Coverage
Interns will be covered under Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, with premiums paid by the government. Partner companies may offer additional accidental insurance coverage.
PM Internship Portal: A Centralized Platform
The entire internship process is managed through a centralized online portal that allows companies to post internship opportunities with specific details such as location, role, and qualifications. Eligible candidates can register on the portal, create resumes, and apply for up to five internships based on preferences like location, sector, and role. The platform prioritizes diversity by promoting applications from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, and Persons with Disabilities. Shortlisted candidates are matched with companies based on mutual preferences, making the selection process streamlined and transparent.
Conclusion: Empowering the Next Generation
The Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme is a transformative initiative aimed at building a skilled and adaptable workforce in India. By providing financial support, comprehensive training, and industry exposure, the program seeks to enhance the employability of the nation’s youth. Through collaborations with leading companies, it offers a pathway to professional growth, positioning young Indians to thrive in the job market. With the launch of the dedicated portal, this scheme represents a significant step toward unlocking the potential of India’s next generation and contributing to the country’s overall economic and social development.
