Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has introduced a mobile application for the Prime Minister Internship Scheme, aiming to create 1.25 lakh internship opportunities in the financial year 2024-25. This initiative seeks to provide hands-on industry experience to youths, particularly from Tier II and III cities, while addressing the workforce shortage in various industries.
Bridging the Skill Gap
The scheme targets the growing disparity between industry expectations and the skill sets of young professionals. By facilitating internships in leading companies, it ensures that interns gain practical experience while enhancing their employability. Sitharaman emphasized the voluntary nature of the initiative, encouraging businesses to contribute to the national cause of empowering youth.
Incentives and Financial Support
Under the scheme, interns will receive financial assistance, including a monthly stipend of Rs 5,000 for 12 months and a one-time grant of Rs 6,000. This support aims to reduce the financial burden on students while motivating them to explore diverse sectors.
Encouraging Industry Participation
The Minister has appealed to more companies to join the program, highlighting the significance of corporate involvement. The Corporate Affairs Ministry has identified the top 500 companies based on their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) spending over the past three years. These companies are invited to offer internships and contribute to the initiative’s success.
Multi-Language Accessibility
To ensure greater reach and inclusivity, the PM Internship Scheme app and website will be available in multiple languages. This initiative facilitates seamless navigation and understanding, making the application process accessible to a wider audience.
Current Progress and Future Goals
Since its pilot launch on October 3, 2024, the scheme has garnered significant interest. In the first round, over 1.27 lakh internships were offered by companies. The second round began in January 2025, with 1.18 lakh internship opportunities posted across 327 companies. Applications for this round are open until March 31, 2025.
With a long-term vision of offering one crore internships over five years, the government remains committed to fostering skill development and career growth for India’s youth. The newly launched app serves as a crucial step in achieving these goals, providing a streamlined platform for both applicants and participating companies.
