Earlier, the opportunity was limited to a smaller group, but now final-year students are also eligible to apply. The main objective of this decision is to improve the employability of youth and prepare them better for the industry.
To make the scheme more attractive, the government has increased the monthly financial assistance for interns from ₹5,000 to ₹9,000. Additionally, the age limit has been extended to 18-25 years. This change will allow more young people to gain practical experience alongside their studies.
New Opportunities for Final-Year Students
According to the government, under this new arrangement, final-year students will be able to apply for paid internships in companies across various sectors. This will help them gain work experience during their studies, which will be highly beneficial for their careers.
Applicants will be required to submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their college or university. This certificate will ensure that the internship does not interfere with their academic requirements. The NOC can be issued by authorized officials such as the Head of Department, Dean, Principal or Training and Placement Officer.
Aligned with the New Education Policy
The ministry stated that this step aligns with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP 2020), which emphasizes experiential learning and industry exposure. Through this scheme, students will gain real workplace experience, develop skills and understand professional environments.
In the pilot phase of the scheme, more than 300 companies have already participated, offering internship opportunities across multiple sectors. This gives students a chance to explore different fields and choose their career paths accordingly.
The scheme is open to Indian citizens aged 18 to 25 years and applications can be submitted online through the official portal. The government aims to help youth develop skills alongside their education and become job-ready.
Focus on Employment and Skill Development
Overall, this initiative is an important step toward providing practical knowledge, strengthening skills and creating better employment opportunities for youth. It will enable students to build a strong start to their careers while continuing their studies.
In addition, this scheme will help prepare young people according to the real needs of the industry. During the internship, students will not only learn technical skills but also develop essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork, time management and problem-solving. This will make them more confident and job-ready.
Thus, the scheme can play a key role in reducing the skill gap in the country, enhancing the employability of youth and building a strong and skilled workforce, which will also contribute to India’s economic growth.