Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman launches mobile app for PM Internship Scheme

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman launched a mobile app for the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme (PMIS) on Monday aiming to streamline the internship process and provide youth with easy access to opportunities under the scheme.  

The app offers several features, including an intuitive interface, effortless navigation, easy registration through Aadhaar face authentication, a personalised dashboard, and real-time alerts for updates. Eligible candidates can filter opportunities based on location and other criteria.  

PM Internship Scheme

The PMIS aims to provide one crore internship opportunities in India’s top 500 companies over five years, announced in the Union Budget 2024-25. The pilot phase, launched on October 3, 2024, is set to offer 1.25 lakh internships.  

The scheme offers 12-month paid internships to individuals aged 21 to 24 who are not currently enrolled in full-time academic programs or employment. Interns will receive Rs 5,000 every month along with a one-time financial assistance of Rs 6,000. Companies participating in the program will cover training costs and contribute 10 per cent of the internship expenses through their CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) funds.  

Government asked for industry participation

Speaking at the app launch, Finance Minister focusd on the government's commitment to empowering youth by providing them with opportunities in top companies.  

"The government is ensuring that our youth gain the confidence and skills needed to enter top 500 companies," she stated. She asked industries to support the initiative. "The demographic dividend should benefit industries, enhancing productivity and securing a better future for our youngsters," she said.  

She also focused on the importance of accessibility, noting that the Corporate Affairs Ministry has ensured the scheme’s website is available in multiple Indian languages. "Students from non-metropolitan cities should not be restricted by language barriers. The launch of this mobile app further enhances accessibility," she further added.  

The PM Internship Scheme aligns with the NDA government’s five-pronged approach to Viksit Bharat, announced in the July 2024 budget, which includes promoting manufacturing and services through internships. The initiative aims to bridge skill gaps and create employment opportunities for those who previously struggled due to a lack of training or experience.