The scheme aims to bridge the skill gap and prepare youth from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities for employment by equipping them with industry-relevant skills. The finance minister emphasized that this initiative is a crucial step toward boosting job opportunities and workforce readiness.
For the financial year 2024-25, the government has set a target of 1.25 lakh internships under the PM Internship Scheme. The pilot phase began on October 3, 2024, and so far, over 327 companies have participated, offering more than 1.18 lakh internship opportunities.
Participation in this scheme is voluntary for companies, but Sitharaman encouraged the Indian corporate sector to embrace it in national interest and help students gain real-world experience.
The PM Internship Scheme is a game-changer for both students and industries. It provides students with hands-on experience, while companies gain access to a skilled and trained workforce.
Implemented by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, the initiative has already onboarded top-500 companies, with more expected to join soon. A structured assessment framework has also been introduced to ensure the effectiveness of the program.
With its focus on skill development, industry exposure, and career enhancement, the PM Internship Scheme is set to empower India's youth and create a stronger, job-ready workforce.