In a significant move aimed at empowering students and promoting grassroots development, the Jharkhand government has launched the ‘Jharkhand Grassroots Innovation Internship Scheme’. This initiative opens up an exciting opportunity for over 17,000 college students to gain practical experience by working directly in rural areas—and earn ₹10,000 in the process.
Let’s dive into the details of this promising internship program and how it can benefit both students and communities.
The Hemant Soren-led government has rolled out this scheme with the twin goal of enriching students' education with hands-on experience while simultaneously contributing to the development of rural Jharkhand. Approved during a recent cabinet meeting chaired by the Chief Minister, the scheme offers college students a chance to step out of the classroom and into the heart of village life.
The program will be carried out across all 4,345 panchayats in Jharkhand, with groups of four students assigned to each panchayat. These students will spend eight weeks working on rural innovation, community engagement, and problem-solving.
Unlike traditional internships confined to urban offices, this eight-week summer internship places students directly in villages. The goal is to expose them to grassroots challenges, traditional knowledge systems, and rural governance mechanisms.
Inspired by Gujarat’s Grassroots Augmentation Network (GIAN) model, the scheme encourages students to observe, document, and even suggest innovative solutions to local problems—all while gaining valuable insights that complement their academic learning.
This internship isn’t just for students of government institutions. It is open to those studying in both public and private universities and affiliated colleges across the state.
To support students financially, the government has included a monetary reward of ₹10,000 per intern, which will be provided in two equal installments of ₹5,000 each. This incentive aims to encourage participation without putting a financial burden on students or their families.
By earning while learning, students can become more financially independent and understand the value of their work and time.
Enhance student engagement in real-world community issues
Promote innovation and problem-solving at the village level
Bridge the gap between classroom theory and on-ground realities
Identify traditional knowledge and local resources that can be developed or preserved
Encourage youth participation in the rural development process
By interacting with rural residents, identifying local challenges, and documenting indigenous practices, students will build a more grounded perspective on development and public policy.
Internship Period: 8 weeks (during summer vacation)
Structure: Credit-based program, potentially adding value to students’ academic scores
Location: 4,345 panchayats across Jharkhand
Number of Students: 17,380
Financial Aid: ₹10,000 per student in two installments
The program is expected to begin during the summer break of 2025, providing the perfect window for students to engage in this meaningful fieldwork without interrupting their academic calendar.
The Jharkhand Grassroots Innovation Internship Scheme 2025 is a forward-thinking initiative that aligns academic learning with real-world development. It reflects a growing recognition of the need for experiential education and youth involvement in governance.
By stepping into villages and working directly with local communities, students won’t just gain practical knowledge—they’ll also develop empathy, leadership skills, and a sense of civic responsibility.
At the same time, Jharkhand’s rural areas will benefit from the fresh energy, ideas, and enthusiasm of the state’s youth. This is more than just an internship—it’s a mission to empower both students and villages alike.
Stay tuned to official announcements for application details and prepare to be part of a truly impactful journey.
