Speaking at the launch, Sitharaman emphasised that the internship scheme has the potential to bridge the gap between classroom learning and industry expectations. She said the scheme is designed to equip young individuals with real-world work experience, making them job-ready.

She urged India’s top 500 companies to actively participate, stating that their involvement is crucial for nation-building and creating a skilled workforce. Harsh Malhotra echoed her sentiments, emphasizing that the PMIS App would significantly enhance accessibility to internships, ensuring wider participation from youth across India.

The app features an intuitive interface, allowing for effortless navigation and easy registration through Aadhaar face authentication. Eligible candidates can explore internship opportunities based on location and sector, track their applications through personalised dashboards, and receive real-time alerts. A dedicated support team has been set up to assist users throughout the process.

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs has also introduced a referral programme that enables registered users to refer eligible candidates to the scheme and win rewards. The initiative is expected to expand the reach of the internship programme and encourage greater participation among young job seekers.

Alongside the app launch, a PMIS facilitation centre will be established in Kolkata — a joint initiative between the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). The CII, which operates 47 model career centres, will integrate PMIS cells to guide candidates through the application process.

PMIS Expansion and Benefits

PMIS, announced in the Union Budget for 2024-25, saw 28,141 candidates accept internship offers in its first round. The ongoing second round, launched in January, aims to provide over 100,000 internship opportunities across more than 300 companies, targeting 1.25 lakh internships for the 2024-25 fiscal.

Over the next five years, the initiative plans to engage the top 500 companies and ultimately provide internships to 10 million young professionals.

Interns receive a monthly stipend of ₹5,000, a one-time grant of ₹6,000 for incidental expenses, and insurance coverage under Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana.

To be eligible, an applicant must be between 21 and 24 years old, have completed Grades 10 and 12, hold an undergraduate degree, an ITI diploma, or other technical qualifications.

The latest initiatives underscore the government’s push for skill development, leveraging digital solutions and industry collaboration to improve access to real-world training.

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