Centre Plans PM Internship Scheme Revamp, Eyes SEZs and GCCs

The Central government is working on a fresh set of measures to expand the Prime Minister Internship Scheme (PMIS), with a focus on increasing participation from companies and creating more internship opportunities for young people.

Advertisement

As part of the plan, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs is considering pilot projects with Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Global Capability Centres (GCCs) and selected small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The proposals are aimed at strengthening the scheme after the first two phases saw lower participation than expected.

More Employers May Be Included

Officials are also exploring changes to the eligibility criteria for participating companies. One proposal under discussion is to allow state governments to nominate up to 20 companies registered in their states for the scheme.

Advertisement

Also Read: After 8,000 Layoffs, Meta CEO Admits AI Agents Fell Short of Expectations

The ministry is also considering the inclusion of professional institutions, statutory authorities and selected SMEs through industry bodies.

Another proposal would allow companies that are not covered under mandatory Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) requirements to participate, subject to certain conditions.

At present, CSR eligibility is one of the requirements for companies joining the programme.

If approved, these changes could significantly increase the number of employers offering internships across different industries.

Advertisement

Focus on Better Industry Participation

The government is looking at SEZs and GCCs because they employ a large workforce across sectors such as technology, engineering, finance, business services, and research.

Bringing these organisations into the scheme could help create more structured internship opportunities and improve industry participation.

The review follows feedback received after the initial rounds of the programme. Officials are examining ways to make the scheme easier for employers to join while giving more young candidates access to industry experience.

Also Read: Delhi Government Ends WFH, Restores Regular Office Timings

The government has already expanded the list of eligible sectors from 25 to 31. Newly added sectors include electronics, engineering and design services, logistics, supply chain, shipping, facilities management, business services, and workforce solutions.

Launched to improve employability among young people, the Prime Minister Internship Scheme offers paid internships with leading companies.

Selected interns receive a monthly financial assistance of ₹9,000, along with a one-time joining grant of ₹6,000. Participating organisations may also provide additional training and workplace exposure during the internship.

Advertisement

Note: We are also on WhatsApp, LinkedIn, and YouTube to get the latest news updates. Subscribe to our Channels. WhatsApp– Click Here, YouTube – Click Here, and LinkedIn– Click Here.