Context:
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will launch the Prime Minister Internship Scheme (PMIS) app, making it easier for young people to apply for internships under the scheme, according to official sources.
Key Announcements & Initiatives
- PMIS App Launch: The app, developed by Bhaskaracharya Institute for Space Applications and Geoinformatics (BISAG), will allow youth to easily register and apply for internships.
- Facilitation Centre in Kolkata: The first PMIS facilitation centre will be launched in Kolkata, set up by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) in partnership with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).
- CII Facilitation Desks: 47 Model Career Centres across India will also set up facilitation desks to provide guidance and support for applicants.
PMIS: Objectives & Implementation
- Announced in Budget 2024-25, the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme (PMIS) aims to provide internship opportunities to one crore youth in top 500 companies over the next five years.
- The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) launched the scheme as a Pilot Project on October 3, 2024, with a target of 1,25,000 internships for FY 2024-25.
Current Progress of PMIS Pilot Project
- First Round (2024-25): Over 1,27,000 internships were offered across various sectors.
- Second Round (January 9, 2025 – Ongoing): More than 1,18,000 internship opportunities have been posted by partner companies.
- Financial Allocation:
- ₹840 crore allocated for the pilot project.
- ₹48 crore spent so far.
Importance of the PMIS App
- Improves Accessibility: Many youth use mobile phones more than computers, making it easier to register and apply via an app.
- Centralized Platform: The internship portal, currently managed by BISAG, will be more user-friendly and streamlined.
- Enhanced Outreach: The MCA is actively working with state governments, central ministries, and industry bodies to promote and expand the scheme.
The Road Ahead
- Increased Participation: More companies will continue posting internships, and existing ones can update unfilled opportunities.
- Wider Reach: The app and facilitation centres will ensure that more students across India can benefit.
- Boost to Youth Employment: The scheme aligns with India’s broader goal of enhancing skill development and employment opportunities.
Bottom Line
The PMIS app launch and the first facilitation centre in Kolkata mark significant steps toward making the internship scheme more accessible and impactful. With over one lakh internship opportunities already available, the scheme is on track to benefit millions of youth across India in the coming years.
