Daybreak Why only 1 in 10 interns join the PM Internship Scheme
Oct 13, 2025
The Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme promised 10 million internships but has seen fewer than 9,000 join. Deep-rooted issues like insufficient funding and mismatched expectations between companies and graduates contribute to the low uptake. The stipend of Rs. 5,000 is inadequate for city living, and strict eligibility criteria further limit access. Many candidates prefer better-paying local jobs over internships. Additionally, there's a skills mismatch and concerns about companies' abilities to train interns. Monitoring conversion rates to employment is now seen as vital.
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Ambitious Goal, Tiny Take-Up
- The PM Internship Scheme aimed for 10 million internships but managed fewer than 9,000 joiners in its first phase. The scheme attracted many applicants but saw a huge drop from offers to actual interns.
Stipend Structure Is Barebones
- All internships under PMIS are paid with a one-time Rs.6,000 grant and Rs.5,000 monthly stipend. The government pays Rs.4,500 and firms pay Rs.500 from CSR funds by default.
Eligibility Contradicts Practicality
- Rs.5,000 per month is inadequate for living in tier-1 cities and often requires family support. Yet eligibility caps household income at Rs.8 lakh, excluding those who could subsidize their living costs.