The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has expanded its capacity-building efforts through short-term and long-term internship programmes for students and young professionals. These initiatives aim to strengthen biodiversity conservation, improve environmental awareness, and create a trained workforce for natural resources management. The programmes also support State Biodiversity Boards (SBBs) and Union Territory Biodiversity Councils (UTBCs) in their day-to-day functioning.
Short-Term Internship Programme
The NBA has launched a short-term internship programme of up to three months for students pursuing graduation or postgraduation. The programme offers hands-on, project-based learning through active participation in NBA activities. It is designed to build practical skills and improve employment opportunities in the biodiversity sector.
Biodiversity Samrakshan Internship Programme
The NBA also runs the Biodiversity Samrakshan Internship Programme (BSIP), a one-year internship that can be extended for up to two more years. In the current sixth cycle, 24 interns have been selected and placed in various SBBs and UTBCs. During the programme, interns take part in meetings, organise events, conduct field studies, and assist in regular administrative and conservation work.
Institutional Partnership and Objectives
The BSIP was शुरू? no, started in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the NBA, and the United Nations Development Programme. The programme was created to develop a cadre of trained young professionals through field-based engagement. Interns are selected through a competitive all-India process and deployed across States and Union Territories.
Funding and Long-Term Impact
The NBA currently invests about Rs. 1 crore in supporting these internships. The initiative aims to develop future biodiversity ambassadors and strengthen nation-building through youth participation in conservation. The first BSIP cycle was inaugurated on 22 May 2020, during the International Day for Biological Diversity.
Last Modified: April 29, 2026