PM Internship Scheme App

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the launch of a dedicated app for the Prime Minister Internship Scheme (PMIS). This initiative aims to enhance participation in the scheme by facilitating easier registration for candidates. The app is designed to address accessibility issues faced by potential applicants who may lack computer access. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to mobilise youth and provide them with valuable internship opportunities.

PM Internship Scheme

The PM Internship Scheme was introduced to provide internships to young people across India. The goal is to bridge the gap between education and employment. The scheme aims to offer 1.25 lakh internships in the financial year 2025. It targets 10 million internships over five years in collaboration with top companies.

Features of the PMIS App

The new PMIS app is user-friendly and accessible via mobile phones. It allows candidates to register easily for internships without needing a computer. The app is expected to increase the number of applicants . Its launch is timed with the second round of registrations, which runs until March 31, 2025.

Facilitation Centres and Support

Alongside the app, a facilitation centre has been launched in Kolkata. This centre is a collaboration between the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). The centre will assist candidates in the registration process and provide guidance. CII operates multiple model career centres that will house dedicated PMIS cells.

Outreach and Engagement

To enhance social outreach, the MCA plans to conduct over 70 Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) events across India. These events aim to raise awareness about the PMIS and encourage youth participation. Previous events have shown a positive response from interns, indicating the need for increased outreach.

Internship Structure

Internships provided through the PMIS will combine relevant training with professional experience. Each internship will last a minimum of six months. This structure is designed to ensure that candidates not only learn theoretical concepts but also apply their skills in real-world settings.

Registration Statistics

In the first round of the PMIS, 28,141 candidates accepted internship offers. The second round aims to attract more applicants. The MCA has set a target of providing internships to over 100,000 candidates in various companies.

Future Prospects

The PMIS app and facilitation centres are expected to boost participation in the scheme. By leveraging technology and partnerships, the government aims to create a more robust internship ecosystem for the youth of India.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the role of technology in enhancing youth employment opportunities in India.
2. What are the challenges faced by young graduates in securing internships in India? Suggest possible solutions.
3. Estimate the impact of corporate social responsibility on internship programmes in India.
4. Point out the significance of public-private partnerships in skill development initiatives in India.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the role of technology in enhancing youth employment opportunities in India.

1. Technology facilitates easier access to information about job and internship opportunities through apps and online platforms.
2. Mobile applications like the PMIS app lower barriers for registration, making it more inclusive for tech-savvy youth.
3. Online training and skill development resources enhance employability by providing relevant skills to candidates.
4. Data analytics can identify skill gaps and align educational programs with industry needs, improving job readiness.
5. Virtual networking platforms allow youth to connect with potential employers and mentors, expanding their professional networks.

2. What are the challenges faced by young graduates in securing internships in India? Suggest possible solutions.

1. Limited access to information about available internships can hinder applications; increasing outreach and awareness is crucial.
2. Many graduates lack practical skills; internships should include training components to bridge this gap.
3. Competition for internships is high; promoting diverse opportunities across sectors can help distribute available positions.
4. Geographical barriers can limit access; establishing more facilitation centres and remote internships can mitigate this.
5. Many candidates may not have the necessary professional networks; mentorship programs can assist in connecting graduates with industry professionals.

3. Estimate the impact of corporate social responsibility on internship programmes in India.

1. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives can lead to increased funding for internships, enhancing program quality and reach.
2. CSR can drive companies to engage in skill development, aligning internship offerings with community needs and corporate goals.
3. Collaboration between companies and educational institutions can create tailored internship programs that meet industry demands.
4. Internships supported by CSR can enhance the employability of youth, contributing to sustainable economic growth.
5. CSR-driven internships can promote diversity and inclusion by targeting underrepresented groups in the workforce.

4. Point out the significance of public-private partnerships in skill development initiatives in India.

1. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) leverage resources and expertise from both sectors to enhance skill development programs.
2. They can facilitate the creation of industry-relevant training curricula that align with market needs.
3. PPPs can improve infrastructure for skill development, providing better facilities and training environments.
4. Collaboration can lead to innovative solutions in training delivery, such as blended learning and on-the-job training opportunities.
5. These partnerships can encourage community engagement and social responsibility among businesses, enhancing their corporate image.