The Indian government has officially expanded its central government internship scheme for students, increasing the total number of internship seats to 50,000 starting July 2025. This significant update is accompanied by the launch of a new centralized application portal and an increased stipend to support students financially during their internship tenure.
This revised student scheme is part of the government’s larger strategy to provide career-building opportunities to undergraduate and postgraduate students while exposing them to the working of various ministries, departments, and public sector undertakings.
The move not only boosts employability but also supports the goal of a Digital India by ensuring an easy and transparent online selection process.
What’s New in the Internship Scheme 2025?
The expanded central government internship scheme includes a host of new benefits and structural changes designed to make internships more accessible, structured, and impactful.
Key updates:
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Internship Slots Increased: From 10,000 to 50,000 seats
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Monthly Stipend Update: Now ₹8,000 per month (earlier ₹5,000)
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Duration: 2 to 6 months based on department needs
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Eligibility: Open to 2nd and final-year UG students and all PG students
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Departments Involved: Ministry of Education, Health, Railways, MSME, and more
These changes make this govt opportunity one of the most sought-after internship programs for Indian students looking to gain practical experience in public administration and policy.
Eligibility and How to Apply
To ensure equal opportunity, the eligibility criteria for the student scheme remain broad and inclusive.
Eligibility:
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Must be an Indian citizen aged 18 or above
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Currently enrolled in a recognized UG/PG degree program
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Must have completed at least one year of study
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Minimum 60% marks or equivalent GPA in the last academic year
The application process is now simplified via the new internship portal, where students can register, upload documents, and track the status of their application.
| Step | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Portal Opens | July 10, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | August 5, 2025 |
| Internship Start Date | September 1, 2025 |
Documents needed include mark sheets, student ID proof, a letter of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
Departments Offering Internships
The central government internship scheme offers positions across more than 25 government departments. Students can select their preferred departments based on academic background and career goals.
Some top departments offering internships:
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Ministry of Education
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NITI Aayog
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Ministry of Environment
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Department of Commerce
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Ministry of Skill Development
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Central Board of Direct Taxes
This govt opportunity enables students to work on live projects, policy research, and administration while networking with senior officials and experts in their chosen fields.
Benefits and Long-Term Impact
Interns under the central government internship scheme not only receive financial support but also gain exposure to real-world challenges and policymaking processes. Completion certificates from respective departments will be issued, which are highly regarded for future job applications.
Key benefits:
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₹8,000 monthly stipend update
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Government-certified internship experience
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Valuable insight into public sector functioning
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Opportunity to contribute to national projects
These features make it an ideal stepping stone for students looking to work in public policy, civil services, governance, or non-profit organizations.
FAQs
What is the central government internship scheme?
It’s a government-run student scheme offering paid internship opportunities in ministries and departments to college students across India.
How many students can apply in 2025?
The scheme has expanded to 50,000 internship slots starting July 2025, available across multiple central government departments.
What is the updated stipend for 2025?
The stipend update offers ₹8,000 per month to selected interns for the duration of their internship.
Where can I apply for the internship?
You can apply through the new official internship portal, launching on July 10, 2025, for all eligible UG and PG students.
Will I get a certificate for completing the internship?
Yes. Interns who successfully complete the program will receive an official certificate from the respective department or ministry.
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