Overview of the PM Internship Scheme
The Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme 2024 aims to provide one crore internships in its first five years, fostering employability among youth. The pilot phase, concluded on November 15, 2024, witnessed 6.5 lakh applications for 1.27 lakh internship opportunities. While promising, experts highlight limitations that may hinder the program’s scalability and success.
Challenges in the Current Framework
The scheme faces issues like limited scalability, insufficient absorption of interns into the job market, and challenges related to migration without sustainable income. These barriers could significantly impact the ability to achieve the ambitious target of one crore internships.
The Potential of MSME Involvement
Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are an untapped avenue for scaling the scheme. Allowing MSMEs to host interns could:
Increase Internship Opportunities: MSMEs form the backbone of India’s economy, offering substantial opportunities for work experience.
Enhance Local Employment: By involving local MSMEs, interns can gain practical skills without needing to migrate, reducing financial stress and fostering community-level employment.
Support Skill Development: Interns at MSMEs can experience diverse roles, improving adaptability and employability.
Benefits for MSMEs
Expanding the scheme to MSMEs also benefits these enterprises by providing affordable talent, fostering innovation, and addressing workforce shortages. This mutually beneficial relationship can enhance both skill development and business growth.
