The PM Internship Scheme has dramatically underperformed, with only 10,000 internships completed out of 2.45 lakh offered over the last two years. This shortfall raises serious concerns about its implementation and impact.
Key statistics:
- The scheme aims to provide internship opportunities to one crore youth over five years.
- Only 10,000 internships were completed from the total offered.
- Only 1.5% of the allocated budget was utilized in FY 2024-25.
The PM Internship Scheme was introduced to address youth unemployment and enhance skills among young people. However, the low completion rate indicates significant challenges in execution. The Teachers Service Commission has also faced legal challenges regarding its internship program’s constitutionality.
Currently, over 44,000 teacher interns are deployed in public schools across the country. Despite these efforts, chronic staffing shortages remain an issue. The need for effective environmental governance and sustainable development is pressing as the nation grapples with these challenges.
John Brittas criticized the scheme’s performance, stating, “This is appalling. Prime Minister Modi owes the country a clear answer for this gross underutilisation of a wildly hyped scheme announced with much fanfare in the last Budget.” His remarks reflect widespread frustration among stakeholders regarding the lack of transparency and accountability in the program.
As the application deadline for an internship position within the United Nations Environment Programme approaches on May 6, 2026, many are looking for alternative opportunities that may better serve their career aspirations.
