The government announced final-year students can now apply for the PM Internship Programme, expanding eligibility beyond graduates. The scheme offers 12-month paid internships at Rs 5,000 monthly stipend plus one-time assistance of Rs 6,000. Launched in October 2024, it targets one crore youth over five years across 500+ companies including top corporates and government organizations. Applications opened through dedicated portal with emphasis on skill development and employment readiness.

This policy shift represents a significant expansion of India's largest internship initiative, addressing youth unemployment and skill gaps earlier in the education cycle. By including final-year students, the government acknowledges the need for practical exposure before graduation, potentially improving employability outcomes. The programme operates through partnerships with major corporations like Reliance, TCS, and Mahindra, alongside government departments, creating a bridge between academia and industry. The Rs 60,000 total financial support per intern (stipend plus assistance) demonstrates substantial public investment in human capital development. This initiative aligns with India's demographic dividend strategy, aiming to convert the large youth population into a skilled workforce. The timing coincides with concerns about graduate unemployment and industry demands for job-ready candidates. The scale - targeting one crore beneficiaries - makes it among the world's largest internship programmes, potentially transforming how India approaches skill development and employment generation in the formal sector.