Pilot phase was designed to test the scheme before nationwide implementation, but low acceptance & high attrition have forced authorities to revisit key features, it is learnt.
According to government reply in Lok Sabha, the pilot phase of PMIS is being used to test concepts, strategies and systems before a full-scale implementation of the scheme.
In Round 1, PMIS saw only 280 companies offered 82,000 internships to students. Only 28,000 candidates accepted opportunities with the firms and ultimately, just 8,725 joined.
The scheme aims to skill youth in tier-2 and tier-3 cities for future employment. The government is yet to release data on how many have actually joined companies in round 2.
Despite a lot of initial interest, scheme plagued by hurdles since 1st round launch in October 2024. Corporate affairs ministry makes changes in round two to make scheme more viable.
Guidelines given for research internships, which are mandatory for graduation under NEP. Also required for students who want to exit with certificate or diploma after 1 or 2 years.
UGC’s new guidelines have asked colleges to dedicate at least one full semester to internships and evaluate students on the basis of their internship experience.
AICTE has told institutions to instruct students to abide by social distancing guidelines and not take up any internship that involves travel or contact with outsiders.
The programme, launched in 2017, is supposed to help develop skills among the youth. But govt officials say there’s a lack of interest for a variety of reasons.
Initial talks held on the possibility of India entering the programme that was started in 2017 between France, Germany and Spain to ensure European sovereignty in defence and security.
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