The NITI Aayog Internship Scheme offers students an exceptional opportunity to gain firsthand experience in policy formulation and administrative functions of the Indian government. This initiative enables selected individuals to contribute to analytical tasks and research across various departments of NITI Aayog. If you’re looking to participate in a prestigious internship that exposes you to real-world policy-making, this guide outlines everything you need to know.

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Overview of the Internship Programme

The NITI Internship Scheme has been designed to involve students in developmental policy formulation and research. Interns work with specific verticals, divisions, and units within NITI Aayog, assisting in data collection, analysis, and report preparation. Though the internship is unpaid, it provides an enriching experience and a strong addition to any academic or professional resume.

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Who Can Apply? – Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this internship, candidates must meet specific academic and enrollment conditions. The programme is open to:

1. Undergraduate Students:

• Must have completed or appeared in their second year (4th semester) of a bachelor’s degree program.
• Should have scored at least 85% in 12th standard or equivalent.

2. Postgraduate Students:

• Should have completed or appeared in the first year/second semester of their master’s degree.
• Must have secured minimum 70% marks in graduation.

3. Recent Graduates:

• Candidates who have completed their undergraduate/postgraduate studies and are awaiting admission into higher studies may also apply.
• They must have scored 70% or more in cumulative marks throughout their academic program.
• The gap between result declaration and desired internship month should not exceed six months.

4. Research Scholars / Ph.D. Candidates:

• Enrolled students from recognized institutions in India or abroad are eligible.

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Duration of the Internship

• Minimum duration: 6 weeks
• Maximum duration: 6 months

Interns must complete the full duration to receive a certificate. Early withdrawals will disqualify them from certification.

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Domains and Fields Available

Interns can choose from a variety of interest areas, including:

• Agriculture
• Economics
• Data Management and Analysis
• Energy
• Education and Human Resource Development
• Foreign Trade and Commerce
• Governance
• Health, Women and Child Development
• Industry and Infrastructure
• Natural Resources and Environment
• Mass Communication
• Science and Technology
• Skill Development and Employment
• Urban Development & Smart Cities
• Water Resources
• Tourism and Culture
• Social Justice
• Public-Private Partnership
• Sports and Youth Affairs
• Public Finance and Budgeting
• Programme Monitoring and Evaluation
• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE)

Applicants must select their domain of interest while applying.

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Application Timeline – When and How to Apply

Monthly Application Window:

• The application portal is open from the 1st to the 10th of every month.
• Candidates can apply up to six months in advance, but no later than two months before the intended start date.

Example:

If you wish to begin your internship in August, you can apply anytime between February and June.

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Application Procedure – Step-by-Step Guide

1. Visit the Official Apply Page: https://workforindia.niti.gov.in/intern/InternshipEntry/PCInternshipEntry.aspx
2. Choose Your Domain: Select your area of interest carefully.
3. Fill the Online Registration Form: Provide personal details, academic qualifications, and upload required documents.
4. Submit the Application: Once submitted, applications will be considered only for the month you selected.
5. Await Shortlisting: If selected, you will be notified and asked to produce supporting documents such as:
   • Original mark sheets
   • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your college/university

Applications that don’t meet eligibility criteria are automatically rejected by the system.

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Selection Process

• All applications are forwarded to the relevant departments within NITI Aayog.
• Each department can accommodate up to 3 interns at a time (exceptions require special approval).
• The final decision rests with the Advisers of respective divisions.
• Selected candidates must submit an official NOC and original documents at the time of joining.

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Important Conditions to Note

Attendance Requirements:

• Minimum 75% attendance is mandatory.
• Interns must mark in/out time daily.
• Failure to meet this will result in no certificate issuance.

Certification:

• After successful completion, interns receive a Certificate of Internship signed by the concerned adviser.

Work Requirements:

• Interns are expected to submit a brief report or paper summarizing their experience and learnings.
• Departments may also conduct seminars or presentations during the internship.

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Logistics and Facilities

• Interns are expected to bring their own laptops.
• NITI Aayog provides workspace, internet, and essential facilities.
• No stipend or allowance is provided – the internship is completely unpaid.

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Documents Required

To apply and join the internship, keep the following ready:

• Recent passport-sized photo
• Academic transcripts
• Resume/CV
• Area of Interest (clearly stated)
• NOC from the institution (on letterhead, signed by HOD/Principal)
• Valid ID proof

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How to Get the NOC?

The NOC must mention:

• The student’s name, college ID, course, semester
• Confirmation that the college has no objection to the internship
• A declaration that the student won’t be attending regular classes during the internship period

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. Is the internship paid?
No, it is unpaid. However, it offers significant exposure and experience.

Q. Can final year students apply?
Yes, if they are awaiting admission and apply within six months of their result declaration.

Q. Can I apply multiple times in a year?
No, one application is allowed per financial year.

Q. What happens if I miss the monthly window?
You’ll need to wait for the next month’s window (1st to 10th).

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Contact Information for Technical Support

For submission-related issues, you can reach out to:
NIC Email: nic-niti[at]gov[dot]in