Government internships offer students and young professionals a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience within public institutions while understanding how policy, administration, and governance function in real life. These programmes not only enhance practical skills but also strengthen career prospects in the public and allied sectors.
NHRC Internship Programme
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Internship Programme is ideal for students interested in law, human rights, constitutional values, and social justice. Offered in both offline (New Delhi) and online formats, the programme runs for two to four weeks.
Selected interns receive a stipend of ₹12,000 with travel allowance for summer and winter internships, while short online internships offer ₹2,000. Law students, social science students, and researchers get hands-on exposure to human rights research, case analysis, and policy discussions at a national level.
Apply here: https://nhrc.nic.in/training-programmes/internship-programmes
Rajya Sabha Internship Programme
For those curious about how India’s Upper House functions, the Rajya Sabha Internship Programme offers a rare opportunity. Organised by the Rajya Sabha Secretariat in New Delhi, this internship focuses on legislative research, parliamentary procedures, and policy analysis.
The programme offers a stipend of around ₹25,000 per month along with travel reimbursement. Open to Indian citizens with an interest in governance and law, this internship allows participants to work closely with parliamentary committees and research divisions making it a highly respected credential.
Apply here: https://sansad.in/
Lok Sabha Internship Programme
One of the most prestigious government internships in India, the Lok Sabha Internship Programme places interns directly inside the Parliament House Complex. Organised by the Lok Sabha Secretariat, this paid internship runs for up to one year with an annual intake.
Indian citizens aged 21–28 years can apply. Interns gain unmatched exposure to democratic law-making, parliamentary debates, committee work, and legislative drafting invaluable for those aiming for careers in civil services, law, media, or public policy.
Apply here: https://sansad.in/ls/pride/internship
NITI Aayog Internship
The NITI Aayog Internship is among the most popular policy internships in India. Offered by the Government of India’s premier think tank, the internship may be pursued offline in New Delhi or remotely, depending on the division.
Though unpaid, the programme allows undergraduate students, postgraduates, and research scholars from any discipline to work on live policy projects related to development, economy, health, technology, and governance. The duration ranges from six weeks to six months.
Apply here: https://niti.gov.in/internship
RBI Summer Internship
For students inclined towards economics, finance, or banking, the RBI Summer Internship Programme is one of the most rewarding options available. Conducted by the Reserve Bank of India, it is offered at RBI headquarters in Mumbai and select regional offices.
Interns receive a stipend of ₹20,000 per month, along with AC II Tier return travel fare. The internship lasts around three months and is open to students from economics, finance, law, management, statistics, and related fields. Interns gain first-hand exposure to India’s central banking and monetary policy framework.
Apply here: https://opportunities.rbi.org.in/scripts/summer.aspx
Prime Minister Internship Scheme (PMIS)
Launched by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, the Prime Minister Internship Scheme aims to provide young Indians with structured professional exposure across sectors. The location, stipend, and duration vary depending on the host organisation.
This paid internship is open to candidates meeting minimum educational qualifications and offers placements across India. It is particularly useful for students seeking real-world experience under a national flagship programme.
Apply here: https://pminternship.mca.gov.in/login/
NIC and Government IT Internships
Technology and engineering students can explore internships offered by the National Informatics Centre (NIC) and allied government ministries. These internships are available in New Delhi as well as NIC centres across the country.
The stipend and tenure vary by notification, but most programmes run for two to three months. Interns work on e-governance systems, digital public infrastructure, and major government IT projects.
Apply here: https://internship.mospi.gov.in/
Supreme Court and Judicial Internships
Judicial internships at the Supreme Court of India are highly sought after by law students. These internships are offered either through the Supreme Court Registry or directly under individual judges.
While most are unpaid, the learning value is immense. Interns assist with legal research, drafting, and gain direct courtroom exposure, making this experience invaluable for aspiring litigators and constitutional lawyers.
Apply here: https://main.sci.gov.in/
National Biodiversity Authority Internship
For students passionate about environment and sustainability, the National Biodiversity Authority Internship is a standout opportunity. Conducted under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the programme is based in Chennai.
It offers a stipend of ₹23,500 per month and runs for approximately 12 months. Graduates in environmental studies, life sciences, and public policy work on biodiversity conservation, regulatory frameworks, and national environmental initiatives.
More information: https://nbaindia.org/
MEA Internship Programme
The Ministry of External Affairs Internship Programme is ideal for students interested in diplomacy, international relations, and foreign policy. Based in New Delhi, the internship lasts one to three months.
It is a paid programme with a monthly stipend and one-time travel support. Selection requires security clearance. Interns assist with research, documentation, and policy briefs related to India’s global engagements.
Apply here: https://internship.mea.gov.in/
Government internships are not just about stipends or certificates, they are about exposure, credibility, and clarity. Whether you aim for civil services, higher education, law, media, or corporate roles, these internships help you understand governance from the inside.
For students and young professionals serious about building meaningful careers, even one government internship can become a turning point.