PM Internship Scheme Framework Updated; CA Firms Now Eligible to Engage Interns

The Pradhan Mantri Internship Scheme (PMIS) has been revised to facilitate broader participation from Chartered Accountant (CA) firms by removing a stipend-related condition that had previously restricted their involvement.

Under the earlier framework, organizations participating in PMIS were required to contribute a portion of the internship stipend through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds. This requirement posed a challenge for many CA firms, as most operate as partnership or proprietorship entities and are generally not subject to CSR expenditure obligations.

With the revised provisions, CA firms of various sizes, including small, medium, and large practices, are now eligible to engage interns under the scheme. The change is expected to increase internship opportunities within the professional services sector and strengthen practical skill development for young professionals.

The updated framework is aimed at expanding access to structured workplace training and industry exposure. Interns engaged through CA firms are expected to gain hands-on experience in areas such as accounting, taxation, audit, compliance, financial reporting, and advisory services.

The revision is also expected to support talent development across Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities by enabling a wider network of professional firms to participate in the internship ecosystem. Industry stakeholders view the move as a step toward increasing industry-academia engagement and enhancing employability through practical training opportunities.