AICTE Launches Samarthan Internship Scheme for Students from Remote Regions

The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has invited applications for the Samarthan: Internship Connect Scheme 2026-27, an initiative designed to provide better internship opportunities to students from geographically remote and underserved areas of the country.

AICTE Chairman Yogesh Singh launched the scheme in the presence of Member Secretary Shyama Rath. Through this initiative, eligible students will have the opportunity to undertake internships at premier institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), and National Institutes of Technology (NITs).

The programme aims to bridge the gap between students from less-connected regions and leading academic and professional institutions. It seeks to ensure that deserving students gain exposure to research environments, industry-oriented projects, mentorship, and professional networking opportunities often limited in remote areas.

The initiative comes at a time when internships play an increasingly important role in enhancing employability and workplace readiness among students. Companies today prefer candidates who possess practical experience, problem-solving abilities, and industry exposure in addition to academic qualifications.

Under the Samarthan scheme, AICTE intends to create a structured platform where students can strengthen their skills and understand the practical application of classroom learning. The programme is expected to support career development while helping students become more confident and professionally prepared.

For students from underserved backgrounds, such exposure can prove highly beneficial. Internships at reputed institutions can improve communication skills, broaden career awareness, and provide opportunities to interact with experienced faculty members, researchers, and industry professionals.

The scheme also highlights the growing emphasis on inclusivity in higher education policies. Along with improving enrolment, educational bodies are now focusing on ensuring equal access to mentorship, internships, and career opportunities for students from diverse social and geographical backgrounds.

AICTE believes that if implemented effectively, the Samarthan Internship Connect Scheme can contribute significantly toward building a more inclusive and accessible ecosystem for technical education students across India.