The Employment Linked Internship (ELI) scheme introduced by the Government of India is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at bridging the skill gap and enhancing employability among Indian youth. With a target of providing one crore internships over the next five years in 500 top companies, this scheme is set to revolutionize the employment landscape in the country.
One of the key features of the ELI scheme is its focus on practical skill development and real-world experience. By offering eligible candidates a monthly stipend of Rs 5,000 and a one-time assistance of Rs 6,000, the scheme not only provides financial support but also ensures that interns receive valuable training and work experience. Companies involved in the scheme will bear the cost of training, contributing 10% of these costs as part of their corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Experts from the education industry have lauded the ELI scheme for its potential to tackle the pressing issue of unemployment in India. By immersing interns in real-world job environments and providing hands-on experience, the scheme aims to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their chosen careers. This practical approach sets the ELI scheme apart from traditional classroom-based learning and is expected to make interns job-ready.
The scheme targets youth aged 21-24 who are not employed or engaged in full-time education. While alumni of premier institutions like IITs, IIMs, and IISERs are excluded, a vast majority of freshly graduated students will benefit from the scheme. However, the exclusion of alumni from these institutions has raised concerns among students, who feel that the scheme could be more inclusive to provide opportunities to all deserving candidates regardless of their educational background.
Companies participating in the ELI scheme are required to ensure that interns are engaged in actual work related to the firm’s core activities. At least half of the internship time should be spent in real job environments rather than classroom settings. This hands-on approach is crucial for the interns to gain practical experience and develop professional skills that are in demand in the industry.
Invest4Edu, an education planning company, believes that the ELI scheme is a significant step towards addressing unemployment and improving industry standards in hiring. By developing professional skills among underprivileged youth, the scheme aims to create a trained workforce that can drive economic growth and stability. However, there are still questions that need to be addressed for the scheme to realize its full potential.
Overall, the Employment Linked Internship (ELI) scheme holds great promise in transforming the employment landscape for Indian youth. With its focus on practical skill development, real-world experience, and financial support for interns, the scheme is poised to make a significant impact in enhancing employability and bridging the skill gap in the country.