Calcutta University colleges withdraw from PM internship scheme

Several colleges under Calcutta University (CU) have decided not to take part in the Prime Minister's Internship Scheme (PMIS). CU sent a notice about the scheme to its affiliated colleges on March 4. However, many colleges were surprised by the selection of specific institutions as nodal points without any prior discussion. CU explained that this selection aimed to help colleges implement the mandatory internship programs for four-year degree courses more effectively. The PMIS, announced in the 2024-25 budget, intends to provide internship opportunities to one crore youth in the top 500 companies over five years. The notice from CU was sent after the central government issued a circular regarding the scheme. Many college principals expressed their frustration with how the nodal colleges were chosen. They believed the list was prepared without their input. In Kolkata, six colleges were selected, including Bangabasi and Basanti Devi. In Howrah, two colleges were chosen, along with one college in Hooghly and four in South 24 Parganas. Principals raised concerns about the selection process. Uluberia College principal Debasish Pal stated he was unsure of the basis for his college's selection. New Alipore College principal Jaydeep Sarangi mentioned that he needed permission from the governing body for new initiatives. Others like Himadri Bhattacharyya Chakrabarty from Bangabasi College stated they were waiting for a meeting with the university for more clarity. CU’s interim Vice-Chancellor, Santa Datta De, noted that participation in the project is not mandatory. He emphasized that the intention behind the initiative was to assist colleges in managing internships without needing to seek out industries for support. He added that the focus should remain on the students’ best interests.