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UGC Internship Mandate Sparks Debate in India

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  Published in Politics and Government on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 2:08 GMT by Deccan Herald
      Locales: Delhi, Karnataka, INDIA

New Delhi, January 31st, 2026 - A recent mandate from the University Grants Commission (UGC) requiring students to complete a minimum of 40 hours of monthly internship or practical training has ignited a nationwide debate, pitting the government's aims of workforce preparedness against concerns of equity and practicality. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has stepped forward to defend the government's position, assuring stakeholders that it's committed to "justice for all" and is actively considering revisions to the controversial policy.

The core of the dispute lies in the perceived rigidity of the 40-hour requirement. While the UGC maintains the rule is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application, critics argue that it fails to account for the diverse socio-economic backgrounds of Indian students. Many fear the mandate disproportionately disadvantages those from underprivileged communities who may lack the financial means or network to secure consistent, unpaid internships.

BJP spokesperson Rajat Sharma addressed reporters earlier today, stating, "The government recognizes the legitimate concerns raised by students, educators, and parents. We are in constant dialogue with the UGC and are dedicated to finding a solution that balances the need for practical experience with the realities faced by our diverse student population." Sharma did not offer specific details regarding potential revisions, but indicated announcements are expected "in the coming weeks."

The initial justification from the UGC centers around enhancing employability. A rapidly evolving job market demands more than just theoretical knowledge, and the commission believes practical experience is vital for graduates to secure meaningful employment. However, this argument is increasingly challenged. Analysts point out that the quality of an internship is far more important than the sheer number of hours clocked. A poorly structured or irrelevant internship can be detrimental, offering little to no benefit to the student.

"The UGC's intention is laudable," says Dr. Anika Verma, a professor of education policy at Delhi University. "But the one-size-fits-all approach is deeply flawed. Students pursuing research-intensive degrees, for example, may already be engaged in substantial practical work within their university labs. To impose a separate 40-hour internship requirement on top of that is unreasonable."

Furthermore, the availability of internships, particularly in certain fields and geographical locations, remains a significant hurdle. Competition for limited internship slots is fierce, and students from smaller towns and less prestigious institutions often find themselves at a disadvantage. The lack of a centralized internship platform further exacerbates the problem, leaving students to navigate a fragmented and often opaque landscape.

The anonymous student quoted previously represents a growing chorus of voices expressing frustration. "I come from a family where both my parents are daily wage earners," they explained. "I also contribute to household income by tutoring younger children. Finding 40 hours a month for an unpaid internship, even if I could find one, is simply impossible. It feels like this rule is designed to exclude students like me."

The situation echoes concerns raised in 2024 regarding similar internship mandates in European countries, where policymakers were forced to introduce flexibility and financial support for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Experts suggest the Indian government could learn from these experiences by implementing measures such as stipends for internships, particularly for students from low-income families, and recognizing research work and project-based learning as equivalent to traditional internships. A tiered system, allowing for variations in the required hours based on degree type and student circumstances, is also being proposed.

The coming weeks will be critical. The government's response to the mounting criticism will not only shape the future of higher education in India but also determine whether the pursuit of workforce preparedness comes at the cost of equitable access to opportunity. The BJP's commitment to "justice for all" will be put to the test as it navigates this complex issue and seeks a solution that genuinely benefits all students, regardless of their background.