If you are a student or recent graduate who wants to work on India’s biggest policy and development projects, the NITI Aayog Internship 2026 is one of the most valuable opportunities you can apply for. The internship gives you a chance to work closely with experts in governance, economics, environment, data analysis, social justice, and various public-policy verticals. While the internship is unpaid, the experience, exposure, and official certificate make it one of the most respected internships in India.
NITI Aayog opens applications every month from 1 to 10, and for the December 2026 cycle, the last date to apply is 10 December. In this blog, you will find complete details about eligibility, documents required, duration, certificate, application process, and SOP tips.
What Is NITI Aayog Internship 2026?
NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) runs an official Internship Scheme designed to help students and graduates gain meaningful exposure to government policymaking. Interns get to work with senior officials, access key datasets, contribute to policy drafts, conduct research, and participate in analytical work that impacts national decisions.
The internship is open throughout the year, but applications are accepted only from 1 to 10 of each month. Selected interns must complete the minimum duration to receive the official certificate.
Key Highlights of NITI Aayog Internship 2026
Application Window: 1 to 10 December
Mode: Offline (in-office at NITI Aayog, New Delhi)
Internship Type: Unpaid
Certificate: Provided on successful completion
Duration: Minimum 6 weeks, maximum 6 months
Eligibility: UG, PG, and Research Scholars
Sectors: Economics, Social Justice, Energy, Environment, Governance, Data, Science & Tech, Skill Development, and more
Monthly intakes: Yes, applications open every month
Eligibility Criteria for NITI Aayog Internship 2026
The eligibility is flexible but strictly merit-based. Below are the complete details:
1. Undergraduate Students
For UG students, the eligibility requirements are:
Must have completed at least the 2nd year or 4th semester of the degree program
Must have 85% marks or above in Class 12 (10+2)
Must be enrolled in a recognised university or institute
2. Postgraduate Students
PG students must meet these conditions:
Must have completed at least the 1st year or 2nd semester
Must have 70% marks or above in their undergraduate degree
3. Research Scholars (PhD / MPhil)
Research scholars are also eligible if:
They are enrolled in a recognised research program
They maintain 70% marks or equivalent in their previous degrees
4. Recent Graduates
If you have completed your degree and are waiting for higher studies:
You can apply within 6 months of your result declaration
Minimum score required: 70% in the last degree
Important Condition
You can apply for only one internship in a financial year.
Documents Required for NITI Aayog Internship 2026
Before applying, prepare the following documents in soft copy:
Updated Resume or CV
Passport-size photograph
Aadhaar/PAN/Passport (any government ID)
Class 10+2 mark sheet
UG/PG mark sheets (as applicable)
College ID card
NOC (No Objection Certificate) from your institution, if required
Any certificate or project report relevant to your chosen domain
A well-written Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Keeping all documents ready ensures a smooth and fast application process.
Duration and Working Structure
Interns can choose a duration between:
Minimum: 6 weeks
Maximum: 6 months
Your duration depends on the project you are selected for and the division you join. Interns must maintain at least 75% attendance to qualify for the certificate.
Interns must bring their own laptop. NITI Aayog provides workspace, internet access, and necessary office resources.
Benefits of NITI Aayog Internship 2026
Even though the internship is unpaid, it offers several professional advantages:
1. Work with Senior Policy Experts
You collaborate with officials working on India’s long-term development plans and national strategies.
2. Real Policy and Research Experience
You get exposure to:
Data analysis
Policy drafting
Research studies
Impact evaluation
Field reports
Economic surveys
Strategic insights
3. Official Internship Certificate
A signed certificate from NITI Aayog significantly strengthens your profile. It is widely accepted for:
Job applications
Higher-education admissions
Government fellowship applications
International scholarships
4. Networking Opportunities
You get a chance to meet and learn from policy leaders, senior economists, data scientists, and domain experts.
5. Career Growth
This internship is especially useful if you want to build a career in:
Public Policy
Data Analysis
Research
Economics
Law and Governance
Social Sector
Environmental Studies
Skill and Entrepreneurship Development
How to Apply for NITI Aayog Internship 2026
Follow this step-by-step process to apply between 1 and 10 December:
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Go to the official NITI Aayog Internship page from 1 December.
Step 2: Register and Fill the Form
Enter your personal, academic, and contact details accurately.
Step 3: Upload Your Documents
Attach your CV, mark sheets, ID proof, and NOC.
Step 4: Choose Your Preferred Domain
Select from divisions like:
Economics
Social Justice
Environment
Agriculture
Industry
Governance
Skill Development
Data & Analytics
Science & Technology
Health
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Choose a domain that matches your academic background.
Step 5: Submit Your SOP
Your Statement of Purpose plays a major role in selection.
Step 6: Submit Before 10 December
Avoid last-day submissions, as the portal can become slow.
Step 7: Selection and Joining
If selected, you will receive email communication along with the joining schedule.
How to Write a Strong SOP for NITI Aayog Internship
The SOP can decide whether you get selected or not. Use these tips:
Start with your motivation for joining NITI Aayog
Mention your relevant academic subjects
Highlight past research, projects, or internships
Show interest in your chosen domain
Explain how the internship aligns with your career goals
Keep the tone professional and authentic
Avoid generic statements
Keep it 500–800 words
A personalised and well-structured SOP increases your selection chances significantly.
Final Thoughts
The NITI Aayog Internship 2026 is one of the best policy-oriented internships for students who want real exposure to India’s development and governance ecosystem. With a flexible duration, a respected certificate, and the opportunity to work directly with senior experts, this program offers strong value for your academic and professional growth.
Make sure you apply between 1 and 10 December with complete documents and a strong SOP to boost your chances of selection. For more internship updates, government opportunities, and detailed application guides, visit naukriwakri.in.
