Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Launches ICSSR Research Internship Programme

New Delhi: Union Minister for Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, inaugurated the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) Research Internship Programme in Social and Human Sciences today in the capital. The event also witnessed the distribution of appointment letters to the first cohort of ICSSR Research Interns and awards to winners of the National Argumentative Essay Writing Competition on “Simultaneous Elections in India: One Nation, One Election.”

Prominent attendees included Prof. Dhananjay Singh, Member Secretary, ICSSR; Prof. Deepak K. Srivastava, Chairman, ICSSR; academicians; institutional heads; scholars; and students.

Speaking at the launch, Pradhan emphasized the importance of the internship programme, describing it as a transformative opportunity for postgraduate students in social sciences. He highlighted the critical role social science research plays in driving economic growth, embracing technological advancements, and achieving social progress in alignment with the national vision of Viksit Bharat.

“Technologies like Artificial Intelligence are rapidly transforming the job landscape. Social science research must adapt to ensure these disruptions contribute positively to social development,” the Minister stated.

Pradhan lauded the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 for recognizing the need for quality social science research, noting its potential to shape societal development. He explained that the ICSSR internship programme aligns with the NEP’s focus on internships as part of the National Credit Framework (NCrF), enabling students to earn credits while fostering research skills and policy innovation.

The Minister further remarked on the civilizational importance of robust social science research in preserving India’s ancient ethos while embracing modernity. He expressed confidence that the initiative would strengthen Bharatiyata and lay the groundwork for a forward-looking, resilient society.

The internship programme is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical employability skills. It will equip young social scientists and humanists with advanced research tools, methodologies, and real-world applications, focusing on areas such as statistics, sociology, applied psychology, public health, policy, and more.

Of over 3,600 applicants nationwide, 40 candidates were selected through a rigorous process that emphasized inclusivity. Interns will gain hands-on experience working with mentors from universities, think tanks, industry, and communities. The programme will also include workshops addressing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), contextualized to India’s developmental priorities as highlighted during its G20 presidency.

Pradhan noted that the initiative reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Anusandhan (research) as a critical component of India’s growth. By fostering research skills among the youth, the programme aims to contribute meaningfully to national development while addressing global challenges.