The DESW Internship Scheme is an important initiative of the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare – DESW Ministry of Defence Government of India. This scheme is designed to engage Indian youth in research and practical work related to ex-servicemen welfare. The scheme focuses on welfare, healthcare, resettlement and administrative systems that affect veterans and their families. This internship is non-remunerative but structured to deliver meaningful experience through assigned research topics and a final report. Interns who perform satisfactorily receive a certificate of completion and DESW may publish selected reports with due credit to the intern. The program runs year-round and allows duration flexibility from two months up to twelve months.
Who Can Apply? — Eligibility Conditions
- Applicant must be an Indian citizen.
- Applicant should be a graduate or postgraduate from a recognised university or institution in any academic stream.
- Students currently enrolled must submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their parent institution prior to joining, where applicable.
Internship Duration & Scope
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Duration | 2 months. |
| Maximum Duration | 12 months. |
| Availability | Internships available throughout the year based on DESW requirements. |
| Core Areas | Welfare schemes, resettlement & rehabilitation, healthcare policies for veterans, and administrative processes. |
How to Apply Online
- Visit the DESW official website at www.desw.gov.in/ and click on Scheme menu to find the DESW Internship Scheme link.
- Click the application link provided in the scheme guidelines to open the Google Form proforma for the DESW Internship Scheme.
- Complete personal details including name, date of birth, nationality and correspondence address as requested on the form.
- Enter academic details for 10th, 12th, graduation and post-graduation (if applicable), select the internship period (2 months to 1 year) and choose area(s) of interest from the options provided.
- Write a concise Statement of Purpose (maximum 200 words) explaining why you want to join the DESW Internship Scheme and agree to the applicant undertaking on the form.
- Submit the online form. If shortlisted for interview, be prepared to submit a hard copy of your resume, the statement of purpose, and NOC from your institution (if you are presently enrolled).
Deliverables, Completion & Certification
Each intern is expected to study the assigned topic, produce a well-researched report, and participate in discussions or presentations if requested. Completion is validated by submission of the final report to the designated officer. DESW issues a certificate of successful completion when performance meets expectations. Some high-quality reports or excerpts may be published by DESW with due attribution.
Pay Scale & Benefits
| Item | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Stipend | This is a non-remunerative internship; no stipend is provided. |
| Learning Benefits | Firsthand exposure to veteran welfare programmes and policy processes. |
| Certification | Certificate of successful completion on satisfactory performance. |
| Publication | Potential for selected reports to be published with credit to the intern. |
Documents You Must Keep Ready
- Resume (hard copy for interview/verification).
- Statement of Purpose (max 200 words) prepared in advance.
- Educational qualification proofs (10th, 12th, graduation, post-graduation mark sheets/certificates).
- Proof of nationality (Aadhaar, Passport or other government-issued ID).
- NOC from parent institution (for current students) or “Not Applicable” if not enrolled.
Important Dates & Application Window (Table)
| Item | Note |
|---|---|
| Opening Date | The scheme accepts applications throughout the year; no fixed single window. |
| Interview/Shortlisting | Candidates are contacted as per DESW requirements once the application is reviewed. |
| Internship Start | Start dates are mutually agreed depending on DESW assignments and intern availability. |
FAQs
Q1: Is the DESW Internship Scheme paid?
A1: No. The DESW Internship Scheme is non-remunerative and does not provide a stipend. Interns receive experiential benefits and a certificate on satisfactory completion.
Q2: Can a final-year student apply to the DESW Internship Scheme?
A2: Yes. Final-year students can apply but must submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their institution before joining, where applicable.
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Q3: How long does the selection process usually take?
A3: Selection timelines vary since internships are offered throughout the year and shortlisting depends on DESW requirements and the fit between applicant interests and available topics.
Important Links
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Official DESW Internship PDF (Guidelines) | DOWNLOAD PDF |
| DESW Official Website | https://www.desw.gov.in/ |
| Proforma / Application Google Form | CLICK HERE. |







