Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
The Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab government has announced financial assistance of ₹5,000 per month for 1,700 polytechnic students to help them undertake industrial internships and gain practical work experience.
Under the Punjab Sikhiya Kranti initiative, eligible students will receive financial support for up to four months, amounting to a maximum of ₹20,000 per student. There will be no family income limit for availing of the benefit.
The scheme will cover sixth-semester students of the 2024–27 batch across six diploma streams. The initiative aims to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent students from gaining industry exposure and developing skills required for employment.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said every young person should get an opportunity to turn education into a meaningful career. He added that the government aims to equip students of government institutions with practical skills and industry experience alongside academic qualifications.
Technical Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said the financial assistance would help students focus on hands-on training, learn from industry professionals and prepare themselves for employment.
Students already receiving stipends from industries or other sources will also be eligible for assistance to make up the difference if their monthly amount is below ₹5,000, subject to prescribed conditions.
To receive the assistance, students must maintain at least 90 per cent monthly attendance and submit verified attendance and progress reports. The final instalment will be released after successful completion of the internship and submission of the required completion certificate.
The government said the initiative is part of its broader efforts under Punjab Sikhiya Kranti to make technical education more practical, industry-oriented and aligned with the employment aspirations of Punjab's youth.
