Policy in Action: Field Insights from an Internship at NITI Aayog

During the second year of my college, I had the incredible opportunity to intern at NITI Aayog, under the Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP) vertical. NITI Aayog serves as the apex public policy think tank of the Government of India and my experience was not just an internship; it was an eye-opening journey that provided me with invaluable insights into district-level planning, grassroots development, and opportunities for me to contribute to policy-making.

Under the ADP vertical, I worked closely with NITI Aayog’s development partner, the Piramal Foundation. The ADP aims to rapidly transform districts that have shown relatively less progress in key social areas, including health, education, and infrastructure. Being a part of this initiative allowed me to witness first-hand how strategic interventions can lead to significant improvements in the lives of people.

My primary responsibility during the internship was to assist in the design and implementation of health programmes. I was involved in data analysis and the development of strategic plans aimed at improving healthcare delivery in aspirational districts. Along with my cohort of interns, we sought innovative solutions to complex health challenges. The mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals at both NITI Aayog and the Piramal Foundation were instrumental in honing my skills and understanding the practical aspects of policy implementation.

One of the highlights of my internship was the field visit to Nuh district in Haryana. Known for its socio-economic challenges, Nuh provided a real-world context to the theoretical knowledge I had gained. During the visit, I interacted with local school teachers, education officers, community leaders, and residents to understand their challenges and perspectives. This ground-level engagement was pivotal in understanding the gaps in public service delivery and identifying potential areas for intervention.

Interning at NITI Aayog opened doors to numerous opportunities. The exposure to collaborative projects with government and non-government stakeholders expanded my professional network. This network proved invaluable when I began exploring career opportunities post-graduation. The credibility and connections gained during my internship facilitated my entry into influential roles within both public and private sectors.

Why Students Should Apply to NITI Aayog

Interning at NITI Aayog, under its various verticals, offers a unique opportunity to contribute to projects that have a direct impact on the nation’s development. It allows students to apply their academic knowledge to real-world problems and see the tangible outcomes of their work. The internship provides exposure to high-level policy discussions and strategic planning, which can expand one’s worldview and be a stepping stone to exploring different opportunities. This experience is invaluable for personal and professional growth.

Moreover, working at NITI Aayog opens doors to a vast network of professionals in the public policy domain. The interactions with experts, mentors, and peers are beneficial for building a career in policy-making, governance, or any related field. The multidisciplinary nature of the work at NITI Aayog ensures that interns develop a holistic understanding of development issues. The blend of office work and field visits equips interns with a balanced perspective on policy implementation.

How to Apply

Students interested in interning at NITI Aayog should keep an eye on the official NITI Aayog website and their internship portal. Typically, the application process involves submitting a resume, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. Highlighting relevant academic projects, volunteer work, and any previous internships can strengthen your application. Additionally, expressing a clear interest in the specific vertical you wish to work in, such as the ADP, and reaching out via cold-mailing can enhance your chances of selection.