Business

FM Sitharaman Introduces PM Internship Scheme App to Enhance Youth Employability

Published

1 year ago

March 18, 2025

On Monday, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled a dedicated mobile app for the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme. She praised the Prime Minister’s vision of implementing a series of five initiatives aimed at enhancing employment, skill development, and opportunities. The minister highlighted that this scheme has the potential to close the gap between academic knowledge and industry demands, ultimately boosting the employability of young people.

Sitharaman encouraged companies to engage actively with the scheme, pointing out that their participation would not only contribute to national development but also cultivate a skilled workforce across the nation.

The app features an intuitive design that ensures easy navigation and seamless registration via Aadhaar face authentication. It includes a personalized dashboard, access to a dedicated support team, and real-time notifications to keep candidates updated on the latest developments.

Users can also explore a referral program recently introduced by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), which allows registered youth to refer other eligible candidates for the scheme and earn rewards. Those signed up on the PM Internship portal can participate in this referral initiative.

Launched as part of the Budget 2024-25, the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme aims to offer internship positions to one crore youth within the top 500 companies over five years. The initial Pilot Project aims to provide 1.25 lakh internship opportunities for the financial year 2024-25.

This scheme enables young individuals to obtain training and gain valuable experience and skills in real-world business settings for a minimum of six months, thereby bridging the gap between academic education and industry needs, which in turn enhances their employability.

Each intern will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 5,000, accompanied by a one-time financial support of Rs 6,000.

In the first round of the pilot project (October–December 2024), over 1.27 lakh internship opportunities were posted across approximately 745 districts by around 280 companies spanning 25 sectors, resulting in over 82,000 offers made to candidates.

The second round of the Pilot Project began in January 2025, with around 327 companies posting upwards of 1.18 lakh opportunities (including both new openings and previously unfilled positions) nationwide. The application window for Round II is open until March 31.

Business

Tomato Prices Crash from Rs.1200 to Rs.80, Farmers in Distress

Published

3 weeks ago

March 25, 2026

Namma Kudla

Business: Tomato prices in Vijayanagara district have dropped sharply, causing heavy losses to farmers and traders. A box of tomatoes that was earlier sold for Rs.1000 to Rs.1200 is now being sold for just Rs.80 to Rs.100.

Due to the sudden fall in prices, farmers are struggling to recover their investment. Many had taken loans to grow the crop and are now facing financial difficulties.

In local markets, traders are selling tomatoes at very low rates. Around 2 to 4 kilograms of tomatoes are being sold for just Rs.20.

The price crash has been linked to multiple reasons. Export of tomatoes to other countries has reduced due to the Iran–Israel conflict. In addition, many hotels are not operating properly due to a shortage of cooking gas cylinders. This has reduced demand for tomatoes.

As a result, both farmers and sellers are facing serious losses, and the situation has become very difficult for them.

Business

Gold Prices Rise in Mangaluru; 24K Gold at Rs.13,564 per Gram

Published

3 weeks ago

March 24, 2026

Namma Kudla

Mangaluru: Gold prices in the coastal city of Mangaluru have been updated today, reflecting the latest market trends.

The price of 24 karat gold (99.9% purity) stands at Rs.13,564 per gram. Meanwhile, 22 karat gold (91.6% purity) is priced at Rs.12,434 per gram. The rate for 18 karat gold (75% purity) is Rs.10,173 per gram.

Mangaluru, known for its rich coastal culture and love for seafood, also has a deep connection with gold. The demand for gold ornaments in the city remains strong, especially during weddings and festivals.

The gold trade in Mangaluru has a long history and continues to play an important role in the local economy. Many families prefer investing in gold due to its cultural and financial value.

Buyers are advised to check the latest rates before making any purchase, as gold prices may change daily based on market conditions.

For those planning to buy gold, using a Gold Rate Calculator can help in getting accurate pricing based on weight and purity.

Business

Good News for Milk Producers in Chikkaballapur – 50 Paise Increase per Litre

Published

1 month ago

March 8, 2026

Namma Kudla

Chikkaballapur: The Chikkaballapur Milk Union (Chimul) has announced good news for milk producers in Chikkaballapur district. The union has decided to increase the milk procurement price by 50 paise per litre, which will benefit dairy farmers in the district.

Earlier, on January 1, Chimul had increased the price by Rs.1 per litre as a New Year benefit to farmers. Now, the union has announced an additional 50 paise increase.

With this latest revision, dairy farmers will receive Rs.36.40 per litre for milk. The 50 paise increase will remain in effect until the end of May.

Chimul President Manjunath Reddy told Public TV that the union will review its profits and may continue the price increase in the future based on financial performance.

The decision is expected to provide some relief and encouragement to dairy farmers in Chikkaballapur district.