Are you a student passionate about agriculture, economics, or rural development? The NABARD Student Internship Scheme (SIS) 2025-26 offers a paid internship with hands-on experience in India’s rural financial sector. With 39 seats available and a ₹18,000/month stipend, this is a golden opportunity to work on real-world projects while contributing to meaningful change.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know—eligibility, themes, selection process, stipend details, and key deadlines. Plus, we’ve included an FAQ section to answer all your queries.
Why Should You Apply for NABARD SIS 2025-26?
NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development) plays a crucial role in India’s rural economy. Through the NABARD SIS 2025-26, students get to:
✅ Work on high-impact projects like farmer financing and agri-value chains.
✅ Earn a generous stipend (₹18,000/month + field allowances).
✅ Gain industry exposure and boost your resume.
✅ Contribute to policy-level research with real-world applications.
If you’re looking for an internship that pays well and adds value to your career, this is it!
Key Details of NABARD SIS 2025-26
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Seats | 39 (34 Regional Offices + 5 Head Office) |
| Eligibility | Postgrad students (1st year completed) in Agriculture, Economics, Management, etc. |
| Stipend | ₹18,000/month + ₹2,000/day for field visits |
| Duration | 8-12 weeks (April 18 – August 31, 2025) |
| Last Date | April 7, 2025 |
4 Exciting Research Themes for Interns
You’ll work on one of these critical topics:
1. 🚜 NWRS Financing to Farmers – Loan Utilization & Challenges
Analyze how farmers use NABARD loans and identify gaps.
2. 💰 NBFCs in Rural Areas – Financial Inclusion & Issues
Study how Non-Banking Financial Companies support rural economies.
3. 👨🌾 Tenant Farmers – Struggles & Policy Solutions
Explore why tenant farmers struggle to get credit and suggest improvements.
4. 🍎 Fruit Cluster Value Chains – Boosting Farmer Income
Research ways to improve supply chains for fruits like mangoes, apples, etc.
Who Can Apply?
Postgraduate students (completed 1st year) in Agriculture, Economics, Social Sciences, or Management.
5-year integrated course students in their 4th year.
Indian students studying abroad are also eligible!
Note: If applying for a Regional Office, you must be a resident of that state.
How to Get Selected?
Submit Application (March 25 – April 7, 2025) – Apply Here
Shortlisting (April 9, 2025) – Based on 10th, 12th, and graduation marks.
Interview (Final selection by April 17, 2025) – Performance-based.
What’s in It for You?
Stipend: ₹18,000 per month (for 2-3 months).
Field Allowance: ₹2,000/day (up to 30 days).
Certificate: Valuable for future jobs & higher studies.
Networking: Connect with NABARD officials & experts.
FAQs – NABARD SIS 2025-26
1. Can I choose my research topic?
Yes, but only from the four themes provided by NABARD.
2. Is this internship remote or field-based?
Mostly field-based, with some desk research.
3. What’s the last date to apply?
April 7, 2025 – Don’t miss it!
4. How strict is the eligibility criteria?
You must be a postgraduate student (1st year completed) in relevant fields.
5. Can I apply for multiple locations?
No, choose one Regional Office or Head Office (Mumbai).
Conclusion
The NABARD Student Internship Scheme 2025-26 isn’t just another internship—it’s a transformative experience that bridges academic knowledge with real-world impact. For students passionate about agricultural economics, rural development, or financial inclusion, this program offers unparalleled advantages:
🔹 Skill Development: You’ll gain hands-on experience in field research, data analysis, and policy evaluation—skills highly valued by employers in development sectors.
🔹 Networking Goldmine: Working with NABARD experts gives you access to industry leaders, policymakers, and grassroots innovators, opening doors for future collaborations.
🔹 Resume Booster: A NABARD internship certificate carries prestige in government, banking, and NGO sectors, giving you an edge in placements or higher studies.
🔹 Financial Support: With ₹18,000/month + field allowances, you’re paid to learn—a rare combo in most internships.
🔹 Social Impact: Your research could directly influence policies that empower farmers, NBFCs, or fruit growers, leaving a tangible legacy.
Pro Tip:
If you’re on the fence, remember—top institutions like IRMA, RBI, and the World Bank value NABARD experience. Early-career opportunities like this can shape your professional trajectory.
Don’t wait! With only 39 seats and a April 7 deadline, competition will be fierce.
🔗 Apply Now: NABARD SIS 2025-26 Portal
🔗 Apply Now: NABARD SIS 2025-26 Application Link
