Harsh Reality of Unpaid Internships in India

**The Harsh Reality of Unpaid Internships in India: Big Brands, Empty Pockets**  

Many students across India take on unpaid internships, even with top companies, solely for the promise of "exposure." Despite contributing to real projects—sometimes high-stakes ones—they receive no financial compensation. While the experience may be valuable, the financial and emotional toll is heavy, particularly for those from less privileged backgrounds. Why do unpaid internships remain prevalent in reputed organizations?  

### **The Unpaid Labor Crisis**  

Thousands of students, from metros to small towns, invest time and effort into internships without earning a rupee. At best, they gain "exposure"; at worst, they bear expenses like travel, food, and rent. Shockingly, even major private firms, media houses, NGOs, and government-linked institutions offer unpaid or underpaid roles.  

According to an Internshala report, **35% of internships in India pay nothing**, while another **25% offer less than ₹3,000 per month**. Fields like media, tech, and corporate sectors frequently exploit unpaid labor. Students accept these roles, believing a big brand name will boost their careers, but the hidden costs are severe.  

### **Financial Exclusion**  

Unpaid internships are a luxury many cannot afford. Students from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities or low-income backgrounds often skip opportunities due to financial constraints. Aman, an intern at Makonis Solutions and IIT Guwahati, admits that while the experience was rewarding, a stipend would have provided **"more confidence and encouragement."**  

### **The Prestige Illusion**  

Big brands justify unpaid roles with promises of "networking" and "exposure." Trisha Pal, who interned at Reliance Industries Ltd, says she accepted the role for the brand value, despite financial strain. This mindset normalizes unpaid work, shifting focus from skill-building to resume padding.  

### **Mental Health Toll**  

Juggling studies, travel, and unpaid work leads to burnout. Kirti Gupta, an intern at the Archaeological Survey of India, recalls feeling **"tired and guilty"** for depending on her parents. Many interns question if the sacrifice is worth it, especially when peers secure paid roles.  

### **Urban vs. Rural Divide**  

Metro-based students often rely on family support, while those from smaller towns face extra costs like housing and transport. This disparity widens opportunity gaps.  

### **Class Privilege at Play**  

Unpaid internships favor the privileged—those who can afford free labor gain early access to networks and job referrals. Kirti admits feeling **"unfairly excluded"** from opportunities simply because she couldn’t work for free.  

### **Government & Policy Failures**  

Even government bodies like NITI Aayog and Parliament offer unpaid internships. Despite the National Education Policy 2020 promoting internships, **no mandates ensure fair pay or inclusivity**.  

### **Why ₹5,000 Matters**  

A small stipend can cover essentials like food and travel, validating an intern’s effort. Trisha and Kushagra Singh (an MNC intern) agree: **paid opportunities should always be prioritized** when exposure is equal.  

### **Why Do Unpaid Internships Persist?**  

Companies benefit from free labor while students chase brand names. To break the cycle:  

1. **Legislation** – Enforce minimum stipends.  

2. **Corporate Responsibility** – Budget for fair intern pay.  

3. **Student Advocacy** – Demand fair compensation.  

Aman’s statement captures the dilemma: **"I didn’t let lack of pay stop me."** But should students have to choose between survival and growth?  

---  

**Published By:** Princy Shukla  

** Via article Published on :** Aug 1, 2025 . IndianToday.