National Biodiversity Authority launches short term Internship Programme in Biodiversity Conservation and Natural Resources Management sectors, for College Students

**Executive Summary** The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has launched a new short-term internship program (up to 3 months) for undergraduate and postgraduate students to provide project-based learning in biodiversity conservation. This initiative complements the ongoing one-year Biodiversity Samrakshan Internship Programme (BSIP), which is currently in its sixth cycle. These programs aim to build professional capacity, enhance employment opportunities, and develop a cadre of "biodiversity ambassadors" to support state-level conservation bodies. **Key Points / Main Content** **Short-term Internship Programme** * **Duration:** Up to three months. * **Eligibility:** Open to students currently enrolled in graduation or post-graduation courses. * **Focus:** Offers hands-on, project-based learning through active engagement with NBA programs. * **Objectives:** Designed to build capacity, deepen environmental awareness, and improve employment prospects in the natural resources management sector. **Biodiversity Samrakshan Internship Programme (BSIP)** * **Structure:** A regular one-year program with the possibility of extension for two additional years. * **Current Status:** The program is in its sixth cycle, with 24 interns currently selected and placed. * **Collaborators:** Developed in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). * **Selection Process:** Interns are chosen through a competitive all-India process. * **Placement:** Interns are deployed to State Biodiversity Boards (SBBs) and Union Territory Biodiversity Councils (UTBCs) across India. **Operational Activities and Funding** * **Intern Responsibilities:** Interns participate in meetings, organize programs, conduct field studies, and support the daily functioning of SBBs and UTBCs. * **Financial Investment:** The NBA invests approximately Rs. One Crore to support these internships. * **Historical Context:** The first BSIP cycle (2019–20) was officially inaugurated on May 22, 2020. **Impact Analysis** **College Students (Undergraduates and Post-graduates)** **Impact** Students gain access to hands-on field engagement and professional training, significantly enhancing their employability in the biodiversity and natural resource management sectors. **Action Required** Interested students must participate in the competitive all-India application process to secure placement. **State Biodiversity Boards (SBBs) and Union Territory Biodiversity Councils (UTBCs)** **Impact** These bodies receive essential support in their daily functioning, including assistance with field studies, meeting coordination, and program organization. **Action Required** These organizations must integrate and mentor the 24 selected interns placed within their offices to support local biodiversity initiatives. **National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) / MoEFCC** **Impact** The authorities successfully develop a cadre of trained young professionals and "biodiversity ambassadors" while strengthening national conservation infrastructure. **Action Required** The NBA must continue to manage the Rs. One Crore investment and oversee the placement and extension opportunities for interns across the various cycles.

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