26 March 2025: Internships are taking centre stage as companies gear up to equip young talent with real-world skills! According to new data from Indeed, the global matching and hiring platform, India has seen a staggering 103% increase in internship postings over the past three years (Feb 2022–Feb 2025), underscoring how businesses are doubling down on internships to bridge the gap between academics and industry expectations.
In just the past year, internship postings have jumped by 23%, reflecting a steady focus on nurturing future-ready professionals. As industries evolve—especially with the rise of AI, data analytics, and digital transformation—companies are using internships not only to offer hands-on experience but also to spot and groom top talent early on. Delhi, Karnataka, and Maharashtra lead the pack when it comes to internship searches, accounting for 7.2%, 6.8%, and 6.2% of total searches, respectively.
Sashi Kumar, Head of Sales, Indeed India said “For young professionals, internships provide a powerful platform to sharpen their skills, gain hands-on experience, and explore emerging career paths. An internship isn’t just a checkbox on a resume—it’s a first real step into the professional world. The skills you learn and the experiences you gain shape how you navigate your career. “
Top skills that employers are on the lookout for
Indeed’s data shows that companies are seeking a diverse mix of skills in their interns, with communication skills (31.99%) topping the list. Other in-demand abilities include:
- English proficiency (12%)
- Keyword research (9%)
- Analytical skills (9%)
- SEO expertise (8%)
- Microsoft Excel (8%)
- Python programming (7%)
- Microsoft Office proficiency (7%)
- HTML and JavaScript (6% each) continue to be valuable, reflecting the growing demand for digital and web development skills.
Perks beyond pay: What’s driving internship popularity
Indeed’s data shows that the average internship stipend in India stands at ₹25,432 per month, but cities like Hyderabad, Bangalore, Mumbai, Pune, and Gurgaon offer stipends above this national average. On the flip side, cities like Chennai and Kolkata fall on the lower end of the spectrum.
However, it’s not just about stipends anymore. While internships have long been viewed as unpaid labour, that narrative is rapidly changing. Today, employers are stepping up their game, offering additional perks and benefits to create a rewarding experience for interns. Popular benefits include:
- Work-from-home options
- Flexible schedules
- Health insurance coverage
- Paid sick time
- Cell phone reimbursements
These additional perks show how companies are recognizing the importance of making internships more enriching, paving the way for smoother transitions into full-time roles.
Tips for aspiring interns: Stand out and get hired
For those looking to land a meaningful internship, building a standout resume highlighting relevant skills is key. Employers value communication and analytical thinking, so honing these soft skills can give candidates an edge. Participating in industry projects and staying updated on emerging technologies can further boost internship prospects. As companies continue to emphasize hiring adaptable, future-ready talent, internships remain a powerful launchpad for young professionals to kickstart their careers.