The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is opening its doors to students through a newly launched internship scheme, marking a new era in experiential learning for aspiring engineers. This program is designed to immerse participants in the dynamic world of national highway projects, from planning to execution.

Under the initiative, undergraduates and postgraduates in relevant disciplines can apply for positions at various NHAI regional offices and project sites. Interns will shadow professionals, contribute to feasibility studies, quality audits, and even environmental impact assessments. A key highlight is the focus on emerging areas such as Bharatmala projects, highway digitalization, and eco-friendly construction practices.

NHAI has allocated spots for 500 interns in the inaugural phase, with durations ranging from 45 days to six months. Successful candidates will receive competitive stipends, travel allowances, and NHAI-issued certificates that boost employability. The authority plans to scale up the program annually, aligning with its goal to construct 25,000 km of highways every year.

Experts point out that this comes amid a talent crunch in the infrastructure sector, where demand for skilled professionals outstrips supply. By partnering with universities, NHAI ensures a steady pipeline of trained talent familiar with real-world challenges like land acquisition hurdles, cost overruns, and tech integration.

The launch has sparked enthusiasm among student communities, with online registrations surging within hours. This forward-thinking approach not only equips youth with practical skills but also cultivates a sense of ownership in nation-building. As India accelerates its highway network to enhance logistics and connectivity, NHAI’s internship program emerges as a cornerstone for sustainable growth and innovation.