The National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI), under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), has introduced its Internet Governance Internship and Capacity Building Scheme. Launched by Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary of MeitY and Chairman of NIXI, the program aims to cultivate expertise in internet governance among Indian citizens, equipping them to actively participate in global processes.
Key highlights of the scheme:
- Objective: To build a pool of domestic talent proficient in emerging internet governance issues and capable of engaging with international bodies such as ICANN, ISOC, IEEE, and IETF.
- Program structure: The scheme offers two tracks—a six-month and a three-month internship—where participants will receive mentorship from international experts, retired government officials, and academic faculty.
- Stipend and support: Interns will receive a monthly stipend of ₹20,000, along with assistance to organize mandatory outreach initiatives.
- Global collaboration: Participants will engage in global policy discussions, fostering practical understanding and valuable exposure in digital policy.
Speaking at the launch, Shri Krishnan emphasized the need for skilled individuals in internet governance to address societal concerns and drive inclusive digital transformation. Shri Bhuvnesh Kumar, Additional Secretary, MeitY, highlighted the mentorship program’s role in shaping future leaders. Dr. Devesh Tyagi, CEO of NIXI, called this initiative a crucial step towards building an accessible and inclusive digital ecosystem.
Established in 2003, NIXI plays a pivotal role in increasing internet adoption in India, managing internet exchange points, and promoting .IN domain registration. For more information on the program, visit NIXI’s official page.
