The Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India, has announced the Mass Communication Internship Program 2025–26 to support Ph.D. students in India pursuing advanced research in communication, media, and related fields. This initiative aims to nurture academic excellence and research potential among outstanding scholars through structured financial assistance for tuition, maintenance, and research expenses. The programme provides a monthly award of up to ₹33,000 for eligible candidates and is open to Indian nationals enrolled full-time in Ph.D. programmes at recognised Indian universities or institutions. The application deadline for the 2025–26 cycle is 24 November 2025.
Overview of Mass Communication Internship Program 2025–26
The Mass Communication Internship 2025–26 offers funding and mentorship opportunities to enhance doctoral research in fields that align with the Ministry’s objectives, including communication for social development, public outreach, and sustainable water resource management.
| Particulars | Details |
| Programme Name | Mass Communication Internship Program 2025–26 |
| Conducted By | Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India |
| Target Group | Full-time Ph.D. Scholars (Mass Communication & Allied Fields) |
| Award Amount | Up to ₹33,000 per month |
| Duration | 6 months (extendable by 3 months) |
| Contingency Grant | ₹15,000 per annum |
| Application Deadline | 24 November 2025 |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Official Website | Ministry of Jal Shakti – jalshakti-dowr.gov.in |
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following eligibility conditions to apply for the Mass Communication Internship 2025–26:
- Must be an Indian citizen.
- Must hold a first-class postgraduate degree with at least 55% marks in both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
- Must be registered for a Ph.D. degree at a recognised Indian university or institution at the time of application.
- Should be a full-time Ph.D. scholar.
- Must be below 35 years of age as of 1 October 2025.
- Candidates belonging to OBC-NCL, SC, ST, PwD, women, and third gender categories, as well as armed forces personnel, are eligible for a 5-year age relaxation under government norms.
Benefits of the Internship Program
Selected candidates under the Ministry of Jal Shakti’s Mass Communication Internship 2025–26 will receive comprehensive financial support, including:
- Maintenance Allowance (including tuition): ₹18,000 per month
- Contingency Grant: ₹15,000 per annum for research materials, study tours, books, and stationery
- Total Monthly Support (Maximum): Up to ₹33,000 per month
The initial fellowship duration is six months, which may be extended by up to three additional months based on performance and research requirements.
Required Documents
Applicants must upload scanned copies of the following documents at the time of submission:
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Academic transcripts (graduate and postgraduate)
- Proof of Date of Birth (DOB certificate or matriculation certificate)
- Caste/Disability certificate (if applicable)
- Research proposal summary (if required)
Selection Process
The selection of candidates for the Mass Communication Internship Program 2025–26 will be merit-based and follow a multi-step evaluation:
- Shortlisting based on academic performance and eligibility.
- Evaluation of research proposal and its relevance to the field of mass communication and development.
- Recommendation letters from academic supervisors.
- Final selection by a panel of experts constituted by the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
Selection parameters include:
- Academic excellence and potential for impactful research.
- Quality and originality of the proposed study.
- Consistency in academic records and relevant professional experience (if any).
- Completeness of documentation and compliance with eligibility norms.
How to Apply for the Mass Communication Internship 2025–26
Interested and eligible candidates can apply by following these steps:
- Visit the official website of the Ministry of Jal Shakti – jalshakti-dowr.gov.in.
- Navigate to the “Internship/Scholarship Programmes” section.
- Click on Mass Communication Internship Program 2025–26.
- Complete the online registration form and upload the required documents.
- Verify the entered details carefully before submission.
- Submit the form and retain a copy of the confirmation receipt for future reference.
Key Dates
- Application Start Date: Already Open
- Application Deadline: 24 November 2025
- Result Announcement: December 2025 (Tentative)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| Who is eligible for the Mass Communication Internship Program 2025–26? |
| Indian nationals enrolled full-time in a Ph.D. programme at a recognised Indian university are eligible to apply. |
| What is the last date to apply for the internship? |
| The application deadline for the Mass Communication Internship Program 2025–26 is 24 November 2025. |
| What is the age limit for applicants? |
| Applicants must be under 35 years as of 1 October 2025. A 5-year relaxation applies to OBC-NCL / SC / ST / PwD / women/third gender/armed forces candidates. |
| What is the stipend amount offered under the programme? |
| Selected scholars will receive up to ₹33,000 per month, including maintenance and tuition allowance. |
| What is the duration of the fellowship? |
| The internship lasts for six months and can be extended by three additional months based on performance. |
| Which documents are required for application? |
| Applicants must provide academic transcripts, photograph, DOB proof, and caste/disability certificate (if applicable). |
| How are candidates selected? |
| Selection is based on academic excellence, research quality, supervisor recommendations, and eligibility compliance. |
| Where can candidates apply for the programme? |
| Applications can be submitted online through the official website jalshakti-dowr.gov.in. |
The Mass Communication Internship Program 2025–26 by the Ministry of Jal Shakti offers a valuable opportunity for Ph.D. scholars in India to receive academic and financial support for their research. With a monthly stipend of up to ₹33,000 and additional research grants, this programme aims to foster innovation and excellence in communication research. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply before 24 November 2025 and regularly check the official website for updates. To stay informed about future opportunities, bookmark this page for quick reference, for more details and apply CLICK HERE
