Internship Programme of the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (MoEFCC)

Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (MoEFCC) has opened its Internship Programme 2026 for students and researchers who want hands-on experience in wildlife conservation and crime prevention. The scheme is open to eligible Indian citizens pursuing higher education in relevant fields.

Each internship cycle lasts 1 to 3 months, and the 2026 internship period runs from June to December 2026. The programme is unpaid, but interns receive a certificate upon completion.

Registration for the 2026 cycle is open now. Candidates can apply through the offline postal route or by email. The application window is rolling, so interested applicants should apply at least 2 to 4 weeks before their preferred start month.

Interns get a chance to work alongside professionals at WCCB offices across India. They help with wildlife crime data collection, research, and public awareness campaigns. The programme runs on a rolling basis with batches starting throughout 2026.

Internship Programme of the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (MoEFCC)

Highlights

Eligibility

Candidates must meet the following criteria to apply for the WCCB Internship Programme 2026.

• You should be an Indian citizen.
• You should be pursuing a degree in graduation, post-graduation, or a diploma in fields such as Environmental Science, Wildlife Science, Zoology, Botany, Forestry, Law, Criminology, Forensics, Public Policy, Governance, Political Science, Journalism, Mass Communication, or any subject related to Wildlife Management, Conservation, or Protection.
• You should not hold a regular job in the public or private sector.
• You should be 30 years of age or younger.

How to Apply

STEP 1 - Visit the official WCCB website at wccb.gov.in and download the internship notification and the prescribed application format from the site.

STEP 2 - Fill out the application form completely. Attach all required documents including your updated CV, a Bonafide Certificate or NOC from your institution, a Statement of Purpose (maximum 300 words), a copy of your Aadhaar Card or government ID, and a recent passport-sized photograph.

STEP 3 - Combine all documents into a single PDF file. Send the PDF by email to wccbhq-internship@gov.in with the subject line "Application for WCCB Internship 2026 - [Your Name] - [Preferred Location]".

STEP 4 - Alternatively, you can send the completed application form by post to The Additional Director, Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, 2nd Floor, Trikoot-I, Bhikaji Cama Place, New Delhi - 110 066. Mark the envelope clearly as "Application for Internship for Month/Year" and make sure it reaches the office at least 5 weeks before the internship start date.

STEP 5 - Wait for the selection committee to review your application. Only shortlisted candidates will receive an email confirmation. If you do not hear back within 3 to 4 weeks, you may follow up by email.

Documents Required

Applicants must submit the following documents along with their application.

1. Two self-attested identity proofs, one of which should be your Aadhar Card.
2. Your updated Curriculum Vitae.
3. A Bonafide Certificate or NOC from the head of your academic institution on official letterhead.
4. A Statement of Purpose (maximum 300 words).
5. Self-attested copies of all educational qualification certificates mentioned in your form.
6. A recent passport-sized photograph.

Nature of Work

Interns at WCCB work on real-time policy briefs, case studies, awareness material, and field reports. You will gather and organize data related to wildlife crimes or perform other duties as assigned by your department head. The work may be desk research and documentation, or it may include field components depending on the department and region.

Interns may work under various divisions including Legal, Technical, Coordination, and Awareness. You will be supervised by the Regional Deputy Director at regional offices or by the Additional Director at the bureau headquarters.

Benefits

After you successfully finish your internship and submit your final report, you will receive an official certificate from WCCB. The internship also provides valuable research experience and exposure to ministry-level work. There is no financial remuneration or stipend for interns.

Important Dates for 2026

The notification for the 2026 cycle is expected to be released between April and May 2026. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so apply early. The internship period runs from June to December 2026, with each cycle lasting 1 to 3 months.

Locations

Internships are available at WCCB headquarters in New Delhi and at regional offices in Chennai, Kolkata, Jabalpur, Mumbai, and other locations. You can mention your preferred office in the application, but final allocation depends on availability and approval.

References

Guidelines: wccb.gov.in/WriteReadData/UserFiles/file/IntershipDated061120.pdf

Application Form: wccb.gov.in/WriteReadData/userfiles/file/Internship%20Programme/Application%20Form.pdf

FAQ's

What is the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau and what is its purpose?

Wildlife Crime Control Bureau is a statutory multi-disciplinary body set up by the government of India under the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change to tackle organized wildlife crime across the country.

Where is the headquarters of the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau located?

The headquarters of WCCB is in New Delhi, at 2nd Floor, Trikoot-I, Bhikaji Cama Place, New Delhi - 110 066.

Does joining or completing an internship program at WCCB guarantee a job in the organization?

No, an internship here does not assure you of a job offer.

Are interns required to sign an undertaking regarding non-disclosure of information?

Yes, you must sign an undertaking to keep all official information confidential during your internship.

Are interns allowed to use data collected or information gained during their internship in academic publications or research projects?

No, you should not use any internal data or information for academic work without obtaining prior approval from the Additional Director.

Can an intern's internship be terminated by WCCB?

Yes, WCCB reserves the right to terminate an internship at any time without providing a specific reason.

What activities are interns at the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau expected to undertake?

You will perform various duties as directed by the Regional Deputy Director at regional offices or by the Additional Director at the bureau headquarters.

Is there any remuneration paid to interns at the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau?

No, there is no salary or stipend provided to interns.

How often does the selection committee for internship at the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau meet?

The selection committee meets twice a year to review applications.

Who decides the composition of the selection committee for internship at the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau?

The Additional Director decides the members of the selection committee.

What is the selection procedure for internship at the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau?

A selection committee reviews all applications, focusing primarily on academic performance. The committee meets twice a year, and their decision is final.

How does the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau assist the customs authorities in inspecting consignments of flora and fauna?

The bureau assists and advises customs officials in checking shipments of flora and fauna, ensuring compliance with the Wildlife Protection Act, CITES, and EXIM policies.

What role does the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau play in advising the government of India on issues relating to wildlife crimes?

The bureau provides expert guidance to the government regarding wildlife crimes, especially those with national or international implications and relevant legal policies.

Can law students apply for this internship?

Yes, law students interested in wildlife legislation and crime documentation are eligible to apply.

Are field visits part of this internship?

Field work depends on your department and the region. Mostly, it is desk research and documentation, but some regional offices may include field components.

Can I choose my preferred location for the internship?

Yes, you can mention your preferred WCCB office, but final allocation depends on availability and approval.