The Ministry of Rural Development runs the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY), a scheme that offers free skill training to rural youth and connects them to jobs. Launched on 25 September 2014 under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission, it targets young people from marginalised and vulnerable households in villages. The programme has been revised into a 2.0 framework to align with changing job market demands and place stronger emphasis on actual employment outcomes.
Key facts
- Launched: 25 September 2014
- Target age group: 15 to 35 years
- Youth trained as of June 2026: 18.45 lakh
- Youth placed in jobs as of June 2026: 12.35 lakh
- Implemented by: Ministry of Rural Development under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM)
- Revised framework: DDU-GKY 2.0, with focus on industry-led training and digital systems
What the scheme offers
DDU-GKY provides placement-linked skill training that aims to create lasting livelihoods for rural youth. The training is free and covers various trades such as tourism and hospitality, electrical work, sewing and cutting, and healthcare multipurpose roles. Upon completing training, beneficiaries receive support in securing employment, not just a certificate. The scheme recognises that rural families often depend on agriculture and seasonal income, so it provides an alternative pathway to earn year-round.
How the revised 2.0 framework works
The updated DDU-GKY 2.0 places greater emphasis on involving industry directly in designing and delivering training. Rather than training disconnected from employer needs, the revised approach ensures that what is taught matches what employers actually seek. The framework strengthens partnerships with companies, organises job fairs and campus placements, and conducts industry consultations to keep training relevant.
A key addition is the end-to-end digital system that tracks beneficiaries from training through assessment, certification, monitoring and employment. This allows the programme to identify which trainees secure jobs, how long they stay employed and whether they progress to better roles. Post-placement support has been strengthened, meaning trainees do not simply get a job and then lose all connection to the scheme. The focus is upskilling and reskilling so that workers can advance their careers over time.
How it connects to the National Rural Livelihoods Mission
DDU-GKY operates within the broader National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), which aims to improve livelihoods across rural India. The mission creates self-help groups and village-level support structures. Women in these groups, called Jeevika Sakhis in some states, often encourage young people to enrol in DDU-GKY. This integration means that training is embedded within existing community networks rather than operating in isolation.
What this means for rural youth and families
For young people in villages where farm income is unpredictable, the scheme offers a concrete way to acquire marketable skills without cost. Beneficiaries aged 15 to 35 can learn trades in high-demand sectors and move directly into employment. Many go on to earn significantly more than agricultural or seasonal labour. Some, like one trainee who moved to Dubai as an electrician, eventually earn several times their starting salary. Others use their first job as a foundation to return home and start small enterprises, creating additional local employment.
For families, the scheme reduces dependence on a single source of income. When a young person gains steady employment through DDU-GKY, household income becomes more reliable. Families can then invest in education for younger siblings or in assets. The scheme also addresses gender disparity, as many Self-Help Groups actively encourage their members’ children to participate.
Who can apply
The scheme targets youth from marginalised and vulnerable rural households. Young people aged 15 to 35 are eligible. Those interested typically learn about the scheme through Self-Help Groups, village facilitators or local government offices. No entry qualifications are specified, though the source material indicates that individuals of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, can enrol and benefit.
Programme scale and reach
As of June 2026, the scheme has trained 18.45 lakh (18 lakh 45 thousand) rural youth, of whom 12.35 lakh have been placed in jobs. This suggests a placement rate of around 67 per cent. The programme operates across India and is implemented by state-level authorities in partnership with the Ministry of Rural Development.