DDU-GKY

Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY)

Overview

The Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY) is a flagship skill development program of the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), Government of India.
Launched in 2014, it aims to transform the lives of rural youth aged 15–35 years from poor families by providing them with demand-driven skill training and linking them to sustainable wage employment opportunities.

It is a part of the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), with a special focus on the “Placement Linked Skill Training Program” model.

Key Objectives

• To empower rural youth by providing high-quality skill training.

• To create a skilled workforce that matches the demands of industry.

• To offer job opportunities in India and abroad.

• To ensure social inclusion, with a mandate to cover women, SC/ST, and minority groups.

• To enable career progression through long-term skilling and certifications.

Target Beneficiaries

• Rural youth from poor families (identified under the SECC – Socio-Economic Caste Census).

• Priority is given to:

  • Women candidates

  • SC/ST communities

  • Persons with Disabilities (PwDs)

  • Minorities

Unique Features of DDU-GKY

1. Placement Linked Training – Training is directly connected with assured job placements.

2. Curriculum Aligned with NSQF – Courses are based on National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF).

3. Minimum 576 hours training – Ensuring deep, hands-on skill learning.

4. Focus on Employability – Soft skills, computer literacy, English communication included.

5. Partnership with Industry – Training partners & employers collaborate for better outcomes.

6. Post-placement Support – Candidates receive help in adjusting to their new jobs.

7. Global Opportunities – Some training programs prepare youth for overseas jobs.

Funding Pattern

• The scheme is fully funded by the Government of India.

• Funding support is provided for training, boarding, lodging, uniforms, and learning materials so that candidates can learn without financial burden.

DDU-GKY Training Process

1. Mobilization & Counseling – Identifying and motivating eligible youth.

2. Skill Training – Hands-on practical sessions with certified trainers.

3. Assessment & Certification – NSDC/SSC-based assessments for credibility.

4. Job Placement – Guaranteed placement support in reputed companies.

5. Post-placement Tracking – Support for up to 12 months after placement.

Impact of DDU-GKY

• Uplifting rural families by making youth financially independent.

• Bridging the skill gap between rural job-seekers and industry demand.

• Creating a pathway from poverty to prosperity for millions of young Indians.

✅ In short:
DDU-GKY is not just a training scheme—it’s a career building and life transformation initiative for rural youth, opening doors to new opportunities in India and abroad.