Dindayal Upadhyay Grameen Kaushalya Yojana

The Deendayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDUGKY) is a flagship skill development program launched under the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD). It aims to train rural youth, particularly from low-income households, in market-relevant skills to enhance employability and promote economic growth in rural India.

Skill development is a key driver of economic empowerment, especially in rural areas where limited access to quality education and employment opportunities often restricts growth. DDUGKY addresses these challenges by offering free, government-funded training programs tailored to industry demands.

The initiative stands out for its focus on job placement, ensuring that at least 75% of trained candidates secure employment. With a wide range of courses across various industries, DDUGKY equips participants with certifications that are recognised nationwide, paving the way for stable careers and financial independence.

Key objectives of DDUGKY

The primary objectives of DDUGKY include:

• Empowering rural youth: Providing skill development opportunities to individuals aged 15–35 years from rural backgrounds.
• Boosting employability: Offering training aligned with industry standards to enhance job readiness.
• Promoting financial inclusion: Ensuring rural households achieve economic stability through gainful employment.
• Encouraging entrepreneurship: Supporting trainees in starting their ventures with financial and skill-based assistance.
• Reducing rural unemployment: Bridging the gap between job seekers and employers in key sectors.

These objectives are instrumental in creating a skilled workforce that contributes to the nation’s economic growth while uplifting rural communities.

Eligible sectors and training courses

DDUGKY offers a diverse range of training programs tailored to industry needs. Below are some of the key sectors and courses available:

• Healthcare: Nursing assistants, medical lab technicians, and emergency medical responders.
• Construction: Masonry, plumbing, and electrical work.
• Information Technology (IT): Data entry, software testing, and hardware maintenance.
• Retail and e-commerce: Sales associates, inventory management, and customer service.
• Hospitality: Housekeeping, food and beverage services, and front office operations.
• Textiles and apparel: Tailoring, garment production, and fashion design.

These courses are designed to provide hands-on training, ensuring participants gain practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. Certifications awarded upon completion are recognised by employers across the country.

For DDUGKY trainees looking to start their own ventures, Bajaj Finserv offers tailored financial solutions. These loans come with flexible repayment options, competitive interest rates, and minimal documentation requirements.

Features of Bajaj Finserv loans:

• Flexible EMIs: Customisable repayment plans to suit individual financial capabilities.
• Quick processing: Hassle-free loan approvals with minimal paperwork.
• High loan amounts: Access to sufficient funds for setting up or expanding businesses.
• Eligibility criteria: Simple requirements, such as proof of identity, address, and income.

Rural entrepreneurs can use these loans to invest in equipment, expand operations, or meet working capital needs, ensuring sustained business growth.
Eligibility for Deendayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana

Eligibility criteria for DDUGKY

To enrol in DDUGKY, candidates must meet specific eligibility requirements. The table below provides a clear overview:

These criteria ensure that the program reaches those who need it most, particularly the underserved sections of society.

How to apply for DDUGKY training

Steps to apply

Applying for DDUGKY training is straightforward. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the official DDUGKY website: Start by accessing the program’s official portal to gather detailed information about available courses and training centres.
2. Create a profile: Register on the portal using your personal details, such as name, age, and contact information.
3. Check eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and choose a training program that matches your interests and qualifications.
4. Submit necessary documents: Upload essential documents, including proof of age, residency, educational qualifications, and income status.
5. Selection and enrolment: Once your application is verified, you will receive confirmation of your enrolment in the selected training course.
6. Attend training sessions: Participate in the training program as per the schedule provided by the training centre.

By following these steps, eligible candidates can kickstart their journey towards a rewarding career.

Stipend and placement guarantee

Placement and benefits

DDUGKY offers financial and employment support to ensure participants benefit from the program. The table below highlights key benefits:

These benefits not only incentivise participation but also provide a safety net for trainees during their learning period.

Key benefits for rural youth

DDUGKY has a transformative impact on the lives of rural youth. Some key benefits include:

• Enhanced employability: The program equips participants with market-relevant skills, increasing their chances of securing stable jobs.
• Financial stability: With guaranteed placements and stipends, trainees can achieve economic independence.
• Professional certifications: Recognised certifications improve credibility and open doors to better career opportunities.
• Reduced migration: By creating local employment opportunities, DDUGKY helps reduce rural-to-urban migration.
• Empowerment through entrepreneurship: The program encourages self-employment and provides support to aspiring entrepreneurs.

These benefits collectively contribute to the socio-economic development of rural communities.

Success stories from Grameen Kaushalya Yojana

Several individuals have benefitted from DDUGKY, achieving financial stability and career growth. For instance:

• Anita Devi from Bihar: After completing a tailoring course under DDUGKY, Anita started her own boutique, earning a steady income and supporting her family.
• Ramesh Kumar from Rajasthan: Trained as an electrician, Ramesh secured a job in a reputed construction company, transforming his family’s financial situation.

These success stories highlight the program’s impact on empowering rural youth to build better futures.

DDUGKY vs other skill schemes

The table below compares DDUGKY with other skill development initiatives: