Gujarat : 1,268 Rural Youth Get Jobs Through DDU-GKY

GANDHINAGAR : For thousands of young people in Gujarat’s rural and remote areas, skill training is emerging as a pathway out of economic uncertainty. The Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY) helped 1,268 rural youth secure employment during 2025-26, with successful trainees earning a minimum monthly salary of Rs.10,000.

Implemented through the Gujarat Livelihood Promotion Company Limited (GLPC) under the state’s rural development framework, the scheme is designed to make rural youth financially independent by connecting them with job-oriented skills and employment opportunities.

The programme offers free training in more than 40 Sector Skill Council-approved sectors, including logistics, healthcare, retail, solar technology, BPO, web designing and electrical work. Residential trainees receive accommodation and meals at no cost, while non-residential candidates are provided travel allowances through Direct Bank Transfer.

Trainees also receive free uniforms, tablets, identity cards and study materials, making the programme accessible to youth from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Special priority is given to SC, ST, minority, women and Divyang candidates.

Importantly, DDU-GKY’s support does not end with placement. Beneficiaries receive technical guidance and post-placement assistance for up to 12 months, helping them adjust to their workplaces and build sustainable careers.

The transformation is reflected in the experience of Dakshaben Damor, from Kankaliya village in Mahisagar district. Coming from a financially constrained family, she underwent training as a Retail Sales Executive, including computer, IT and soft-skills training.

“This scheme has given a golden opportunity to a girl like me from a remote area to become Atmanirbhar,” Dakshaben said.

She added that she had earlier hesitated to speak in English or Hindi but now communicates confidently in both languages.

With women’s participation showing encouraging results, DDU-GKY is increasingly becoming a crucial avenue for rural employment, skill development and self-reliance among Gujarat’s youth.

Rural youth seeking information can approach their Taluka Panchayat office or District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) for details about training and placement opportunities.