The Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDUGKY) is a flagship program of the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, aimed at transforming the lives of rural youth by equipping them with market-driven skills. The Jammu & Kashmir Youth Development Forum (JKYDF) is proud to be a trusted implementation partner of DDUGKY in the region, dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through sustainable livelihood opportunities.

Through this initiative, JKYDF offers free, high-quality skill training programs tailored to current industry demands, including sectors such as retail, hospitality, healthcare, construction, and IT-enabled services. The training is designed not only to develop technical skills but also to enhance communication, personality, and workplace readiness—ensuring a holistic approach to employment.

DDUGKY particularly targets rural youth between the ages of 15 and 35, with a focus on women, minorities, and those from economically weaker sections. Trainees receive free training materials, uniforms, meals, and a stipend, which makes it easier for families to support their participation. Upon successful completion, JKYDF facilitates job placement with reputed employers across India and offers post-placement support to help the youth transition into the workforce confidently.

With modern training infrastructure, experienced faculty, and strong industry tie-ups, JKYDF has already helped thousands of young individuals in Jammu & Kashmir find direction, purpose, and financial independence. The DDUGKY program continues to be a powerful tool for bridging the gap between rural talent and urban employment, and JKYDF remains committed to building a skilled and empowered youth population across the Union Territory.