“Trends and Challenges in Rural Employment through Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana: A Study from 2014 to 2022”

Abstract

The Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY) was launched in 2014 to enhance the employability of rural youth in India by providing skill development training and improving job placement opportunities. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the DDU-GKY scheme through a comprehensive analysis of secondary data from 2014-15 to 2021-22. The research focuses on two primary metrics: the number of candidates trained and the number placed in employment. Using quantitative methods, the study examines trends and variations in training and placement outcomes over the specified period. Descriptive statistics and trend analysis are employed to understand the overall performance of the scheme. The study also tests the hypothesis that the effectiveness of the DDU-GKY scheme in terms of placement rates has shown significant variation over the years. The findings reveal that while the DDU-GKY scheme has been successful in training a substantial number of rural youth, the placement rates have fluctuated significantly. This variability indicates that while the scheme meets its training objectives, consistent job placement remains a challenge. The research highlights the need for targeted improvements in program implementation, better alignment with market needs, and enhanced support for both candidates and trainers. This study contributes to the understanding of large-scale skill development initiatives by providing empirical evidence on the performance of the DDU-GKY scheme. The results offer valuable insights for policymakers, implementers, and stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of addressing the identified challenges to improve the scheme’s effectiveness and achieve better employment outcomes for rural youth. Future research should consider qualitative aspects and regional variations to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of skill development programs.