Navi Mumbai: Maharashtra has emerged as a leader in the implementation of the newly revised Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY) 2.0, launched by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, to boost rural employment and skill development.
Senior Ministry official Abu O. Saifi recently conducted a three-day review tour across Maharashtra to assess the progress of the scheme. During his visit, Saifi inspected multiple training centers, providing guidance to ensure the program’s effective execution.
As part of the visit, Saifi reviewed the RUDSET Training Center at Talegaon, Pune district. He interacted directly with trainees and representatives from Project Implementing Agencies, gaining insight into the ground-level implementation of the scheme. Praising the performance of the center, Saifi underscored the importance of creating sustainable employment opportunities for rural youth. However, he also identified some procedural shortcomings at one center and ordered immediate corrective measures, said a statement released by Raigad administration.
At a review meeting held at the State Management Cell in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, chaired by Chief Operating Officer Tushar Mali, discussions centered around the scheme’s current progress, challenges, and the directions for implementing the revised framework. Expressing satisfaction with Maharashtra’s preparations, Saifi affirmed that Maharashtra is at the forefront in the rollout of DDU-GKY 2.0.
The new phase of the scheme emphasizes stronger linkages with the industrial sector, the adoption of digital tracking systems, and a shift towards outcome-driven implementation. DDU-GKY 2.0 aims to offer skill-based employment opportunities to rural youth, thereby connecting the rural workforce to a dynamic and evolving job market.
“This visit was not merely a review, but a focused effort to strengthen institutional mechanisms and enhance transparency in monitoring processes,” Saifi remarked.
Reassuring the state of continued support from the Ministry, Saifi expressed confidence in Maharashtra’s capability to achieve the goals of sustainable and inclusive rural development, the statment further mentioned.
