October 2026: 70,000 rural youth set for placement-linked training under DDU-GKY 2.0

Around 70,000 rural youth across 24 States and Union Territories are expected to begin skill training under DDU-GKY 2.0 from October 2026. The Ministry of Rural Development said 2,015 batches are planned, with training linked to employment opportunities. The scheme covers courses lasting three to 12 months, aligned with the National Skill Qualification Framework. States must complete target allocations to implementing agencies by October 31, 2026, as the Centre accelerates the rollout.