DDU-GKY trainees during the induction programme held at Noune Resort, Seithekema-A village on November 13. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Chümoukedima | November 13
The Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY), implemented under the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM) has trained 8,837 candidates since its inception in the state in 2018-19, with 6,129 securing placements across the country and internationally.
This was informed by Moa Sangtam, Joint Secretary, Rural Development and Mission Director, NSRLM, during his address at the Combine Induction Programme of DDU-GKY trainees in Nagaland held on November 13 at Noune Resort, Seithekema-A village. It was held under the theme “One Platform, New Skills, Countless Opportunities.”
Sangtam said that besides promoting Self Help Groups (SHGs) and strengthening livelihoods, NSRLM has been implementing DDU-GKY for the past eight years to create employment opportunities, particularly for youth from SHG families. The scheme covers skilling and placement.
Highlighting progress, he said that under the second phase rolled out in 2025-26, 481 candidates have been trained and are undergoing the placement process. Meanwhile, 800 candidates are undergoing training at 17 training centres, including one in Guwahati, across various trades. A total of 350 trainees under 10 Project Implementing Agencies (PIAs) attended the induction programme.
Sangtam said Nagaland has been allocated a training target of 7,625 candidates for 2025–2028, of which 1,423 have been allocated for placement with captive employers. The State Mission has allocated the remaining target to 19 PIAs across different sectors.
Sangtam observed that government jobs were already saturated and stressed the need to create alternative livelihood and employment opportunities. He said the trained youth would contribute to their individual wellbeing and the state’s wider economy. He urged trainees and stakeholders to take the initiative seriously and support its success.
Metsübo Jamir, Minister for Rural Development & SIRD, Government of Nagaland, urged the state’s youth to work harder, acquire the right skills, and strive to match national and global standards.
Speaking as special guest at an event, Jamir said youth empowerment is not just about providing jobs but about giving young people the confidence, skills, and ability to stand on their own feet and support their families.
Jamir noted with concern that better-skilled youth were leaving Nagaland and that few trainees were pursuing self-employment. He assured government support to those willing to venture into it.
He said Nagaland’s real strength lies in its youth, whose potential could make the state an economic powerhouse if adequately skilled.
Citing success stories shared at the programme, including Kevirunu Kera of Jakhama Block, now a Dining Steward with Cunard Cruise Line in the UK, Jamir said they showed how youth from small Nagaland villages could find opportunities in India and abroad through skill development.
He urged trainees to learn sincerely and for life, and to carry their skills with pride and professionalism.
He said the government would create the platform and provide skills, but trainees must show the willpower and commitment to seize the opportunities.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to youth empowerment, skilling, and employment generation, he wished the trainees success in their training and a bright future.
