Journey from a small village in MP's Sidhi to Tamil Nadu—how training under DDU-GKY transformed Pooja's life
Sidhi: The success story of Pooja Singh, a resident of Tengwa Gram Panchayat in MP's Sidhi district, proves that the course of one's life can be transformed through proper guidance, skill training, and determination. Having received training under the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY), Pooja Singh has now become financially self-reliant and serves as a source of inspiration for her family.
Pooja learned about DDU-GKY
Pooja Singh's family had long struggled with financial hardship. Sustaining the family was difficult due to limited income and a lack of stable employment opportunities. Amidst this, her mother joined the local 'Durga Self-Help Group.' Through the group's meetings, Pooja learned about the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY), which is implemented under the Livelihood Mission.
Pooja underwent skill training
Seizing this opportunity, Pooja underwent skill training through ACME, a Project Implementation Agency (PIA) associated with the scheme. During the training, she acquired technical proficiency as well as the behavioral and professional skills required in the workplace, thereby opening up new employment avenues for her.
Pooja was selected by a mobile manufacturing company in Tamil Nadu
Upon completing her training, Pooja Singh was selected by a mobile manufacturing company based in Tamil Nadu. She is currently employed there, earning a monthly salary of approximately ₹16,000; with overtime pay, her monthly income reaches around Rs 24,000. Through her earnings, she is not only strengthening her family's financial position but also confidently shaping her own future.
Pooja's appeal to the youth
Pooja Singh states that had she not received the training opportunity through the DDU-GKY scheme, she likely would not have reached this milestone. She has urged the youth—especially young women from rural areas—to avail themselves of the government's skill development schemes and realize their dreams.
Pooja Singh's success exemplifies the significant role played by the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana—implemented through the Madhya Pradesh State Rural Livelihood Mission—in connecting rural youth with employment and fostering self-reliance. This story serves as an inspiring example of rural women's empowerment, skill development, and the vision of a self-reliant India.