Skill development has emerged as a central component of rural development in India, aiming to enhance employability, raise incomes, and reduce poverty by equipping rural youth and workers with market-relevant skills. Several skill development programmes are being implemented by the central and state governments to address the diverse needs of rural populations, including agricultural workers, landless laborers, women, and youth. These programmes focus on both farm and non-farm skills, self-employment, and wage employment, thereby supporting inclusive and sustainable rural growth. One of the flagship initiatives is the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, which provides short-term skill training and certification to unemployed youth and school dropouts, including those from rural areas. The programme is demand-driven and aligned with the National Skills Qualification Framework, ensuring standardized skill levels across sectors. Training is provided in areas such as construction, retail, healthcare, electronics, agriculture, and allied activities. Recognition of Prior Learning is an important feature, allowing rural workers with informal skills to obtain formal certification and improve their employment prospects. The Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana is a major rural-focused skill development programme targeting poor rural youth aged 15