Working towards enhancing employment opportunities for young people in Kerala, the state cabinet on January 14 approved the revised 'Connect to Work' norms
for youth scholarships. The new guidelines focus on skill development and financial assistance for eligible candidates. Let's have a look at the major changes introduced under revised norms. The applicants must be permanent residents of Kerala and should be aged between 18 and 30 years. Their family income should not exceed Rs 5 lakh. The Kerala government has emphasized the need of helping young people find work, especially by preparing them for competitive exams and providing vocational training. Only those who are either enrolled in recognised skill training programmes offered by government, public sector, or private institutions, or are preparing for competitive examinations (conducted by Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), Kerala Public Service Commission (KPSC), and other central and state recruitment bodies) will be eligible.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Connect to Work (Chief Minister’s Scholarship Scheme) |
| Objective | To support youth through skill development and financial assistance |
| Eligible Age Group | 18 to 30 years |
| Family Income Limit | Up to ₹5 lakh per annum |
| Residency Requirement | Permanent resident of Kerala |
| Eligible Beneficiaries | Youth undergoing skill training or preparing for competitive examinations |
| Scholarship Amount | ₹1,000 per month |
| Scholarship Duration | 12 months |
| Total Beneficiaries | Up to 5 lakh applicants |
| Mode of Payment | Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) |
| Implementing Authority | Government of Kerala |
| Application Mode | Online through the designated portal |
The employment department will oversee the Connect to Work scheme. Applications can be submitted online through the portal eemployment.kerala.gov.in. This initiative aims to boost confidence among youth, sustain their motivation for learning, and enhance their employability through skill development.
Therevised guidelines are a crucial step towards addressing youth unemployment in Kerala. By providing both financial support and access to skill training, the Kerala government aims to empower young individuals to secure meaningful employment.
