Kerala Finance Minister K N Balagopal unveiled the state Budget 2026–27 on Thursday, January 29, highlighting a major initiative for young residents.

The government has set aside ₹400 crore for the Connect to Work scheme, which provides ₹1,000 monthly financial support to educated youth during periods of skill training or preparation for competitive exams.

Who can apply

The Cabinet recently revised the scheme’s guidelines, setting a ₹5 lakh annual family income limit. Applicants must be permanent residents of Kerala and aged 18 to 30 years on the date of application.

Eligible individuals include those enrolled in skill development programmes at Central or State government departments, public sector undertakings, subsidiary institutions, recognised or deemed universities, and approved private institutions.

Candidates preparing for competitive exams such as UPSC, State PSC, Service Selection Boards, Army, Navy, Air Force, banks, railways, or other central and state recruitment agencies are also eligible.

Scholarship allocation and benefits

The scheme will support the first five lakh eligible applicants, aiming to build youth confidence, maintain learning motivation, and enhance job opportunities through skill development.

The Employment Department will oversee implementation. Applications can be submitted online at eemployment.kerala.gov.in.

Scholarships will be directly transferred to beneficiaries’ bank accounts via Direct Benefit Transfer, at ₹1,000 per month for 12 months.