How much is it easy to asssemble PICkit2 ? is it more reliable than PicPgm Ckt ? are there less chances for errors in case of PICkit2 ?
A diy PK2 clone is very easy to assemble, providing you stick to a circuit using standard components, not a smd one.
The biggest problem for most folk is programmig the 2550 chip, but as you have a programmer that should not be a problem.
A 680uh choke is sometimes a problem to source,depending on your area, but most other parts are very common.
You are better using a pcb to give good long term reliability.
It use Microchips free software, so does not get any better than that.
However you have not said if you have been able to program any chip with the PicPgm other than this Pic24 chip ??
Please let us know as it does help identify your problem.
I also noticed one thing, that when i measure voltage on crystal oscillator pins are 1.45 v and 0 v ,when microcontroller PCB is alone.
When i attached ICSP cable from microcontroller PCB to PicPgm USB programmer. the Voltage becomes zero on both crystal Pins.
What is Wrong ?
Assume after fitting the Vcap you have tried to program it again, same error ??
Re the crystal voltage, would not normally measure those pins with a voltmeter, a scope is really needed.
Would assume that when the programmer is connected it forces Mclre into reset so stopping various functions/ port conditions.
Possibly more important, in your icsp circuit have you got
any other circuitry connected to Mclre, PGD and PGC pins ?