Impact assessment of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) in the Laitlyngkot region

Abstract

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) has been a pivotal element of India's rural development strategy since its inception. This study aims to assess the socio-economic advancements facilitated by MGNREGA, alongside identifying the challenges, shortcomings, and gaps in its implementation.

Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates qualitative insights from field observations and interviews with quantitative analysis of the primary data. Key factors such as socio-economic impacts and the challenges, shortcomings, and gaps in the program's implementation are evaluated to ascertain the effectiveness of MGNREGA in rural areas.

Preliminary findings indicate that by guaranteeing 100 days of work annually, MGNREGA has significantly enhanced the livelihood security of numerous households, particularly those from marginalized groups. Consequently, household incomes have risen, food security has improved, and access to essential services such as housing and sanitary facilities has increased. However, the study also highlights several challenges and deficiencies that hinder the program's effectiveness. These include discrepancies in the wage payment system and delays in wage disbursements.