ROLE OF MGNREGA IN REDUCING RURAL UNEMPLOYMENT IN JORHAT AND GOLAGHAT DISTRICTS

Abstract

This paper intends to investigate the role of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) in reducing rural unemployment in the Jorhat and Golaghat districts of Assam. MGNREGA, a flagship rural development program in India, aims to enhance livelihood security by providing at least 100 days of wage employment annually to every rural household. Assessing the effectiveness of MGNREGA in creating employment opportunities, improving wage distribution, and its overall socio-economic impact in these two districts is being focused in this paper.

For this paper a mixed-methods approach is adopted, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative data. Primary data were collected through structured surveys and in-depth interviews with beneficiaries and local officials. Secondary data were sourced from government reports, MGNREGA records, and other relevant documents. An in-depth analysis to compare employment trends, wage patterns, and the socio-economic outcomes of MGNREGA implementation in Jorhat and Golaghat is being employed in this paper.

The findings reveal significant improvements in rural employment and income levels due to MGNREGA. Both districts experienced a notable increase in employment days, with Golaghat showing slightly higher engagement levels. Wage distribution analysis indicates timely payments, although minor delays were noted in some cases. The socio-economic impact assessment highlights enhanced financial stability, reduced migration, and improved living standards among beneficiaries. However, challenges such as administrative bottlenecks, inadequate awareness, and variability in the quality of assets created were identified.

The paper concludes that MGNREGA has substantially contributed to reducing rural unemployment in Jorhat and Golaghat, although continuous monitoring and policy adjustments are necessary to address existing challenges. Recommendations include strengthening administrative capacity, enhancing awareness programs, and ensuring the quality and sustainability of assets created under MGNREGA.