The year 2020 witnessed a massive exodus of migrant workers from cities back to their villages. The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns left many jobless and struggling. To address this crisis and revive the rural economy, the Government of India launched the Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan (GKRA) – a mission aimed at empowering and providing livelihood opportunities to these returning migrants and rural citizens.
Understanding the Abhiyaan: Objectives and Scope
GKRA is a large-scale rural public works scheme. Launched in June 2020, it focuses on creating employment opportunities in villages across India. The primary objectives are:
- Generating employment: The Abhiyaan guarantees 125 days of work to eligible individuals. This provides much-needed income security, especially for those who lost their jobs in urban areas.
- Boosting rural infrastructure: The scheme identifies various infrastructure projects within villages that require manpower. This not only creates jobs but also leads to the development of essential infrastructure in rural areas.
- Encouraging local participation: GKRA prioritizes employing local workers for the designated projects. This strengthens the rural economy by circulating money within villages.
The scope of the Abhiyaan is vast, encompassing a wide range of infrastructure projects. Some key areas include:
- Construction of public facilities: Community sanitation complexes, Gram Panchayat buildings, and Anganwadi centers are some examples.
- Rural connectivity: Projects under schemes like PMGSY (Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana) for developing rural roads and Border road works fall under GKRA.
- Water resource management: Construction of wells, canals, and undertaking water conservation initiatives are crucial projects covered by the Abhiyaan.
- Sustainable development: Activities like plantation drives, vermicomposting, and construction of cattle sheds promote eco-friendly practices and create job opportunities.
Impact and Achievements: Empowering Rural Communities
Since its launch, the Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan has made significant strides in achieving its goals. Here’s a look at its impact:
- Employment generation: Millions of rural citizens, including returning migrants, have benefited from the scheme. They’ve received guaranteed wages and improved their financial situation.
- Rural infrastructure development: The Abhiyaan has contributed significantly to the development of rural infrastructure. This has not only created jobs but also improved the quality of life in villages.
- Skilling and upskilling: While the primary focus is on providing employment, some projects within GKRA offer skill development opportunities. This can help individuals gain new skills and enhance their employability in the long run.
Although specific data on the total number of beneficiaries in 2024 might not be readily available yet, news reports suggest that over 25,000 workers across 116 districts benefited from the scheme in previous years.
Challenges and the Road Ahead: Ensuring Sustainability
Despite its success, the Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan faces some challenges:
- Project identification and planning: Efficient identification and timely execution of suitable projects remain crucial for sustained employment generation.
- Skilling for long-term benefits: While immediate employment is essential, integrating skill development programs could equip beneficiaries for better future job prospects.
- Ensuring transparency and accountability: Effective monitoring and grievance redressal mechanisms are vital to ensure transparency and address any concerns related to wage payments or project implementation.
Looking ahead, the Abhiyaan’s success hinges on addressing these challenges. Streamlining project identification, incorporating skill development opportunities, and emphasizing transparency can ensure the program’s long-term sustainability and empower rural communities for a brighter future.
GKRA: A Beacon of Hope for Rural India
The Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan has emerged as a beacon of hope for rural India. It addresses the immediate need for employment and income generation while contributing to infrastructure development. By overcoming existing challenges and focusing on skill development, the Abhiyaan has the potential to transform rural India, making it a more prosperous and empowered place.
