Unemployment and economic distress have always been significant challenges, especially in rural India. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these problems, leading to a large-scale reverse migration of workers from urban centers to their native villages. To address this crisis, the Government of India launched the Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan (GKRA) in June 2020. This employment scheme aims to provide livelihood opportunities to migrant workers and rural residents while also developing essential infrastructure in their regions.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to the Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan Yojna, covering its eligibility criteria, benefits, application process, and more.
What is Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan?
The Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan (GKRA) is a ₹50,000 crore rural employment scheme launched by the Government of India on June 20, 2020. It is a time-bound program aimed at providing employment opportunities for migrant workers who returned to their home states due to the COVID-19 lockdown.
This scheme operates across 116 districts in six states that witnessed a high influx of returning migrant workers. The initiative focuses on creating public infrastructure, enhancing livelihoods, and strengthening rural economies.
Key Features of the Scheme:
- Targets migrant workers who lost jobs due to the pandemic.
- Covers 116 districts across six states.
- Aims to provide 125 days of wage-based employment.
- Funded with a budget of ₹50,000 crore.
- Focuses on 25 different types of public works, including road construction, water conservation, and rural housing.
- Collaboration between 12 ministries, ensuring multi-sectoral development.
Eligibility Criteria for Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan
To avail benefits under Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan, individuals must meet the following eligibility criteria:
1. Who Can Apply?
- Migrant workers who returned to their home villages due to the pandemic.
- Rural unemployed individuals seeking livelihood opportunities.
- People residing in one of the 116 identified districts across the six states.
2. Eligible States Covered Under the Scheme
The scheme is implemented in the following six states:
- Bihar
- Uttar Pradesh
- Madhya Pradesh
- Rajasthan
- Odisha
- Jharkhand
These states were chosen because they experienced a significant influx of returning migrant laborers from urban centers.
Benefits of Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan
The Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan provides multiple benefits for both migrant workers and rural communities.
1. Employment Opportunities
- Provides 125 days of wage employment to migrant workers and rural unemployed individuals.
- Ensures livelihood security during economic hardships.
2. Infrastructure Development
- The scheme funds rural infrastructure projects such as:
- Road construction
- Water conservation structures
- Rural housing
- Anganwadi centers
- Community sanitation complexes
3. Skill Development and Training
- The program offers skill training for workers, helping them secure long-term employment opportunities in various sectors.
- Focuses on self-reliance and entrepreneurship through training in different trades.
4. Boosts Rural Economy
- Strengthens local economies by increasing employment and improving public infrastructure.
- Helps farmers and rural businesses through irrigation projects and market connectivity.
5. Multi-Ministry Collaboration
- The program is implemented through 12 government ministries, ensuring efficient execution and better livelihood opportunities.
Application Process for Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan
The Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan is implemented at the Panchayat level, meaning eligible individuals do not need to go through complex online registration. However, the following steps outline how eligible workers can avail benefits under this scheme:
Step 1: Identify Eligible Workers
- Local Panchayat officials and state authorities prepare a list of eligible migrant workers and unemployed rural individuals.
- The data is collected from state governments and labor databases.
Step 2: Enrollment and Skill Mapping
- Workers are assigned jobs based on their skills and experience.
- A skill mapping survey is conducted to match workers with appropriate employment sectors.
Step 3: Work Allocation
- Jobs are allocated in 25 different rural sectors.
- Panchayats and state governments ensure the proper execution of these projects.
Step 4: Wage Payment Process
- Workers receive their wages directly in their bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
- The scheme follows MGNREGA wage rates for payment distribution.
Impact of Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan
Since its launch, Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan has positively impacted rural India in several ways:
- Employment Generation:
- Provided job opportunities to millions of migrant workers.
- Infrastructure Development:
- Constructed thousands of roads, wells, and irrigation projects.
- Women Empowerment:
- Many women workers were given employment and skill training.
- Improved Rural Economy:
- Strengthened local businesses and agricultural activities.
Despite its success, some challenges include bureaucratic delays, lack of awareness, and uneven implementation across states.
Also Read : Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana: Benefits, Features, And How To Apply
Conclusion
The Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan Yojna has been a crucial initiative in providing employment opportunities to migrant workers and rural residents during difficult times. By focusing on infrastructure development, skill training, and economic revitalization, this scheme has significantly contributed to India’s rural economy.
However, for long-term impact, the government must ensure better monitoring, faster wage disbursement, and more awareness campaigns. With continued efforts, GKRA can serve as a model for future employment programs, ensuring sustainable livelihood opportunities for India’s rural population.
FAQs
1. What is Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan?
Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan is a rural employment scheme launched in June 2020 to provide employment to migrant workers who returned to their villages during the COVID-19 pandemic.
2. Which states are covered under Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan?
The scheme is implemented in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Odisha, and Jharkhand.
3. How many days of employment does the scheme provide?
The scheme provides 125 days of wage employment to eligible workers.
4. Who is eligible for the scheme?
- Migrant workers who returned to their home villages.
- Rural unemployed people residing in one of the 116 districts covered.
5. How are wages paid under this scheme?
Wages are paid through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the worker’s bank account.
6. Do workers need to register online for Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan?
No, registration is done at the Panchayat level, and eligible workers are automatically enrolled.
7. What kind of work is provided under this scheme?
The scheme covers road construction, irrigation projects, water conservation, housing, sanitation, and skill training.
8. How does this scheme benefit the rural economy?
It boosts employment, improves infrastructure, and strengthens local businesses.
9. Can women participate in this scheme?
Yes, women are actively encouraged to participate in the scheme.
10. Where can I get more information about the scheme?
For official updates, visit https://rural.nic.in or contact your local Panchayat office.
