Rural Development in India
An Introduction to Rural Development Rural development in India has been a policy
and planning priority since India's independence. More than 65% of India's
population lives in rural areas and the sector plays a significant role in the country's
economy and society. Rural development has many dimensions, including economic
development, public health, infrastructure and agriculture. Despite progress over the
years, challenges remain and there is a need for continued reform and strategic
planning at the level. Early measures included the Community Development
Programme (1952) and the Panchayati Raj System (1959), which focused on
institutionalising governance and strengthening local institutions. These efforts are
centralised and focus on productive agriculture, improving rural infrastructure and
promoting community participation.
The Rural Development Bank (NABARD) addresses the issue of access to credit for
rural entrepreneurs and farmers. The change came in the new century with the
enactment of the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) in 2005, later
renamed as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act
(MGNREGA). This bill provides legal protection for rural families to receive 100 days’
wages, which in turn impacts rural employment and income. Measures to increase
agricultural productivity include making high-quality seeds, irrigation facilities and
modern agricultural implements available.
Government programmes such as the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana
(PMKSY) aim to improve water quality in buildings, while soil health management
programmes promote permaculture practices. Skill development programmes like
Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY) aim to equip rural
youth with skills related to different industries. The aim of these efforts is to diversify
income and reduce dependency on agriculture. Its key focus areas are transport,
electricity and healthcare. Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) has played
a major role in improving connectivity for rural people by building all-weather roads
and facilitating jobs and services. While providing 24x7 power supply to every family.
In addition, Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) has improved sanitation, improved
infrastructure at home and in communities and improved overall sanitation. It has
played a major role. The Public Distribution System (PDS) contributes to food
security by ensuring availability of essential commodities at affordable prices.
Programs such as the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) aim to promote health
services, especially in remote and underserved areas. Measures to improve literacy
and gender equality. The aim of providing midday meals in schools under the midday
meal scheme is to increase enrolment and attendance. Persistence of poverty and
inequality remains a major problem.
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