MGNREGA AND WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT: A CASE STUDY FROM WEST BENGAL
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29121/shodhkosh.v5.i1.2024.3071Keywords:
Gender Empowerment Index, MGNREGA, Sustainable Development, Women’S EmpowermentAbstract [English]
This study analyses the impact of MGNREGA on women's empowerment in West Bengal by constructing a Gender Empowerment Index (GEI). Using primary data from 20 villages across five districts of West Bengal, the analysis reveals substantial disparities in empowerment at district and village levels. SPSS software was used to construct the women empowerment index (WEI) using PCA. While districts like Hooghly exhibit higher GEI scores at 0.66, suggesting progress in gender equity, areas such as Bankura score only 0.63. Village-level variations further underscore localised challenges and successes, with Antara (0.69) and Bhingole (0.67) showcasing notable progress. The findings highlight MGNREGA's potential to enhance women's economic participation, decision-making, and access to resources. However, targeted interventions are required in low-GEI areas, such as Gangnadia (0.60) and Sahapur (0.59), to address structural barriers and improve access to education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities. Policy recommendations include promoting skill-based employment, gender-specific quotas, and community-driven approaches to ensure inclusive development.
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