Empowering Tribal Women Through MGNREGA: A Study of Keonjhar District of Odisha

Abstract

Keonjhar district is the central integrated tribal district of Odisha. The tribal families in the Keonjhar district, particularly women, were concerned about financial security. In 2006, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) programme was initiated in the district during its first implementation stage across the country. The effective investment of the tribal people, particularly tribal women in the Keonjhar district. In the tribal area of Keonjhar district, the scheme has become a vital source of income. The system allowed women to earn money independently and find a good livelihood. It has achieved more significant financial freedom for tribal women. On the whole economic situation of the household has enhanced due to the participation in the programme.As a woman, she began to earn money and she was able to gain respect for tribal women and establish a new identity within the family. As a result, the scheme improved the livelihood opportunities for tribal women in the Keonjhar district of Odisha.