Assignment

Rural Development: Administration and Planning

Submitted By: Submitted To:

Aditya Kumar Maurya Prof. Pradeep Kumar

Roll No. - 19605

B. Tech. (Final Year)

Branch – Information Technology

 Assignment 1
1. What do you understand by rural development? What is it's need and importance?

Ans - Rural development usually refers to a method of improving the quality of life and financial
well-being of individuals, specifically living in populated and remote areas. Rural development
remains at the core of the country's overall development. More than two-thirds of the country's
population depends on agriculture for their livelihood, and one-third of rural India is still below
the poverty line. Therefore, it is important for the government to be productive and provide
enough facilities to increase their standard of living. Rural development is a term that focuses on
measures taken to develop rural areas to improve the economy. However, few areas that require
more focused attention and new initiatives are:

• Education

• Public health and hygiene

• Empowerment of women

• Infrastructure development (electricity, irrigation, etc.)

• Facilities for agricultural extension and research

• Availability of credit

•Employment opportunities

Rural development is important not only for the majority of the population living in the
countryside, but also for the overall economic expansion of the nation.

Rural development is considered of considerable importance in the country today than in the old
days in the process of the nation's evolution. It is a strategy that seeks to achieve better and
productivity, higher socio-economic equality and ambition and stability in social and economic
development.

2. Name the various programs launched by GOI in the area of social security.

Ans - The three social security schemes introduced by the Government of India are as following:
  Atal Pension Yojana
 Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana
 Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana

Atal Pension Yojana

The Government of India has introduced Atal Pension Yojana in order to bring in labours of
unorganised sectors under the National Pension Scheme (NPS) administered by the Pension
Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA). The scheme is meant to provide old age
income security for the workers of the unorganised sector who has no pension provision.
Enrolment to the scheme can be done through LIC and various banks

Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana

Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana is an accident insurance scheme introduced by the
Government of India. The plan is meant to provide financial protection against unforeseen events
like death and impairments at negligible cost.

Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana

Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana of Indian Government is one of the plans offered
under Jan Suraksha scheme. Basically, the plan comes with a provision of life cover. The
government has offered this term plan to provide financial protection to the family of the
subscriber at a nominal premium.

3. Explain the features of the scheme- PMKSY in detail.( Pradhan mantri krishi sinchayee
yojna)

Ans - Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) is a flagship scheme of the
Government of India for the development of irrigation in the country. It was launched in 2015
with an aim to provide assured irrigation to all agricultural lands by 2024.

The scheme has the following features:

 It is a centrally sponsored scheme with a total outlay of Rs. 50,000 crores.

 It is implemented by the states through their irrigation departments.
 The scheme covers all types of irrigation systems, including major, medium, minor, and
micro irrigation.
  It focuses on improving the efficiency of irrigation systems and on promoting water
conservation.
 It also provides for the development of rainfed areas.

The scheme has been very successful in achieving its objectives. As of 2022, it has helped to
provide assured irrigation to over 100 million hectares of land. This has led to an increase in
agricultural production and incomes, and has also helped to improve food security in the country.

The following are some of the specific features of the PMKSY:

 Convergence of investments in irrigation at the field level: The scheme aims to achieve
convergence of investments in irrigation at the field level by bringing together different
stakeholders, such as the government, farmers, and private sector. This will help to
improve the efficiency of irrigation and reduce the cost of water.
 Expansion of cultivable area under assured irrigation: The scheme aims to expand the
cultivable area under assured irrigation by constructing new water sources, repairing and
renovating existing water sources, and improving the efficiency of irrigation systems.
This will help to increase agricultural production and incomes.
 Improvement of on-farm water use efficiency: The scheme aims to improve on-farm
water use efficiency by promoting the adoption of water-saving technologies, such as
drip and sprinkler irrigation. This will help to reduce the wastage of water and improve
the productivity of irrigated land.
 Enhancement of recharge of aquifers: The scheme aims to enhance the recharge of
aquifers by promoting water conservation practices, such as rainwater harvesting and
watershed management. This will help to improve the availability of water for irrigation
and other purposes.
 Introduction of sustainable water conservation practices: The scheme aims to introduce
sustainable water conservation practices by exploring the feasibility of reusing treated
municipal waste water for peri-urban agriculture and attracting greater private investment
in precision irrigation system. This will help to ensure the long-term sustainability of
irrigation in the country.

4. Write short note on-

A. eNAM : - eNAM, or the National Agriculture Market, is an online trading platform for
agricultural commodities in India. It was launched by the Government of India in 2016 with the
aim of providing a unified national market for agricultural commodities.

eNAM connects all the regulated agricultural markets (mandis) in India through a single
electronic platform. This allows farmers to sell their produce to buyers from all over the country,
and it also helps to ensure that farmers get the best possible price for their produce

Here are some of the benefits of eNAM:

 It provides a unified national market for agricultural commodities, which helps to

improve price discovery and ensure that farmers get the best possible price for their
produce.
 It helps to reduce transaction costs for farmers and traders, which can lead to increased
efficiency in the agricultural market.
 It provides a platform for farmers to sell their produce directly to buyers, which can help
to reduce the role of middlemen and improve the bargaining power of farmers.
 It helps to improve transparency in the agricultural market, which can help to reduce
corruption and ensure that farmers are treated fairly.
 It helps to promote competition in the agricultural market, which can lead to lower prices
for consumers.

B. PMFBY :- Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is a crop insurance scheme
launched by the Government of India in 2016. It is a comprehensive insurance scheme that
covers all notified crops in the country. The scheme is designed to provide financial protection to
farmers against crop losses due to natural calamities, such as drought, flood, hailstorm, and pests.
The PMFBY is a mandatory scheme for all farmers who avail institutional credit from banks.
However, it is also open to all farmers who do not avail institutional credit. The premium for the
scheme is shared between the central government, the state governments, and the farmers. The
farmers' share of the premium is subsidized by the central government.

The PMFBY is a major initiative of the Government of India to protect the interests of farmers
and to ensure food security in the country. The scheme has been a major success and has helped
to provide financial protection to farmers against crop losses.
Here are some of the benefits of the PMFBY:

 It provides financial protection to farmers against crop losses due to natural calamities.
 It helps to stabilize the income of farmers and ensure their continued participation in
agriculture.
 It encourages farmers to adopt modern agricultural practices and improve productivity.
 It helps to reduce the risk of farmer suicides

C. PMJJBY :- Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) is a government-backed

life insurance scheme that was launched in 2015. The scheme is open to all Indian citizens
between the ages of 18 and 50 who have a savings bank account. The premium for the scheme is
Rs. 436 per year and is paid in one installment.

The scheme provides a life cover of Rs. 2 lakhs in case of death of the insured due to any reason.
The cover is renewable every year and there is no medical examination required to enroll in the
scheme.

The PMJJBY is a very popular scheme and has been a major success. As of 2023, over 50 crore
people have enrolled in the scheme. The scheme has helped to provide financial security to
millions of families and has helped to reduce the financial burden on families in the event of a
death.

Here are some of the benefits of the PMJJBY:

 It provides a life cover of Rs. 2 lakhs in case of death of the insured.

 The premium is very affordable at Rs. 436 per year.
 There is no medical examination required to enroll in the scheme.
 The scheme is renewable every year.

The PMJJBY is a great way to provide financial security for your family. If you are an Indian
citizen between the ages of 18 and 50, I encourage you to enroll in the scheme.
D. PMAY-G :- Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin (PMAY-G) is a government-sponsored
housing scheme for rural India. It was launched in 2015 with the aim of providing pucca
(concrete) houses with basic amenities to all rural households by 2022.

The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) through
the state governments and union territories. The central government provides financial assistance
to the states and UTs to construct houses under the scheme.

The beneficiaries of the scheme are rural households who are below the poverty line (BPL) and
those who live in kutcha (mud) houses.

The PMAY-G has been a major success. As of 2023, over 2.5 crore houses have been
constructed under the scheme. The scheme has helped to improve the living conditions of
millions of rural households and has helped to reduce poverty in rural India.

Here are some of the benefits of the PMAY-G:

 It provides pucca houses with basic amenities to rural households.

 It helps to improve the living conditions of rural households.
 It helps to reduce poverty in rural India.
 It helps to promote social and economic development in rural India.

The PMAY-G is a major step forward for rural India. It has the potential to revolutionize the way
that rural households live and it can help to improve the quality of life for millions of people.

5. Explain the features of MGNREGA in detail

Ans - The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) is a
social security legislation enacted by the Government of India in 2005. The Act provides for a
legal guarantee of at least 100 days of unskilled manual employment in a financial year to rural
households whose adult members are willing to do unskilled manual work at the prevailing
minimum wage rate.

The MGNREGA is one of the largest social security programs in the world. It has been
implemented in all 29 states and 7 union territories of India. As of 2023, the MGNREGA has
provided employment to over 500 million people and has generated an estimated Rs. 10 lakh
crores (US$130 billion) in wages.

The MGNREGA has several important features. These include:

 Legal guarantee of employment: The MGNREGA provides a legal guarantee of at least

100 days of unskilled manual employment in a financial year to rural households whose
adult members are willing to do unskilled manual work at the prevailing minimum wage
rate.
 Employment to all: The MGNREGA is open to all rural households, irrespective of their
social or economic status.
 Wages: The wages under the MGNREGA are paid at the prevailing minimum wage rate.
The minimum wage rate is fixed by the state governments and is revised periodically.
 Accountability: The MGNREGA is implemented by the state governments and union
territories. The state governments are responsible for the planning, implementation, and
monitoring of the scheme.
 Transparency: The MGNREGA is a transparent scheme. The information about the
scheme is available in the public domain.

6. What are the objectives of rural development?

Ans - Rural development is important for a number of reasons. First, it can help to reduce
poverty and inequality. Second, it can help to improve the quality of life of the rural population.
Third, it can help to promote economic growth and development. Fourth, it can help to reduce
the gap between rural and urban areas.

Here are some of the specific objectives of rural development:

 Increase agricultural production and productivity: This can be done by providing farmers

with access to improved seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation facilities. It can also be done by
promoting the use of modern agricultural practices.
 Promote rural industrialization: This can be done by providing financial assistance to
rural entrepreneurs and by setting up industrial clusters in rural areas.
 Provide employment opportunities: This can be done by promoting the development of
small and medium enterprises in rural areas. It can also be done by providing training and
skills development programs to rural youth.
  Improve infrastructure: This includes improving roads, bridges, water supply, and
sanitation facilities in rural areas.
 Provide basic amenities: This includes providing education, health care, and drinking
water facilities in rural areas.
 Reduce poverty and inequality: This can be done by providing financial assistance to the
poor and by promoting economic growth and development in rural areas.
 Promote social and economic justice: This includes ensuring that all people have equal
access to opportunities and resources.

Rural development is a complex and challenging task. However, it is an important goal for many
countries. It can help to improve the lives of millions of people and promote economic growth
and development.

7. Write a short note on- Gurgaon experiment of rural development program.

Ans - The Gurgaon Experiment was a rural development program that was implemented in
Gurgaon district of Punjab (now Haryana) in India in the early 1920s. The program was initiated
by F.L. Brayne, the then Deputy Commissioner of Gurgaon, with the objective of improving the
living conditions of the rural population in the district.

The Gurgaon Experiment was based on the following principles:

 Participation of the people: The program was designed to involve the people of the
villages in the planning and implementation of the development activities.
 Use of local resources: The program made use of local resources, such as manpower,
materials, and skills, to the maximum extent possible.
 Sustainability: The program was designed to be sustainable in the long term.

The Gurgaon Experiment was a success. It helped to improve the living conditions of the rural
population in Gurgaon district in a number of ways. These included:

 Increased agricultural production.

 Improved health and sanitation
 Increased literacy
  Improved infrastructure

The Gurgaon Experiment was a pioneering effort in rural development. It laid the foundation for
many of the rural development programs that were implemented in India in the later years.

Here are some of the key features of the Gurgaon Experiment:

 It was a comprehensive program that covered all aspects of rural development, including
agriculture, health, education, and infrastructure.
 It was based on the principle of participation, with the villagers themselves being
involved in the planning and implementation of the development activities.
 It made use of local resources to the maximum extent possible.
 It was designed to be sustainable in the long term.

The Gurgaon Experiment was a success and it is considered to be one of the most important
experiments in rural development in India. It laid the foundation for many of the rural
development programs that were implemented in India in the later years.

8. Explain the significance of Sriniketan rural development program. What was the basic

philosophy behind the experiment?

Ans - The Sriniketan rural development program was an experiment in rural reconstruction that
was initiated by Rabindranath Tagore in 1922 at Sriniketan, a rural settlement near Bolpur in
West Bengal. The program was based on the following principles:

 The need for holistic development: The program aimed at holistic development of the
rural community, which included economic, social, cultural, and spiritual aspects.
 The importance of self-reliance: The program emphasized the need for rural communities
to be self-reliant and to develop their own resources.
 The role of education: The program stressed the importance of education in rural
development and established a number of schools and training centers at Sriniketan.
 The importance of cooperation: The program emphasized the need for cooperation
among rural communities and between rural communities and the government.
The Sriniketan rural development program was a pioneering effort in rural reconstruction and it
had a significant impact on the development of rural areas in India. The program's emphasis on
holistic development, self-reliance, education, and cooperation has been adopted by many other
rural development programs in India and around the world.

The basic philosophy behind the Sriniketan rural development program was that rural
communities could be developed through education, cooperation, and self-reliance. The program
emphasized the importance of education in raising the standard of living of rural people and in
providing them with the skills they needed to improve their lives. The program also emphasized
the importance of cooperation among rural communities and between rural communities and the
government. The program believed that by working together, rural communities could overcome
the challenges they faced and improve their lives.

9. Write a short note on features of Firkha development scheme.

Ans - The Firka Development Scheme was a rural development program launched in Madras
State (now Tamil Nadu) in 1946. The scheme was initiated by T. Prakasam, the then Chief
Minister of Madras State. The objective of the scheme was to improve the living conditions of
the rural population in the state.

The Firka Development Scheme was based on the following principles:

 Participation of the people: The scheme was designed to involve the people of the
villages in the planning and implementation of the development activities.
 Use of local resources: The scheme made use of local resources, such as manpower,
materials, and skills, to the maximum extent possible.
 Sustainability: The scheme was designed to be sustainable in the long term.

The Firka Development Scheme was a pioneering effort in rural development. It laid the
foundation for many of the rural development programs that were implemented in India in the
later years.

Here are some of the key features of the Firka Development Scheme:

 It was a comprehensive program that covered all aspects of rural development, including
agriculture, health, education, and infrastructure.
  It was based on the principle of participation, with the villagers themselves being
involved in the planning and implementation of the development activities.
 It made use of local resources to the maximum extent possible.
 It was designed to be sustainable in the long term.

The Firka Development Scheme was a success and it is considered to be one of the most
important experiments in rural development in India. It laid the foundation for many of the rural
development programs that were implemented in India in the later years.

Here are some of the specific features of the Firka Development Scheme:

 Selection of Firkas: The Firka Development Scheme was implemented in 34 Firkas

(group of 5 villages) throughout the state. The Firkas were selected on the basis of their
backwardness and their potential for development.
 Planning and Implementation: The planning and implementation of the Firka
Development Scheme was done by the State Government in collaboration with the local
panchayats and voluntary organizations.
 Activities: The Firka Development Scheme included a wide range of activities, such as:
o Construction of roads, bridges, and canals
o Development of irrigation facilities
o Improvement of agricultural practices
o Provision of health and education facilities
o Promotion of cottage industries
o Development of social and cultural activities

10. Define Target approach to rural community development

Ans - The target approach to rural community development is a strategy that focuses on
providing assistance to specific groups of people who are considered to be most in need. This
approach is based on the belief that by targeting resources to the most vulnerable, it is possible to
achieve a greater impact on poverty and inequality.

The target approach has been used in a variety of rural development programs, including the
Small Farmers Development Agency (SFDA) and the Marginal Farmers and Agricultural
Labourers Development Agency (MFAL). These programs provide financial assistance, training,
and other support to small farmers and landless laborers, who are considered to be among the
most vulnerable groups in rural areas.

The target approach has been shown to be effective in improving the lives of the poor and
marginalized. However, it is important to note that this approach can also lead to exclusion and
marginalization of other groups who are not considered to be the most in need. Therefore, it is
important to ensure that the target approach is implemented in a way that is inclusive and
equitable.

Here are some of the advantages of the target approach:

 It can help to achieve a greater impact on poverty and inequality by targeting resources to
the most vulnerable.
 It can help to improve the lives of the poor and marginalized by providing them with
access to resources and opportunities.
 It can help to build capacity and resilience among the poor and marginalized by providing
them with training and support.

Here are some of the disadvantages of the target approach:

 It can lead to exclusion and marginalization of other groups who are not considered to be
the most in need.
 It can be difficult to identify and target the most vulnerable groups.
 It can be expensive to implement.

Overall, the target approach is a valuable strategy for rural community development. However, it
is important to be aware of its limitations and to implement it in a way that is inclusive and
equitable.
 Assignment – 2

1. Explain the structure of Panchayati Raj institutions in India. Also define issues faced by

PRI.

Ans - The Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) are the local self-government institutions in India.
They are established under the Constitution of India and are responsible for the administration of
rural areas.

The PRIs are structured in a three-tier system:

 Gram Panchayat: The Gram Panchayat is the lowest tier of the PRIs. It is constituted for
a village or a group of villages. The members of the Gram Panchayat are elected directly
by the people of the village or the group of villages.
 Panchayat Samiti: The Panchayat Samiti is the middle tier of the PRIs. It is constituted
for a group of Gram Panchayats. The members of the Panchayat Samiti are elected
indirectly by the members of the Gram Panchayats.
 Zila Parishad: The Zila Parishad is the highest tier of the PRIs. It is constituted for a
district. The members of the Zila Parishad are elected indirectly by the members of the
Panchayat Simitis.

Here are some of the specific issues faced by PRIs:

 Lack of financial resources: The PRIs are often not given enough financial resources by
the state governments. This makes it difficult for them to implement development
schemes and provide basic amenities to the people.
 Lack of capacity of the PRIs: The PRIs often lack the capacity to manage the resources
that they are given. This is due to a lack of training and expertise among the elected
representatives and the staff of the PRIs.
  Political interference in the functioning of the PRIs: The PRIs are often subject to
political interference from the state governments and the political parties. This can
hamper their functioning and prevent them from delivering on their promises.
 Lack of awareness among the people about the PRIs: The people in rural areas are
often not aware of the role of the PRIs. This can lead to a lack of participation in the PRIs
and a lack of accountability of the PRIs to the people.

2. Write a short note on gram panchayat and its functions.

Ans - The Gram Panchayat is an important institution of local self-government in India. It plays
a vital role in the development and administration of villages. The Gram Panchayat is also a
forum for the people of the village to participate in decision-making and to hold their elected
representatives accountable.

Here are some of the specific functions of a Gram Panchayat:

 Public works and welfare functions: The Gram Panchayat is responsible for the
construction, repair, and maintenance of roads, bridges, drains, and wells. It also provides
primary education, healthcare, and sanitation facilities.
 Social and economic functions: The Gram Panchayat can establish and run fair-price
shops, cooperative credit societies, and other economic development schemes. It can also
construct libraries, marriage halls, and other social infrastructure.
 Judicial functions: The Gram Panchayat can adjudicate minor disputes and impose
fines.
 Revenue collection: The Gram Panchayat collects taxes and other revenue from the
villagers. These funds are used to finance the development and administration of the
village.
 Disaster management: The Gram Panchayat is responsible for disaster preparedness and
response. It can work with the state government to provide relief and rehabilitation to the
affected people.

The Gram Panchayat is a vital institution for rural development. It provides a forum for the
people of the village to participate in decision-making and to hold their elected representatives
accountable. The Gram Panchayat is also responsible for the delivery of basic services such as
education, healthcare, and sanitation.

3. Explain the functioning of Panchayat samiti.

Ans - The Panchayat Samiti is an important institution of local self-government in India. It plays
a vital role in the development and administration of blocks. The Panchayat Samiti is also a
forum for the people of the block to participate in decision-making and to hold their elected
representatives accountable.

Here are some of the specific functions of a Panchayat Samiti:

 Planning and implementation of development schemes: The Panchayat Samiti is

responsible for preparing and implementing development plans for the block. These plans
are prepared in consultation with the Gram Panchayats, the Zila Parishad, and the state
government.
 Provision of basic services: The Panchayat Samiti is responsible for providing basic
services such as education, health care, and sanitation to the people of the block. It can
establish and run schools, hospitals, and dispensaries. It can also construct roads, bridges,
and water supply schemes.
 Maintenance of public infrastructure: The Panchayat Samiti is responsible for the
maintenance of public infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and water supply schemes. It
can also construct and maintain libraries, community halls, and other social
infrastructure.
 Collection of taxes and other revenue: The Panchayat Samiti collects taxes and other
revenue from the people of the block. These funds are used to finance the development
and administration of the block.
 Enforcement of laws and regulations: The Panchayat Samiti is responsible for the
enforcement of laws and regulations in the block. It can issue notices, collect fines, and
prosecute offenders.
 Resolving disputes: The Panchayat Samiti can adjudicate minor disputes and impose
fines. It can also refer major disputes to the Zila Parishad or the state government.

The Panchayat Samiti is a vital institution for rural development. It provides a forum for the
people of the block to participate in decision-making and to hold their elected representatives
accountable. The Panchayat Samiti is also responsible for the delivery of basic services such as
education, healthcare, and sanitation.
 4. Write a short note on Zila Parishad and its functions.

Ans - The Zila Parishad is an important institution of local self-government in India. It plays a
vital role in the development and administration of districts. The Zila Parishad is also a forum for
the people of the district to participate in decision-making and to hold their elected
representatives accountable.

Here are some of the specific functions of a Zila Parishad:

 Planning and implementation of development schemes: The Zila Parishad is

responsible for preparing and implementing development plans for the district. These
plans are prepared in consultation with the Panchayat Samitis, the Gram Panchayats, and
the state government.
 Provision of basic services: The Zila Parishad is responsible for providing basic services
such as education, health care, and sanitation to the people of the district. It can establish
and run schools, hospitals, and dispensaries. It can also construct roads, bridges, and
water supply schemes.
 Maintenance of public infrastructure: The Zila Parishad is responsible for the
maintenance of public infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and water supply schemes. It
can also construct and maintain libraries, community halls, and other social
infrastructure.
 Collection of taxes and other revenue: The Zila Parishad collects taxes and other
revenue from the people of the district. These funds are used to finance the development
and administration of the district.
 Enforcement of laws and regulations: The Zila Parishad is responsible for the
enforcement of laws and regulations in the district. It can issue notices, collect fines, and
prosecute offenders.
 Resolving disputes: The Zila Parishad can adjudicate minor disputes and impose. It can
also refer major disputes to the state government.

The Zila Parishad is a vital institution for rural development. It provides a forum for the people
of the district to participate in decision-making and to hold their elected representatives
accountable. The Zila Parishad is also responsible for the delivery of basic services such as
education, healthcare, and sanitation.

5. Explain the composition of rural finance structure in India.

Ans - The rural finance structure in India is composed of a variety of institutions, including
commercial banks, cooperative banks, regional rural banks, and microfinance institutions.

Commercial banks are the largest providers of rural credit in India. They offer a wide range of
lending products, including crop loans, term loans, and working capital loans. However,
commercial banks have been criticized for their high interest rates and their reluctance to lend to
small and marginal farmers.

Cooperative banks are owned and controlled by their members. They offer a variety of financial
services, including savings accounts, loans, and insurance. Cooperative banks have been
successful in reaching small and marginal farmers, but they have also been plagued by problems
such as corruption and mismanagement.

Regional rural banks (RRBs) were established in 1975 to provide credit to rural areas. They are
owned by the central government and state governments. RRBs offer a variety of lending
products, including crop loans, term loans, and working capital loans. However, RRBs have been
criticized for their high interest rates and their poor performance.

Microfinance institutions (MFIs) are non-bank financial institutions that provide small loans to
poor and low-income borrowers. MFIs have been successful in reaching the unbanked
population, but they have also been criticized for their high interest rates and their lending
practices.

The rural finance structure in India is complex and fragmented. There is no single institution that
dominates the rural credit market. The different institutions have different strengths and
weaknesses. The government is working to improve the rural finance structure by providing
financial assistance to rural banks, promoting microfinance, and strengthening the regulatory
framework.

6. Write a short note on Balwant Mehta committee

Ans - The Balwant Rai Mehta Committee was a committee originally appointed by the
Government of India on 16 January 1957 to examine the working of the Community
Development Programme (2 October 1952) and the National Extension Service and to suggest
measures for their better working. The Chairman of this committee was Balwantrai G Mehta.
The committee submitted its report on 24 November 1957 and recommended the establishment
of the scheme of 'democratic decentralisation' which finally came to be known as Panchayati Raj.

The main recommendations of the Balwant Rai Mehta Committee were:

  The establishment of a three-tier Panchayati Raj system at the village, block and district
levels.
 The election of members of Panchayati Raj bodies by adult franchise.
 The devolution of powers and functions to Panchayati Raj bodies from the state
government.
 The provision of financial resources to Panchayati Raj bodies.
 The establishment of a State Finance Commission to review the financial position of
Panchayati Raj bodies.

The recommendations of the Balwant Rai Mehta Committee were accepted by the Government
of India and the Panchayati Raj system was introduced in India in the early 1960s. The
Panchayati Raj system has played a significant role in the development of rural India and has
helped to improve the lives of millions of people.

The Balwant Rai Mehta Committee is considered to be one of the most important committees in
the history of Indian democracy. Its recommendations have had a profound impact on the
development of rural India and have helped to make India a more democratic country.

7. What are the recommendations made by GVK Rao committee.

Ans - Recommendations of G V K Rao Committee

 In the scheme of democratic decentralization, the district-level body, namely the Zila
Parishad, should play a crucial role. "The district is the proper unit for planning and
development," the report noted, "and the Zila Parishad should become the key body for
the management of all development programs that can be handled at that level."
 In terms of planning, execution, and monitoring of rural development programs, the
Panchayati Raj institutions at the district and lower levels should be given a significant
role.
 For efficient decentralized district planning, some state-level planning functions should
be moved to district-level planning entities.
 A District Development Commissioner position should be formed. He should be in
charge of all development departments at the district level and serve as Zila Parishad's
chief executive officer.
 Panchayati Raj elections should be held on a regular basis. Elections were found to be
delayed in 11 states for one or more tiers
  The establishment of Panchayat Raj is a watershed moment in the evolution of grass-
roots administrative institutions. Panchayats have played a significant part in the
development of India's rural areas.
 In a nutshell, the G V K Rao committee wanted the district to be the epicenter of
democratic centralization.
 The phenomenon of development administration bureaucratization in opposition to
democratization damaged Panchayati Raj institutions, resulting in what is properly
described as "grass without roots"

8. Give examples of various government organization in field of rural finance in India.

Explain?

Ans – Some examples of government organizations in the field of rural finance in India are:

1. National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD): NABARD is the
primary development bank in India that focuses on agricultural and rural advancement. It
provides financial assistance and credit facilities to farmers, rural entrepreneurs, and rural
financial institutions. NABARD also regulates and supervises rural credit cooperatives and
promotes sustainable agriculture and rural livelihoods.

2 .Regional Rural Banks (RRBs): RRBs are banking institutions established under the RRB
Act, 1976. They are jointly owned by the central government, the respective state government,
and the sponsor bank. RRBs offer banking services and credit facilities to rural areas, particularly
small and marginal farmers, agricultural laborers, and rural artisans.

3. Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI): SIDBI is a financial institution

dedicated to supporting the growth and development of small-scale industries, including those in
rural areas. It provides financing, refinancing, and developmental services to micro, small, and
medium enterprises (MSMEs) in both urban and rural regions.

4. National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM): NRLM, also known as Aajeevika, is a

poverty alleviation program implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development. It aims to
promote sustainable livelihoods and financial inclusion of rural households by facilitating access
to credit, skill development, and enterprise promotion.
5. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY): RKVY is a centrally sponsored scheme that
focuses on strengthening agricultural infrastructure, enhancing productivity, and fostering
agripreneurship in rural areas. It provides financial support to state governments for
implementing agriculture-related projects and initiatives.

6. National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC): NCDC is a statutory corporation

under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. It promotes and finances cooperative
enterprises in various sectors, including agriculture, agribusiness, and rural industries. NCDC
provides financial assistance, loans, and grants to cooperative societies and organizations
involved in rural development.

9. What are regional rural banks? Explain their objectives.

Ans - Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) in India are specialized banking institutions that were
established with the goal of bringing banking services to rural and underserved areas. Their
objectives include:

1. Financial inclusion: RRBs aim to bring banking services to people in rural areas who may
not have easy access to traditional banks.

2. Agricultural and rural development: RRBs support farmers, agricultural laborers, and rural
entrepreneurs by providing credit for farming activities, livestock purchase, and rural business
ventures.

3. Savings mobilization: RRBs encourage rural households to save money by offering safe and
convenient deposit facilities.

4. Timely credit delivery: RRBs ensure affordable and timely credit for rural customers, helping
them meet their financial needs for various purposes.

5. Collaboration with rural financial institutions: RRBs work closely with other rural
financial institutions to enhance the availability of credit and contribute to rural development.

6. Promotion of rural entrepreneurship: RRBs provide financial support to individuals and

groups involved in small-scale industries and agribusiness, fostering entrepreneurship and
creating employment opportunities in rural areas.

RRBs focus on financial inclusion, agricultural and rural development, savings mobilization,
timely credit delivery, collaboration with other institutions, and the promotion of rural
entrepreneurship. Their purpose is to support the economic progress and well-being of rural
communities in India.

ASSIGNMENT - 3

1. Write a short note on Self help group and its functions

Ans - A self-help group (SHG) is a small, informal, and autonomous group of people who have
come together to help each other achieve a common goal. SHGs are typically formed by people
who share a common interest, problem, or need. They can be formed by people of any age,
gender, or socioeconomic background.

SHGs can provide a variety of benefits to their members, including:

 Financial assistance: SHGs can provide loans to their members at low interest rates. This
can help members to start or expand their businesses, improve their homes, or meet
other financial needs.
 Social
support: SHGs can provide a sense of community and belonging for their
members. This can be especially important for people who are isolated or
marginalized.
 Empowerment: SHGs can empower their members by giving them a voice and a sense of
control over their lives. This can lead to increased self-confidence and self-esteem.

SHGs can also play a role in poverty alleviation and development. By providing financial
assistance and social support, SHGs can help people to improve their lives and become more
self-sufficient.

Some of the functions of self-help groups include:

  Savingmoney: SHGs encourage their members to save money on a regular basis. This
can help members to build up a financial cushion in case of an emergency.
 Providingloans: SHGs can provide loans to their members at low interest rates. This can
help members to start or expand their businesses, improve their homes, or meet other
financial needs.
 Providingtraining: SHGs can provide training to their members on a variety of topics,
such as financial literacy, business management, and health and hygiene.
 Advocating
for members: SHGs can advocate for their members' interests with
government agencies and other organizations.

Self-help groups have been shown to be an effective way to improve the lives of people in
poverty. They can provide financial assistance, social support, and empowerment to their
members. SHGs can also play a role in poverty alleviation and development.

2. Explain the advantages of SHG and what are the issues faced by SHGs?

Ans - Self-help groups (SHGs) are small, informal groups of people who come together to help
each other achieve a common goal. SHGs can provide a variety of benefits to their members,
including:

 Financial assistance: SHGs can provide loans to their members at low interest rates. This
can help members to start or expand their businesses, improve their homes, or meet other
financial needs.
 Social support: SHGs can provide a sense of community and belonging for their
members. This can be especially important for people who are isolated or marginalized.
 Empowerment: SHGs can empower their members by giving them a voice and a sense of
control over their lives. This can lead to increased self-confidence and self-esteem.

SHGs can also play a role in poverty alleviation and development. By providing financial
assistance and social support, SHGs can help people to improve their lives and become more
self-sufficient.

Some of the issues faced by SHGs include:

  Lack of access to financial services: SHGs often have difficulty accessing financial
services, such as loans and savings accounts. This can make it difficult for them to
provide financial assistance to their members.
 Lack of training: SHG members often lack training in financial literacy, business
management, and other skills. This can make it difficult for them to use the loans and
resources that they receive effectively.
 Gender inequality: SHGs are often dominated by men. This can make it difficult for
women to participate in decision-making and to benefit from the programs and services
that SHGs offer.
 Political interference: SHGs are sometimes subject to political interference. This can
make it difficult for them to operate independently and to serve the needs of their
members.

3. What is human resource development? What are the needs of HRD?

Ans - Human resource development (HRD) is a process that helps organizations improve their
performance by developing the skills and knowledge of their employees. HRD can be formal or
informal, and it can take many different forms, such as training, coaching, mentoring, and
development programs.

The needs of HRD vary depending on the organization, but some common needs include:

 Attracting and retaining top talent: HRD can help organizations attract and retain top
talent by providing them with the training and development they need to succeed.
 Improving employee performance: HRD can help organizations improve employee
performance by providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to do their jobs
effectively.
 Enhancing employee engagement: HRD can help organizations enhance employee
engagement by providing them with opportunities to learn and grow.
 Developing a high-performing workforce: HRD can help organizations develop a high-
performing workforce by providing employees with the skills and knowledge they need
to succeed in the future.
HRD is an ongoing process that should be tailored to the specific needs of the organization. By
investing in HRD, organizations can improve their performance, attract and retain top talent, and
develop a high-performing workforce.
4. Explain the elements of Human resource development.

Ans - The elements of HRD are the different components that make up an HRD program. Some
of the most common elements of HRD include:

 Training: Training is the process of providing employees with the skills and knowledge
they need to do their jobs effectively. Training can be formal or informal, and it can be
delivered in a variety of ways, such as classroom training, online training, or on-the-job
training.
 Coaching: Coaching is a one-on-one relationship between a coach and a learner. The
coach helps the learner to develop their skills and knowledge, and to achieve their goals.
Coaching can be formal or informal, and it can be delivered in a variety of ways, such as
face-to-face meetings, phone calls, or email.
 Mentoring: Mentoring is a relationship between a mentor and a mentee. The mentor
shares their knowledge and experience with the mentee and helps the mentee to develop
their skills and knowledge. Mentoring can be formal or informal, and it can be delivered
in a variety of ways, such as face-to-face meetings, phone calls, or email.
 Development programs: Development programs are designed to help employees advance
their careers. Development programs can include training, coaching, mentoring, and other
activities.
 Performance management: Performance management is the process of setting goals,
measuring performance, and providing feedback to employees. Performance management
can help to improve employee performance and to identify areas where employees need
additional development.
 Compensation and benefits: Compensation and benefits are the rewards that
organizations provide to employees in exchange for their work. Compensation can
include salary, bonuses, and commissions. Benefits can include health insurance,
retirement plans, and paid time off.
 Employee relations: Employee relations is the process of managing the relationship
between an organization and its employees. Employee relations can help to create a
positive work environment and to resolve employee disputes.
 Organizational development: Organizational development is the process of improving an
organization's performance by changing its structure, culture, and processes.
 Organizational development can help to improve employee morale, productivity, and
innovation.

5. Write a short note on HRD dimension-education.

Ans - Education is one of the most important dimensions of HRD. It is the process of acquiring
knowledge, skills, and values. Education can be formal or informal, and it can take place in a
variety of settings, such as schools, universities, and workplaces.

Education is important for HRD because it helps employees to develop the skills and knowledge,
they need to do their jobs effectively. It also helps employees to develop their critical thinking
skills, problem-solving skills, and communication skills. These skills are essential for success in
today's workplace.

Education can also help employees to develop their personal and professional growth. It can help
them to become more self-aware, to set goals, and to achieve their goals. Education can also help
employees to become more engaged in their work and to contribute more to their organizations.

There are many different ways to provide education to employees. Some organizations offer
formal training programs, while others offer informal training opportunities, such as on-the-job
training or mentoring. Some organizations also offer tuition reimbursement programs, which
allow employees to pay for their own education.

The most important thing is to provide employees with the education they need to be successful.
The type of education that is most appropriate will vary depending on the organization and the
employees. However, all organizations should invest in the education of their employees because
it is a valuable investment in their future success.

Here are some of the benefits of education for HRD:

 Improved employee performance: Education can help employees to develop the skills

and knowledge they need to do their jobs effectively. This can lead to increased
productivity, decreased errors, and improved customer service.
 Increased employee engagement: Education can help organizations increase employee
engagement by providing them with opportunities to learn and grow. This can lead to a
more motivated and productive workforce.
  Reduced employee turnover: Education can help organizations reduce employee turnover
by providing employees with the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their
roles. This can lead to a more stable and experienced workforce.
 Enhanced organizational culture: Education can help organizations enhance their
organizational culture by providing employees with opportunities to learn and grow. This
can lead to a more positive and productive work environment.
 Increased competitive advantage: Education can help organizations increase their
competitive advantage by providing employees with the skills and knowledge they need
to succeed in the future. This can lead to a more innovative and adaptable workforce.

6. Write a short note on HRD dimension-skill development.

Ans - Skill development is important for HRD because it helps employees to be more
productive and to contribute more to their organizations. It also helps employees to be more
adaptable to change and to be more successful in their careers.

There are many different ways to develop skills. Some organizations offer formal training
programs, while others offer informal training opportunities, such as on-the-job training or
mentoring. Some organizations also offer tuition reimbursement programs, which allow
employees to pay for their own education.

The most important thing is to provide employees with the skills they need to be successful. The
type of skill development that is most appropriate will vary depending on the organization and
the employees. However, all organizations should invest in the skill development of their
employees because it is a valuable investment in their future success.

Here are some of the benefits of skill development for HRD:

 Improved employee performance: Skill development can help employees to improve their

productivity and to contribute more to their organizations. This can lead to increased
profits, decreased costs, and improved customer service.
 Increased employee engagement: Skill development can help organizations increase
employee engagement by providing them with opportunities to learn and grow. This can
lead to a more motivated and productive workforce.
 Reduced employee turnover: Skill development can help organizations reduce employee
turnover by providing employees with the skills they need to be successful in their roles.
This can lead to a more stable and experienced workforce.
  Enhanced organizational culture: Skill development can help organizations enhance their
organizational culture by providing employees with opportunities to learn and grow. This
can lead to a more positive and productive work environment.
 Increased competitive advantage: Skill development can help organizations increase their
competitive advantage by providing employees with the skills they need to succeed in the
future. This can lead to a more innovative and adaptable workforce.

 Creativity skills: Creativity skills are the skills that allow employees to come up with new
ideas and solutions. For example, a product designer needs to have creativity skills in
order to design new products.

7. Explain Nutritional status and it's uses.

Ans - Nutritional status is a measure of how well a person is getting the nutrients they need from
their diet. It is assessed by looking at a person's height, weight, body mass index (BMI), and
blood levels of nutrients. Nutritional status can be used to identify people who are at risk of
malnutrition, which is a condition that occurs when a person does not get enough nutrients from
their diet. Malnutrition can lead to a variety of health problems, including stunted growth,
impaired cognitive development, and increased risk of infection.

There are two main types of malnutrition: undernutrition and overnutrition. Undernutrition
occurs when a person does not get enough calories or nutrients from their diet. This can lead to
weight loss, fatigue, and a weakened immune system. Overnutrition occurs when a person gets
too many calories or nutrients from their diet. This can lead to weight gain, obesity, and a variety
of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

There are a number of factors that can affect a person's nutritional status, including their age, sex,
lifestyle, and socioeconomic status. Nutritional status can also be affected by certain medical
conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS.

There are a number of things that can be done to improve nutritional status. These include eating
a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and taking dietary supplements if necessary. It is also
important to see a doctor if you have any concerns about your nutritional status.

Here are some of the uses of nutritional status:

 Identifying people at risk of malnutrition: Nutritional status can be used to identify

people who are at risk of malnutrition. This information can be used to develop
interventions to improve their nutritional status.
  Monitoring the effectiveness of interventions: Nutritional status can be used to monitor
the effectiveness of interventions to improve nutritional status. This information can be
used to make sure that interventions are effective and to make changes if necessary.
 Research: Nutritional status can be used in research to study the relationship between diet
and health. This information can be used to develop recommendations for healthy eating.

8. What is meant by population pyramid? Explain its uses.

Ans - A population pyramid is a graphical illustration of the distribution of a population by age
groups and sex. It is typically shaped like a pyramid, with the widest part at the bottom
representing the youngest age group and the narrowest part at the top representing the oldest age
group. The shape of the pyramid can be used to infer information about the population's fertility,
mortality, and migration rates.

There are three main types of population pyramids:

 Expansive pyramids: These pyramids have a wide base and a narrow top, indicating a
high birth rate and a low death rate. This type of pyramid is typically found in developing
countries.
 Stationary pyramids: These pyramids have a more even distribution of people across all
age groups, indicating a relatively stable birth rate and death rate. This type of pyramid is
typically found in developed countries.
 Constrictive pyramids: These pyramids have a narrow base and a wide top, indicating a
low birth rate and a high death rate. This type of pyramid is typically found in countries
with an aging population.

Population pyramids can be used to track changes in a population over time. For example, if the
base of the pyramid starts to narrow, it could indicate that the birth rate is declining. This could
have implications for the country's economy and social welfare system.

Population pyramids can also be used to compare different populations. For example, a country
with a large young population may have a different economy and social structure than a country
with an aging population.

Population pyramids are a valuable tool for understanding the structure and dynamics of a
population. They can be used to track changes over time and to compare different populations.
This information can be used to make informed decisions about economic, social, and
environmental policies.

Here are some of the uses of population pyramids:

 To track changes in a population over time.

 To compare different populations.
 To assess the impact of demographic trends on economic and social development.
 To plan for future population needs, such as housing, education, and healthcare.
 To identify potential social and economic challenges, such as an aging population or a
declining birth rate.