Section Article

An Analysis of Factors Affecting Womens Participation in MGNREGS
Author(s): Sayali Verma

Abstract
The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural work Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) is a prominent initiative designed to improve rural living by providing certain work opportunities. Although MGNREGS has achieved some positive outcomes the level of womens involvement in the program varies significantly across various locations. This research examines the several complex aspects that influence womens participation in MGNREGS. We use a mixed-methods approach to examine quantitative data from program records and qualitative insights from field interviews in order to determine the primary factors that influence womens engagement. The factors analysed include socio-economic circumstances institutional obstacles cultural norms and the effects of policy execution at the local level. The results of our study indicate that while MGNREGS has promise in promoting economic and social empowerment for women there are obstacles that impede their complete engagement including limited knowledge gender prejudices and logistical limitations. The report provides suggestions for legislative modifications and program improvements to promote womens participation and optimise the schemes advantages for rural women.