Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM)

 Introduction

Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) is the flagship poverty alleviation programme of the Ministry of Rural Development, launched in June 2011 by restructuring the Swarnajayanti Grameen Swarojgar Yojana (SGSY). It aims to reduce rural poverty through promotion of self-employment and skilled wage employment for the rural poor by creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.

This is one of the largest initiatives globally for improving the livelihoods of the poor, and it seeks to reach 10 crore rural poor households in a phased manner by 2022–23

Core Philosophy and Belief

• The poor possess inherent potential to overcome poverty.
• Social mobilization, when supported by strong institutional mechanisms, can unleash capabilities.
• A community-owned, demand-driven, rights-based approach is central.
• Dedicated, sensitive support structures are essential at grassroots.

Objectives of DAY-NRLM

• To provide gainful self-employment and skilled wage employment opportunities.
• To ensure sustainable livelihoods through diversification and inclusion.
• To promote financial inclusion, access to entitlements, and social development.

Four Pillars of DAY-NRLM

1. Social Mobilization & Institution Building
   • Formation of SHGs and higher-level federations.
   • Community ownership of planning and implementation.
2. Financial Inclusion
   • Access to affordable credit via SHGs.
   • Linkage with formal financial institutions.
3. Livelihood Promotion
   • Skill building and capacity development.
   • Promotion of diversified farm and non-farm livelihoods.
4. Social Development & Convergence
   • Integration with other poverty alleviation and social protection schemes.
   • Enabling access to health, education, food, and social security services.

Implementation Features

• Demand-driven, time-bound outcomes.
• Creation of a pool of Community Resource Persons (CRPs).
• Building Social Capital through internal CRPs and active women.
• Establishment of SHG federations and producer organizations.
• Support through external, professional institutions.

Livelihood Approach and Components

• Mobilize rural poor into effective SHGs and federations.
• Enhance access to credit, marketing, and other services.
• Build capacities, technical skills, and entrepreneurship.
• Improve delivery of social/economic support via convergence.
• Promote self-reliance, transparency, and accountability.

Convergence and Inclusivity

• Convergence with:
  • MGNREGA, PMAY-G, Skill India, Health Missions, etc.
• Emphasis on:
  • Inclusion of the poorest.
  • Transparency in selection and implementation.
  • Active participation of the community.