IMPACT OF MGNREGS FOR LIVELIHOOD UPLIFTMENT IN MIGRATION-PRONE BLOCKS OF ODISHA: A CASE STUDY OF BOLANGIR DISTRICT

Abstract

This study investigates the intricate relationship between climate change,
distress migration, and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme
(MGNREGS) in Odisha, employing a mixed-methods approach. The findings indicate that over
80% of surveyed households recognize the impact of climate change on their migration
patterns, primarily driven by droughts and erratic rainfall that intensify economic hardships.
While MGNREGS is designed to serve as a safety net against distress migration, its
effectiveness is constrained, as households receive only 21.4 days of wage employment
annually—far below the necessary days to sustain livelihoods. Consequently, inadequate
income emerges as a significant factor driving distress migration. Additionally, the study
highlights the lack of convergence between MGNREGS and other sustainable livelihood
initiatives, further diminishing its effectiveness [1]. The research underscores the necessity for
improved program integration, enhanced resource management, and active community
participation in decision-making processes. Implementing these recommendations is vital for
addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change and distress migration.
Ultimately, fostering resilience among vulnerable populations and promoting sustainable
development in Odisha's high-migration districts will depend on these strategic measures.