Impact of MGNREGA on Asset Creation, Household Income, and Food Security

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) is a key rural development initiative aimed at enhancing livelihoods by providing 100 days of wage employment during agricultural slack periods. This chapter assesses the impact of MGNREGA in Meghalaya on asset creation, income enhancement, and food security. A field survey covering 240 farming households across 12 villages was conducted. Analytical tools such as the Gini coefficient, Lorenz curve, and difference-in-difference (DID) method were employed to evaluate income distribution and program impact. Results indicate that MGNREGA increased household income by ₹18,080 and food expenditure by ₹9,245.84, representing a 17.73% rise in income and a 16.69% increase in food-related spending. The programme has facilitated significant rural asset creation. Income distribution has improved, as reflected in the Gini coefficient and Lorenz curve analysis. However, dietary diversity remains poor, with cereal-heavy consumption and underconsumption of pulses, vegetables, fruits, and animal products contributing to malnutrition. The study highlights the potential of MGNREGA not only to boost income and food security but also to address nutritional deficits if complemented by targeted interventions. Strengthening village-level planning and convergence with schemes like NRLM and social welfare programs can enhance the programme’s effectiveness and sustainability.