MGNREGA Provides Employment and Self-Reliance to Rural Families

Raipur, Oct 2025: The construction of water ponds (dabris) under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) has enhanced irrigation facilities, improved crop production, and created opportunities for rural employment and self-reliance. These ponds serve as a permanent means of harvesting rainwater, enabling farmers to irrigate their fields throughout the year. In addition to boosting crop yields and farmers’ income, they also provide opportunities for supplementary income through activities like fish farming.

Several rural families have benefited economically from MGNREGA-supported dabri construction. Not only has it generated employment, but it has also improved irrigation facilities, resulting in increased agricultural productivity.

In the Mudagaon Gram Panchayat, located 67 kilometers from Gariaband district, there are 360 MGNREGA job cardholders. One of the farmers, Shri Tiran, previously relied solely on rainfall for his farming. Erratic rainfall and water shortages made farming difficult, leading to poor yields and a decline in confidence. Many other farmers in the area faced similar challenges.

Through the Gram Sabha, villagers were informed about individual and beneficiary-oriented works, including dabri construction, under MGNREGA. It was explained that these works could help increase agricultural output.

Shri Tiran and his associate Shri Rupadhar applied through the Gram Sabha to avail the welfare benefits of MGNREGA and construct a dabri. After the Panchayat submitted the proposal to the Janpad Panchayat and received approval, the construction work began. Today, the beneficiaries are using the dabri for irrigation and fish farming, cultivating crops in nearby fields, and ensuring sustainable livelihoods for their families.

Supplementary Income from Fish Farming

Shri Tiran and Shri Rupadhar reported that the dabri has increased income opportunities, helping rural farmers become self-reliant. The work has enhanced crop productivity, enabled high-quality yields, and allowed farmers to earn by selling the produce. The efficient use of land, improved irrigation facilities, and additional income streams have significantly improved livelihoods.

Increase in Agricultural Output

Shri Tiran shared that previously, poor irrigation prevented crops from growing effectively on his land, reducing yields. Through the Gram Sabha, he learned that MGNREGA provides approvals for several works aimed at increasing agricultural output. He applied to construct a dabri, which was approved by the government. Since the construction, his economic condition has improved substantially, crop production has increased, and he now practices better farming. His family is very happy with the dabri, grateful for the government’s welfare initiative, and he encourages other villagers to construct dabris to enhance their agricultural productivity. He expressed his heartfelt thanks to the government for this welfare program.