IRDP

INTRODUCTION

  • The concept of Integrated Rural Development Programmes (IRDP) was first proposed and started in 1976-77 with the intention to end the multiplicity of programmes of development through multiple agencies. It has the unified field instead of the multipurpose approach of the Community Development Programme.
  • It is not a technique, but a plan of detailed action for development of the rural areas. It was introduced in India on an expanded scale in 1978-79 in 2300 Blocks. In 1979-80, another 300 blocks were added to the programme.
  • But from 2 October 1980, i.e., after the launching of the Sixth Five year Plan, the programme was extended to all the blocks of the country under the revised 20 - Point Programme.
  • In each block, 600 families were to be covered under the programme and out of these, 400 were to be covered through agriculture and related activities, 100 families through rural industries and thereof 100 families under rural services, business enterprises etc.
  • The allocation of fund per block was Rs. 35 lakhs and this was to be equally shared between the Centre and the State Governments. In addition to this, provision was to mobilize institutional finances for investment under the programme.
    • IRDP is a major self-employment programme for poverty alleviation launched in 1978-79.
    • Under these schemes, both wage employment and self-employment are provided to the people below the poverty line.
    • This is a centrally sponsored scheme funded on 50:50 basis by the center and the state.
    • It is stipulated that at least 50 per cent of the assisted families should belong to Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Categories. It is also required that at least 40 per cent of those assisted should be women under this programme.
    • Any persons who are below poverty line can avail the subsidy under the IRDP schemes.
    • The target group comprises of small and marginal farmers, tenants and sharecroppers, landless labourers and rural artisans.
    • Members of Scheduled Caste and tribal communities are also in the target group as they have been suffering from economic and social handicaps.

Last modified: Monday, 4 October 2010, 5:42 AM