Integrated Rural Development Programme (IRDP)
The Integrated Rural Development Programme (IRDP) was started in 20 selected districts in the country in 1976-77. Later on in 1980, the programme was extended to all the districts of the country. The scheme was funded by centre. The funds for the scheme are shared by centre and State Govt. on equal basis. The objective of the scheme is to create productive assets for the families in rural areas living below poverty line. Bank Loans are provided to create productive assets to take up self-employment activities. They include agriculture horticulture, animal husbandry, poultry and weaving etc.
Rural Landless Employment Guarantee Programme (RLEGP)
This programme was started in 1983. Its main objective was to provide 100 days of assured employment in a year to rural landless labour families. They were to be employed in -j creating community assets. This scheme was sponsored by Union Govt. In 1989, this J scheme was merged in JRY.
Small and Cottage Industries
Special measures have been taken by the Government to develop small and cottage industries with a view to removing poverty and unemployment. Large amount is being spent to promote self-employment.
Minimum Needs Programme (MNP)
Minimum Needs Programme was launched during fifth plan to raise the standard of living of the poor. The programme covers primary education, adult education, rural health, rural water supply, rural roads, rural electrification, rural housing and ecological improvement & urban slums.
Swarna Jayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana (SGSY)
Swarna Jayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana (SGSY) was launched on 1st April 1999. It is the single self employment programme for rural poor.
National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS)
This scheme has been launched in Feb. 2006 in 200 rural districts of the country and will be extended to 600 districts throughout India. The main objective of this scheme is to provide at least 100 days of unskilled manual work to one person from each rural family at the minimum wage fixed by the State Govt. If the manual work is not provided to beneficiary within 15 days, he will be given unemployment allowance.