The UPA flagship MGNREGA will now be used to address Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s concerns over lack of development in the tribal areas.
Taking note of the lack of coordination between various implementing agencies involved in tribal welfare, the rural development ministry wants the various schemes under the ministry of tribal affairs to be converged with MGNREGA.
To explore this model, the rural development ministry has set up a working group to suggest ways to enhance productivity of the tribal people. The group will also suggest model pilot project to meet the aim and submit its report in two months.
The pilot project intends to bring changes in the farming systems of the poor and deprived tribal farmers, who are excluded from the mainstream development.
Since women will also be involved in planning, execution and reviews of the project, the move will empower women farmers. It will also enable food and nutrition security of women and children of these communities.
The government wants tribals who have benefited under Forest Rights Act should ask for work under MGNREGA.