Introduction to DAY-NRLM
The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), a flagship initiative by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, is dedicated to alleviating poverty by fostering self-employment and skilled wage opportunities for rural households. By mobilizing rural poor into Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and supporting them with financial and livelihood resources, DAY-NRLM aims to enhance incomes and improve quality of life, particularly for women.
Key Achievements of DAY-NRLM
The mission has made significant strides in transforming rural communities:
- Over 10.05 crore rural households organized into 90.9 lakh SHGs across India.
- Supported 4.6 crore women farmers (Mahila Kisans) and 3.74 lakh enterprises.
- Trained 17.5 lakh rural youth under DDU-GKY, with 11.48 lakh placed in jobs.
- Deployed 47,952 Bank Sakhis to enhance financial inclusion.
- Promoted sustainable livelihoods in agriculture, livestock, and non-farm sectors.
Transforming Lives Through SHGs
A remarkable success story is that of Heinidamanki Kanai from Meghalaya, who joined the Kyrshanlang SHG in 2020. With DAY-NRLM’s guidance, she started a soap-making business, producing rose, aloe vera, orange, and lemongrass soaps. Securing a Rs. 1.8 lakh loan, she invested in machinery and quality testing, achieving an annual income exceeding Rs. 1 lakh. Heinidamanki also trained other SHG members, fostering entrepreneurship in her community.
Core Components of DAY-NRLM
The mission focuses on four key areas:
- Social Mobilization: Building strong, self-managed community institutions for rural women.
- Financial Inclusion: Facilitating access to formal credit and financial services.
- Sustainable Livelihoods: Supporting farm and non-farm activities to diversify income sources.
- Social Development: Promoting awareness on issues like gender equality, health, and sanitation.
Financial Empowerment
DAY-NRLM has disbursed over Rs. 11 lakh crore in credit to women SHGs, supported by 47,952 Bank Sakhis who facilitate banking services. With a repayment rate exceeding 98%, the program demonstrates remarkable financial discipline and sustainability.
Livelihood Initiatives
The mission supports both farm and non-farm livelihoods:
- Mahila Kisans: 4.62 crore women farmers benefit from agro-ecological practices, supported by Krishi Sakhis and Pashu Sakhis.
- Micro-Enterprises: Over 3.74 lakh enterprises, including handicrafts and food processing, have been supported under the Start-up Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP).
Visual Insights
Images showcasing the impact of DAY-NRLM:
Source: Press Information Bureau, Government of India
Skill Development and Employment
DAY-NRLM includes two key programs for skill development:
- DDU-GKY: Trained 17.5 lakh youth, with 11.48 lakh placed in jobs by June 2025.
- RSETIs: Trained 56.69 lakh candidates, with 40.99 lakh settled in self- or wage-employment.
High-Performing States
States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh lead in SHG mobilization and financial support. Maharashtra excels in supporting Mahila Kisans, while Assam leads in non-farm enterprises under SVEP.
Advanced Training and Marketing
DAY-NRLM organizes SARAS Aajeevika Melas to provide marketing training, with the latest event held in New Delhi from September 5–22, 2025. The National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRD&PR) has conducted 44 training programs over the past three years to enhance SHG members’ marketing skills.
Conclusion
DAY-NRLM has emerged as a vital force in rural poverty alleviation and women’s empowerment. By fostering financial inclusion, sustainable livelihoods, and skill development, it has transformed millions of lives, strengthened rural economies, and promoted inclusive growth.
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