Changes in women decision-making after participation in MGNREGA: A study of Rural Punjab (India)

This study examines the impact of MGNREGA on women’s economic and social independence in Majha, Malwa, and Doaba regions of Punjab, based on primary data from 320 respondents (160 MGNREGA and 160 Non-MGNREGA participants). The analysis highlights significant improvements in women’s independent expenditure and mobility. For MGNREGA participants, independent spending on food increased from 41.88 percent to 52.50 percent, while personal spending rose dramatically from 0.63 percent to 38.13 percent. Social mobility improved, with women visiting markets alone increasing from 8.75 percent to 58.13 percent and consulting health professionals alone rising from 2.5 percent to 68.75 percent. However, participation in village activities and visits to parents’ homes showed minimal growth, indicating persistent societal constraints. Non-MGNREGA women exhibited similar trends, with higher autonomy in some areas. Independent spending on food rose from 21.25 percent to 53.75 percent, and personal spending increased from 6.88 percent to 64.38 percent. Social mobility gains were more pronounced, with 80.63 percent visiting markets and 81.88 percent consulting health professionals alone. However, activities like school meetings and interactions with officials remained collective. Employment under MGNREGA provided better job security and access to microfinance, with 100 percent reporting regular jobs and 95.63 percent accessing financial services, compared to 56.25 percent and 73.13 percent for Non-MGNREGA participants. Infrastructure gaps, such as inadequate childcare provisions, were noted across both groups. The findings emphasize MGNREGA’s role in enhancing women’s empowerment through economic opportunities and social mobility, though societal norms and infrastructural challenges limit its full potential. Addressing these barriers is crucial for amplifying the scheme’s impact.