Examining the Effectiveness of MGNREGA in Supporting the Livelihoods of People in Remote Areas of Rambrai C&RD Block, Meghalaya

Abstract : This study specifically investigates the impact of MGNREGA as a safety net in supporting the Livelihoods of People in Remote Areas Rambrai Community and Rural Development Block, West Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. The study is based on quantitative research method and draws primary data from MGNREGA job cardholders across 10 villages using stratified random sampling, to make sure that people from different villages were fairly represented. The data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) software through descriptive and inferential statistics such as percentages, mean, standard deviation, and factor analysis. The findings indicate that MGNREGA plays a significant role in supporting rural livelihoods by employing during non-farming seasons, reducing financial stress, and improving access to essential services like food, education, and healthcare. The scheme also contributed to reducing seasonal migration and dependency on informal credit. Nevertheless, challenges like wage delays, limited awareness, and inadequate infrastructure persist. The study concludes that while MGNREGA has had a meaningful effect on rural development in the Rambrai Block, its long-term success depends on improved implementation, transparency, and enhanced community engagement. Overall, MGNREGA has helped people in rural areas, with most of the respondents expressing strong approval and acknowledging that it has helped many individuals in the village.