Understanding the Constraints Faced by the Beneficiaries of Ayyankali Urban Employment Guarantee Scheme in Kerala, India

Aims: The present study aims to analyze the major constraints faced by beneficiaries of the Ayyankali Urban Employment Guarantee Scheme (AUEGS) in Kerala. Study Design: The study was carried out using a descriptive research design to understand the constraints faced by beneficiaries of the Ayyankali Urban Employment Guarantee Scheme (AUEGS). An ex-post facto approach was followed since the study dealt with situations and experiences that had already occurred. Data were collected through focus group discussions with the help of a pre-structured interview schedule. This method made it possible to identify and analyze the financial, social, technical, administrative, and facility-related challenges faced by the beneficiaries. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Kerala, India, among AUEGS beneficiaries during the period October 2025 to February 2026. Methodology: A total of 180 beneficiaries (90 each from the Malappuram and Sreekandapuram Municipality) were surveyed through focus group discussion using a pre-structured interview schedule to identify the major constraints faced by them. The identified constraints were categorized into financial, social, technical, administrative, and facility-related groups. The Garrett ranking technique was used to convert ranks into scores and determine the relative importance of each constraint. Results: The results revealed that delay in wage payments (Garrett mean score: 65) was the most significant financial constraint, followed by non-payment of unemployment allowance (56). Accident coverage (43), despite being a scheme provision, was perceived as a constraint, indicating implementation gaps. Lack of financial literacy (27) was also observed. Among social constraints, lack of knowledge about the program (64.25) ranked first. Technical constraints were led by lack of awareness and information (64.65) and a lack of proper knowledge about work (56.35). Administrative constraint of non-availability of assured 100 days of work (62.65) was significant. Facility constraints were most severe, with a lack of drinking water (74.19), resting facilities (60.80), and childcare support (49.96) affecting beneficiaries. Conclusion: The study concludes that implementation gaps, inadequate awareness, and poor worksite facilities hinder the effectiveness of AUEGS. Timely wage payments, improved infrastructure, awareness programmes, and simplified procedures are essential to enhance the performance of the scheme