Awareness and People's Participation in the Implementation of MGNREGA and PESA among Korku Tribes in Melghat: A Qualitative Study

Abstract: The present qualitative study examines awareness and people’s participation in the implementation of the ‘Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act’ (MGNREGA) and the ‘Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act’ (PESA) among Korku tribes in the Melghat region of Amravati district, Maharashtra. The study is based on 20 case studies of Korku respondents from Korku-dominated villages of Dharni and Chikhaldara talukas. Primary information was collected through case studies and field observation, while secondary data were obtained from government reports, official documents, research studies, books, journal articles and other relevant published sources. The findings indicate that Korku households depend on agriculture, wage labour, forest produce and other livelihood activities, while seasonal migration is also common due to the lack of year-round employment opportunities. The study found that the provision of 100 days of employment under MGNREGA is not fully realized in the study area and that respondents experience delays in the provision of work and difficulties related to worksite accessibility and facilities. The study also indicates inadequate awareness among Korku communities regarding PESA and limited participation in Gram Sabha and local decision-making processes. The findings highlight the importance of strengthening awareness, community participation and social mobilisation for the effective implementation of MGNREGA and PESA. The study further emphasizes the role of social workers at the micro, mezzo and macro levels in promoting awareness, facilitating community participation, supporting grievance redressal and advocating for effective implementation.