Study of Selected CD Blocks of Kanchipuram District, Tamil Nadu

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment
Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) is a key rural development programme
that aims to enhance livelihood security through guaranteed wage
employment. This study examines the role of MGNREGA in
supporting rural livelihoods in selected villages of Kundrathur and
Sriperumbudur Blocks of Kanchipuram District, Tamil Nadu. The
analysis is based on primary data collected from 200 respondents
during a field survey conducted in January - March 2025,
supplemented by secondary sources. The study focuses on the socio-
economic characteristics of beneficiaries, awareness and participation
levels, the nature of employment, wage utilisation, and the perceived
benefits of the programme. The findings reveal high awareness of
MGNREGA and substantial participation, particularly among
women and economically weaker households. Employment under the
scheme is mainly concentrated in manual and asset-creation
activities, with most beneficiaries receiving fewer than the
guaranteed 100 days of work. MGNREGA income is primarily used
to meet basic household expenses, underscoring its role as a financial
safety net rather than a source of long-term economic advancement.
While the programme contributes to employment access and short-
term income support, its broader developmental impact is
constrained by limited work availability and a lack of diversification
of activities. The study concludes that strengthening planning,
ensuring adequate workdays and expanding the range of works are
essential for enhancing the contribution of MGNREGA to
sustainable rural development