Management of Community Resource Persons under National Rural Livelihood Mission with Reference to Bhopal District of Madhya Pradesh

Abstract

The National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) is a flagship program of the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, started in 2011 to reduce rural poverty by promoting livelihood opportunities and empowering women. Under NRLM, Community Resource Persons (CRPs) are appointed to facilitate the mobilization and organization of rural poor households into Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and their federations. The objective of this study is to assess the role of CRP management under NRLM in Bhopal district. This study is a primary study and conducted in Bhopal district with a sample size of 40 CRPs. The study developed a structured questionnaire and did pilot testing before final administering in the field. CRPs have a critical role in implementing programs at the grass root level. Initially, NRLM and various other organizations, tried to work with the unreached rural poor but faced several challenges, including trust issues; to tackle this issue, Community Resource Persons play a significant role in the community rapport building and institutionalize them. In Madhya Pradesh, the management of CRPs under NRLM is carried out by the Madhya Pradesh State Rural Livelihoods Mission (MPSRLM), which is responsible for implementing NRLM in the state. The SRLM has developed a comprehensive system for identification, selection, capacity building, task assignment, payment procedures and management of the activities of CRPs who are strengthening the community institutions like SHGs, Village Organizations (VOs) and Cluster Level Federations (CLFs). The findings of the study will help in enhancing the effectiveness of government initiatives, promotes sustainable development, and empowers communities to address their unique challenges.