The Integrated Rural Development Programme (IRDP) was launched by the Government of India with the primary goal of poverty alleviation. It aimed to provide income-generating assets and self-employment opportunities to families living below the poverty line in rural areas, thereby helping them improve their economic status and standard of living.
13422
Following the formation of the state of Uttarakhand, what was the total number of districts in Uttar Pradesh?
When the state of Uttarakhand was carved out of Uttar Pradesh in November 2000, 13 districts were transferred to the new state. Consequently, the number of districts remaining in Uttar Pradesh was 70 at that specific point in time. This figure has since changed due to the creation of new districts by the state government.
13423
What is the current population density of Rajasthan as per the most recent census data?
According to the 2011 Census of India, the population density of Rajasthan is recorded as 167 persons per square kilometer. This metric is essential for understanding regional demographic pressure and resource distribution within the state's agricultural and rural planning frameworks.
13424
Who provided the leadership and guidance for the government-sponsored Firka development scheme?
The Firka development scheme was a rural reconstruction program initiated in the Madras Presidency. It was launched under the guidance and vision of T. Prakasam, who served as the Chief Minister of Madras. The scheme aimed to improve rural infrastructure, sanitation, and economic self-sufficiency in the villages.
13425
In which year was the Mahila Samridhi Yojana launched?
The Mahila Samridhi Yojana was a government initiative designed to empower women in rural areas by encouraging savings and financial independence. It was officially launched on October 2, 1993. The provided answer key indicates 1992, which conflicts with the official launch date of 1993. Users should cross-reference this with official government archives.
13426
Which rural development initiative is considered the precursor to the Community Development Programme?
The Etawah Pilot Project, initiated by Albert Mayer in 1948, served as the primary model for the Community Development Programme launched by the Government of India in 1952. Its success in integrating agricultural extension with rural development provided the structural and conceptual framework that was subsequently scaled up across the country to improve rural livelihoods.
13427
What is the approximate total number of villages in India?
The number of villages in India is often cited as approximately 5.75 to 6 lakh based on various census data and rural development reports. Since the majority of India's population resides in rural areas and depends on agriculture, the number of villages is a fundamental statistic for understanding the reach of agricultural extension services, rural infrastructure, and the overall agrarian economy.
13428
In which location was the Panchayati Raj system first inaugurated in India?
The Panchayati Raj system, a form of local self-government, was officially inaugurated by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru on October 2, 1959. The first state to implement this democratic decentralization was Rajasthan, specifically in the Nagaur district. This event marked a significant milestone in empowering rural communities to participate in local governance and developmental activities.
13429
Where is the National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR) located?
The National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR) is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India. It is headquartered in Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, and serves as a premier national center for training, research, and consultancy in rural development.
13430
What is the primary factor determining the success of a rural development project?
The success of rural development initiatives is fundamentally tied to the active involvement and participation of the local beneficiaries. When the community takes ownership of the project, it ensures sustainability, relevance, and long-term impact, as the interventions are tailored to their actual needs and local context rather than being imposed from the outside.