In a significant step toward rural development, the Rajasthan government has launched the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Poverty-Free Village Scheme to empower Below Poverty Line (BPL) families. The initiative targets 5,000 villages in its first phase, backed by a ₹300 crore budget. Its primary goal is to promote economic self-reliance through financial aid, skill development, and sustainable income generation.
Key Features
- Financial Support: Eligible BPL families receive up to ₹1 lakh to start small businesses or income-generating activities.
- Women Empowerment: Women in Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are given ₹15,000 per family to enhance earnings and self-reliance.
- Incentive for Progress: Families that move above the poverty line through personal efforts are awarded ₹21,000 via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), along with an ‘Atmanirbhar Parivar Card’.
Targeting and Identification
Using a combination of 2002 BPL records and updated surveys, the government identified 30,631 families in need across 5,002 villages. Over 61,000 new applications have also been received, with verification processes underway to ensure accurate assistance delivery.
Scheme Linkages
Each village will implement a customized action plan connecting families with relevant state welfare schemes, including job training, micro-enterprise support, and financial inclusion programs. The comprehensive approach ensures long-term poverty alleviation.
Implementation and Oversight
All disbursements are made through DBT to ensure transparency and prevent leakages. The scheme is part of the larger Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Antyodaya Sambal Fortnight, aimed at uplifting Rajasthan’s most disadvantaged communities.
