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Is decentralisation promoting or hindering the effective implementation of MGNREGS?: The evidence from Karnataka

Author

Listed:
  • D Rajasekhar
  • Salim Lakha
  • R Manjula

    (Institute for Social and Economic Change)

Abstract

Decentralisation is viewed by some as an effective means of improving governance and equitable spread of development benefits. This paper examines the process of distribution of social protection benefits through decentralised governance by looking at the implementation of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) in Karnataka, which is ranked high on the devolution index. But, the implementation of MGNREGS under decentralised governance has produced lacklustre results and uneven benefits. Powerful social actors at the local level have devised careful modus operandi to dilute transparency mechanisms and stifle voices from below to subvert the scheme to suit their interests.

Suggested Citation

  • D Rajasekhar & Salim Lakha & R Manjula, 2017. "Is decentralisation promoting or hindering the effective implementation of MGNREGS?: The evidence from Karnataka," Working Papers 395, Institute for Social and Economic Change, Bangalore.
    • Handle: RePEc:sch:wpaper:395
    as

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    File URL: http://www.isec.ac.in/WP%20395%20-%20%20D%20Rajasekhar%20et%20al%20-%20Final.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Khera, Reetika (ed.), 2011. "The Battle for Employment Guarantee," OUP Catalogue, Oxford University Press, number 9780198070627.
    2. Crook,Richard C. & Manor,James, 1998. "Democracy and Decentralisation in South Asia and West Africa," Cambridge Books, Cambridge University Press, number 9780521631570, September.
    3. Crook,Richard C. & Manor,James, 1998. "Democracy and Decentralisation in South Asia and West Africa," Cambridge Books, Cambridge University Press, number 9780521636476, September.
    4. Pranab Bardhan, 2002. "Decentralization of Governance and Development," Journal of Economic Perspectives, American Economic Association, vol. 16(4), pages 185-205, Fall.
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    Decentralisation;

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