UPSC Prelims 2012 · Question 58 of 98

UPSC Prelims 2012 question on Drda Rural Poverty

How do District Rural Development Agencies (DRDAs) help in reduction of rural poverty in India?

1. DRDAs act as Panchayati Raj Institutions in backward regions.

2. DRDAs undertake scientific study of poverty and malnutrition.

3. DRDAs secure inter-sectoral and inter-departmental coordination.

4. DRDAs ensure effective utilization of anti-poverty funds.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Answer: B. 3 and 4 only

Correct Answer: 3 and 4 only

District Rural Development Agencies are district-level administrative and coordinating bodies.

They mainly help implement, coordinate and monitor rural development and anti-poverty programmes.

1. DRDAs act as Panchayati Raj Institutions — Incorrect

DRDAs are not Panchayati Raj Institutions.

They are separate administrative bodies, often registered as societies, though they work closely with PRIs such as Zila Parishads.

2. DRDAs undertake scientific study of poverty and malnutrition — Incorrect

This is not the core function of DRDAs.

Scientific studies on poverty and malnutrition are generally done by specialised agencies, research bodies or statistical institutions.

3. DRDAs secure inter-sectoral and inter-departmental coordination — Correct

This is an important function of DRDAs.

They coordinate among different departments, banks and agencies involved in rural development and poverty alleviation.

4. DRDAs ensure effective utilization of anti-poverty funds — Correct

DRDAs monitor the flow and use of funds meant for anti-poverty and rural development schemes.

Their role is to ensure that funds are properly used for intended beneficiaries and programmes.

* DRDAs were created to support implementation of anti-poverty programmes at the district level.

* They function under the broad framework of the Ministry of Rural Development.

* DRDAs work with district administration, line departments, banks and Panchayati Raj Institutions.

* After the 73rd Constitutional Amendment, many states have tried to integrate DRDAs with Zila Parishads.

* Their role is administrative and coordinating, not legislative or constitutional.

* Schemes linked with rural development include MGNREGA, PMAY-G and NRLM.

DRDAs are coordinating and fund-monitoring agencies for rural development programmes, not Panchayati Raj Institutions or research bodies.

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