Discuss the important features of Employment Assurance Scheme.

The Employment Assurance Scheme (EAS) was a rural employment program introduced in India in 1993 as part of the poverty alleviation efforts. It aimed to provide wage employment to rural poor and create durable community assets through labor-intensive projects. The scheme evolved from earlier rural employment programs and laid the groundwork for subsequent initiatives like the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS). Here are the important features of the Employment Assurance Scheme:

1. Objectives:

The primary objective of the Employment Assurance Scheme was to provide livelihood support and income generation opportunities to the rural poor during agricultural lean seasons. The scheme aimed to enhance rural employment, alleviate poverty, and promote sustainable development through asset creation.

2. Coverage:

EAS covered all rural areas across India, including villages affected by chronic unemployment and underemployment. Priority was given to regions with high poverty incidence, backwardness, and limited alternative employment opportunities.

3. Project Selection:

Under EAS, projects were selected based on local needs and priorities identified through participatory planning at the village or panchayat level. Projects focused on creating durable community assets such as rural roads, minor irrigation structures, soil conservation measures, afforestation, and watershed development.

4. Funding:

The Employment Assurance Scheme was funded through a cost-sharing arrangement between the central and state governments. The central government provided 75% of the project cost, while the remaining 25% was contributed by the respective state governments.

5. Implementation:

EAS was implemented through the District Rural Development Agencies (DRDAs) in coordination with Gram Panchayats and local self-government institutions. Gram Panchayats played a key role in project identification, execution, and monitoring.

6. Employment Generation:

The scheme aimed to provide employment for at least 100 days in a financial year to each household in rural areas living below the poverty line. Priority was given to marginalized groups including Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and women-headed households.

7. Wage Payments:

Wages under EAS were paid in cash on a weekly basis to the participating workers. Minimum wages were guaranteed as per prevailing labor laws, ensuring fair compensation for labor provided.

8. Asset Creation:

Projects undertaken under EAS focused on creating durable community assets that benefited the local population. Asset creation aimed to enhance agricultural productivity, improve rural infrastructure, conserve natural resources, and promote environmental sustainability.

9. Monitoring and Evaluation:

The implementation of EAS was closely monitored through a participatory process involving beneficiaries, Gram Panchayat representatives, and government officials. Regular reviews and evaluations were conducted to assess project progress, utilization of funds, and impact on employment and asset creation.

10. Role of Community Participation:

Community participation was integral to the success of EAS. Local communities were actively involved in project planning, execution, and maintenance, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility among beneficiaries.

Impact and Legacy:

The Employment Assurance Scheme contributed significantly to rural development and poverty alleviation by creating employment opportunities, enhancing rural infrastructure, and empowering local communities. It laid the groundwork for subsequent rural employment programs in India, including the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), which expanded the scope and coverage of rural employment generation initiatives in the country. EAS highlighted the importance of decentralized planning, community participation, and asset-based approaches to rural development, setting a precedent for inclusive and sustainable development strategies in India's rural areas.