Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM) is a significant initiative by the Central Government of India, aimed at improving the lives of the urban poor. Established in 2013, this mission targets the economically weaker sections of society in urban areas, striving to provide them with increased opportunities for self-employment and skilled wage employment. It serves as a successor to the Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY), enhancing and expanding its predecessor’s objectives to better address the needs of the urban poor.
Background and Evolution
DAY-NULM was conceived as a comprehensive response to the limitations faced by the Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana, which had been in operation since 1997. Recognizing the need for a more robust framework to tackle urban poverty, the government restructured the existing scheme into DAY-NULM. The new mission sought to strengthen the support system for urban poor households by facilitating access to various employment avenues and essential services.
Objectives of DAY-NULM
The core objective of DAY-NULM is to reduce poverty and vulnerability among the urban poor. This is achieved through the empowerment of these communities by organizing them into strong grassroots institutions. The mission focuses on enhancing their capabilities through skill development programs, enabling access to credit facilities, and providing employment opportunities. By doing so, DAY-NULM aims to create a sustainable ecosystem where the urban poor can progress towards self-reliance and improved quality of life.
Components of the Mission
DAY-NULM comprises several key components designed to tackle various aspects of urban poverty. One of the primary elements is the establishment of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and their federations, which serve as platforms for collective action and mutual support among the urban poor. These groups are instrumental in facilitating access to credit and financial services.
Skill training and employment play a crucial role in DAY-NULM. The mission offers skill development opportunities tailored to market demands, ensuring that individuals are employable and can secure steady income sources. Additionally, it supports entrepreneurs through subsidised credit and assistance in setting up self-employment ventures.
Another critical aspect of DAY-NULM is the provision of shelter for the urban homeless. The mission aims to ensure that individuals without a roof over their heads have access to safe and secure shelters equipped with basic amenities. These shelters not only offer a place to stay but also function as centers for social and health services.
Support for urban street vendors is also a focus area under DAY-NULM. The mission seeks to facilitate a conducive environment for street vendors to carry out their businesses without harassment. It includes the creation of designated vending zones, access to credit, and training on best practices.
Implementation and Impact
The implementation of DAY-NULM is carried out through collaborative efforts between the Central Government, State Governments, Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), and other stakeholders. The mission operates on a cost-sharing basis between the Central and State Governments, ensuring that the program’s benefits reach the intended recipients effectively.
Since its inception, DAY-NULM has made significant strides in empowering the urban poor. Thousands of SHGs have been formed, numerous individuals have received skill training, and many have benefited from employment opportunities created through the mission. Moreover, the establishment of shelters for the homeless and support for street vendors has contributed to the social and economic inclusion of some of the most marginalized segments of urban society.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite its successes, DAY-NULM faces challenges such as reaching the vast and diverse population of urban poor, ensuring the sustainability of SHGs, and adapting to the rapidly changing urban economic landscape. To address these issues, continuous monitoring, evaluation, and adaptation of strategies are necessary.
Looking ahead, DAY-NULM aims to expand its reach and deepen its impact. With an emphasis on innovation, partnerships, and community participation, the mission is poised to continue playing a pivotal role in transforming the lives of urban poor households across India, driving them towards a path of sustainable development and prosperity.
