How do District Rural Development Agencies (DRDAs) help in the reduction of rural poverty in India? 1. DRDAs act as Pancyayati Raj Institutions in certain specified backward regions of the country. 2. DRDAs undertake area-specific scientific study of the causes of poverty and malnutrition and prepare detailed remedial measures. 3. DRDAs secure inter-sectoral and inter-departmental coordination and cooperation for effective implementation of anti-poverty programmes. 4. DRDAs watch over and ensure effective utilization of the funds intended for anti-poverty programmes. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

District Rural Development Agencies (DRDAs) are specialized professional bodies established to manage anti-poverty programs of the Ministry of Rural Development [2]. Statement 1 is incorrect because DRDAs are registered societies and are explicitly prohibited from performing the functions of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), though they coordinate with them. Statement 2 is incorrect as DRDAs focus on action research and evaluation studies initiated by the government rather than independent area-specific scientific studies on malnutrition [1]. Statement 3 is correct; a primary role of the DRDA is to secure inter-sectoral and inter-departmental coordination and cooperation among line departments, banks, and NGOs to ensure a convergence of approach for poverty reduction [1]. Statement 4 is correct as DRDAs are tasked with watching over and ensuring the effective utilization of funds intended for anti-poverty programs, acting as a catalyst and facilitator in the development process [1].

Sources

1. [1] https://cdnbbsr.s3waas.gov.in/s371e09b16e21f7b6919bbfc43f6a5b2f0/uploads/2020/10/2020100471.pdf
2. [2] https://mahendragarh.gov.in/district-rural-development-agency-drda/