Panaji: Between 2020 and 2024, there was a 60% increase in the number of households mobilised into self-help groups (SHGs). Overall, 65% more SHGs were brought into the Goa State Rural Livelihood Mission (GSRLM) fold, according to a survey-based report on the rural economy of Goa.
Chief minister Pramod Sawant on Friday released the report, which stated that there was a significant 131% increase in the number of VOs (village organisations) brought under the GSRLM fold. Importantly, 50% of the dormant SHGs were revived between 2020 and 2024.
“The non-farm-based livelihoods promoted under the Start-Up Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP) experienced a growth of 556%, and the Prime Minister’s Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme witnessed a 251% increase from 2020 to 2024,” the report said.
Sawant said Goa recorded unprecedented achievements in the growth of the rural economy, signifying a paradigm shift in the economic trend.
Self-sufficiency among households, with women taking the lead in driving the rural economy, was the hallmark of a sustainable surge in rural household empowerment and diversification in expenditure.
“This surge can be attributed to the implementation of various state-level initiatives and national programmes such as SVEP and PMFME,” Sawant said. “The SHG members are much more empowered to explore alternative income streams, enhancing their economic resilience and contributing to sustainable rural development.”
Rural development minister Govind Gaude said that the VOs experienced 158% growth in startup funds disbursement between 2020 and 2024. The increase in VOs receiving startup funds and the rise in registered VOs indicate strengthened organisational structures and improved access to resources.
“These advancements empower VOs to undertake larger-scale projects, distribute resources effectively, and contribute to sustainable community development,” Gaude said. “Collectively, these developments are promoting long-term economic growth and social welfare for their members. This has boosted the growth of rural consumption and reduced the urban-rural gap in the monthly per capita consumption expenditure (MPCE), in line with the national trend.”
Gaude urged students and practitioners of social development to study the report and the efficient management of the National Rural Livelihoods Mission project in Goa by the GSRLM.
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