Vol. 12, Issue 4 (2023)

Author(s):
Rahul Narwal, Rachna, Sujoy Khanna and Kamal Kumar

Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of the Mewat Development Agency (MDA) on the socio-economic development of the Mewat region, which comprises six blocks in the state of Haryana, India. Specifically, the study aimed to assess the capacity and effectiveness of the MDA in delivering ground-level services in health, gender, education, livestock, agriculture, cultural development, and community development. An exploratory research design was utilized to obtain quantitative and qualitative data from both the MDA and the public. A structured questionnaire was used to gather quantitative data from the public, while qualitative data was obtained from the MDA and other relevant departments. The collected data were analyzed by comparing the budget allocation with the progress made in different sectors. The study found that the MDA had not met the public's expectations due to a variety of factors, including the irresponsible attitude and lack of interest among MDA officials, the public's reluctance to change, and the non-cooperation of public and panchayats with various socio-economic development schemes. Additionally, the MDA did not conduct enough extension activities to popularize their initiatives effectively. To improve the situation, the study recommends continual trainings, interactive sessions, and feedback mechanisms for MDA officials. It is essential to engage the public and panchayats to increase their participation in the socio-economic development process. These measures can help to overcome the challenges faced by the MDA and enable it to deliver more effective services in the future.