Poverty and Unemployment Nexus: A Community Connect Intervention for Sustainable Livelihoods

Abstract

According to NITI Aayog, 6.7% of India's population (93 million) lived below the poverty line in 2024, with rural rates frequently above 10%. Poverty and unemployment are still major problems in the country. The national unemployment rate is 8.1% (CMIE, 2024), with youth unemployment rising to 15–20% especially in states like Bihar (12.5%) and Kerala (29%). Women, SC/ST communities, and rural households are disproportionately affected by these, which also contribute to migration, social unrest, and skill gaps.

This Community Connect project focuses on [Your Community, such as a rural block in Bihar] through the following localized interventions. 200 unemployed youth and women will receive skill training in digital literacy, agribusiness, and handicrafts,50 micro-enterprises will be launched with microfinance and seed grants;  one-stop resource hubs connecting MGNREGA, PM-KISAN, and health services; and Gram Sabha dialogues for inclusive policy input.

Our goal is to reduce local unemployment by 15% and poverty by 10% among participants over the course of 18 months (with a budget of ₹1.2 crore), as measured by household surveys. The program promotes equitable growth and sustainable livelihoods by utilizing local resources and government initiatives.