Development of Women and Children in Rural Areas (DWCRA)

iAbout This Scheme

Launched in 1982-83 as a sub-component of IRDP, DWCRA was India's first structured programme to organise rural poor women into self-help groups for income-generating activities. Women were formed into groups of 10-15 and provided seed money, training, and revolving funds to undertake collective economic activities. DWCRA planted the seeds for India's later SHG movement and was merged into SGSY in 1999.

🎁Key Benefits

• Formation of women's self-help groups for collective economic activity
• Revolving fund of ₹15,000 per group
• Training in income-generating skills (handicrafts, processing, etc.)
• Creche and childcare support for group members
• Linkage with IRDP credit and TRYSEM training

✅Eligibility Criteria

• 1
  Scheme discontinued — historical archive only

📝How to Apply

❓Frequently Asked Questions