3ie news 204d ago

Building on a decade of change – Empowering rural communities through evidence On 9 September 2025, 3ie brought together policymakers, researchers, implementers, donors, and self-help group members for a shared dialogue on lessons from the Ministry of Rural Development’s Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). Over the past decade, DAY-NRLM and its enhanced phase under the National Rural Economic Transformation Project (NRETP) have made significant strides in strengthening financial inclusion, enhancing women’s agency, and improving rural livelihoods across India. This session reflected on the impact and evolution of these flagship programs, drawing on evaluation findings, implementation experiences, and community voices. Panellists explored how these insights can shape and inform the next phase of rural development, with a focus on systems-strengthening, equity, and sustainability. The session also examined how to better align policies and evidence to meet the changing needs of rural communities. Moderator: Raman Wadhwa, Deputy Director, NRLPS, MoRD Panellists: - Sudhanshu Sharma, Program Officer – MEL, Gates Foundation - Madhu Khetan, Integrator, PRADAN - Raghini Badhrinarayanan, CEO, Vrutti - Himadri Konch, Chief Operating Officer - Program, Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission