Impact evaluation of agriculture and women entrepreneurship program at Alwar, Rajasthan

Student name: Mr Shreyom Das
Guide: Dr Pritha Datta
Year of completion: 2025
Host Organisation: Samavit Vikas Pvt Ltd.
Supervisor (Host Organisation): Mr Atul Kashyap

---

Abstract:

This thesis presents a comprehensive evaluation of a rural development intervention aimed at improving livelihood security, food availability, and women’s empowerment in Alwar, Rajasthan. Using a mixed-methods approach that integrates both quantitative and qualitative data, the study assesses the programme's relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, coherence, impact, and sustainability through an adapted OECD-DAC framework. Key findings suggest that the intervention substantially increased household incomes, diversified livelihoods, and enhanced women's participation in collective and institutional processes. However, intra- household agency and climate alignment remain areas for continued focus. The study concludes with recommendations for strengthening financial inclusion, sustainability planning, and context-specific delivery mechanisms for future programme cycles.

Keywords: Livelihoods, Women Empowerment, Rural Development, OECD-DAC, Evaluation, Food Security.