Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rurban Mission | Cluster and Infrastructure Development - Key features of the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee National Rurban Mission

Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rurban Mission:

The Shyama Prasad Mukherjee National Rurban Mission (SPMRM) is a centrally sponsored scheme launched by the Ministry of Rural Development in 20161. The mission aims to develop rural areas by providing economic, social, and physical infrastructure facilities. It aims to create a cluster of villages that preserve and nurture the essence of rural community life with a focus on equity and inclusiveness without compromising with the facilities perceived to be essentially urban in nature, thus creating a cluster of “Rurban Villages”. A ‘Rurban cluster’ is a cluster of geographically contiguous villages with a population of about 25000 to 50000 in plain and coastal areas and with a population of 5000 to5000 in desert, hilly or tribal areas. The mission aims to develop 300 Rurban clusters, which are essentially large parts of rural areas that are not stand-alone settlements but part of a cluster of settlements, in relative proximity of each other. The outcomes envisaged with the mission are: bridging the rural-urban divide - viz: economic, technological and those related to facilities and services, stimulating local economic development with emphasis on the reduction of poverty and unemployment in rural areas, spreading development in the region, and attracting investment in rural areas. As of July 5, 2022, 298 clusters have been approved, 291 Integrated Cluster Action Plans (ICAPs) and 282 Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) have been developed by States/UTs with a total approved investment of Rs.27,709.33 crore (Critical Gap Fund + Convergence Fund)

Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rurban Mission government portal

Shyama Prasad Mukherjee National Rurban Mission (SPM-NRM) was a separate initiative launched by the Government of India. The mission aimed at promoting integrated and sustainable rural development by bridging the rural-urban divide. The SPM-NRM focused on developing rural growth clusters, which were envisioned as centers of economic activity and employment.

The key features of the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee National Rurban Mission included:

1. Cluster Development: 

The mission aimed at developing rural clusters that had the potential for growth and economic development. These clusters were selected based on factors like proximity to urban areas, economic activities, and potential for infrastructure development.

2. Infrastructure Development: 

SPM-NRM focused on creating quality infrastructure in these clusters, including roads, water supply, sanitation, electricity, and digital connectivity. The objective was to improve the overall living standards and attract economic activities.

3. Economic Development: 

The mission aimed at promoting economic activities in rural areas by supporting agri-business, skill development, and entrepreneurship. This was expected to generate employment opportunities and boost the rural economy.

4. Social Infrastructure: 

Besides physical infrastructure, the mission also emphasized the development of social infrastructure such as health and education facilities to improve the overall well-being of the rural population.

It's important to note that government initiatives and missions may undergo changes, updates, or expansions over time. For the latest and most accurate information, I recommend checking official government sources or recent announcements related to rural development initiatives in India.