The DWRCA programme was launched in 1982 as part of the IRDP. Its aim was to empower rural women living below the poverty line by way of organising them to create sustainable activities through self-employment. It was the first programme of its kind that specifically focussed on improving the quality of life of rural women. A unique feature of the DWCRA, unlike the other IRDP components,was that along with the improvement in income,it also focussed on access to health,education,safe drinking water,sanitation,nutrition,and so no . Thus,it not only aimed at promoting economic development,but also facilitated social development. Another unique feature of the programme was that it emphasised group activity.It was thought that in the long run,women's empowerment depends on creation of a movement that promotes awareness and self-reliance