Impact of Samurdhi Program on Poverty Alleviation: An Empirical Investigation of Samurdhi Beneficiaries in Kopay DS Division in Jaffna district

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of Samurdhi Program on poverty alleviation in Kopay DS Division. Two hundred questionnaires were issued to the Samurdhi beneficiaries of Kopay DS division, in Jaffna district, Sri Lanka Such as Kopay north (J/262),Irupalai South (J/257), Urelu (J/267) and Urumpirai south (J/265) divisions. Urelu (J/267) and Urumpirai south (J/265) divisions. Out of which, 177 questionnaires only could be collected. Hence, 177 Samurdhi beneficiary families were incorporated as samples. Correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis were used to analyze the data and examine the hypotheses by using the SPSS. The adjusted R2 0.250 for the model implies that approximately 25% of the total variance in poverty alleviation can be determined by all dimensions of Samurdhi program as the independent variable in this model. Further, the model reveals that the remaining 75% of variability was not explained in this model. In this study the findings revealed that there is a significant impact of Samurdhi program on poverty alleviation. Microcredit has a positive and significant impact on poverty alleviation. Livelihood activity has an insignificant impact on poverty alleviation. Welfare has a positive and significant impact on poverty alleviation. Based on the findings the researcher can conclude that Microcredit and welfare activity is effectively worked, and livelihood activity needs to improve itself.