The working of various public works programmes in India are central concern for assessing its effective implementation and achievement. The key influencing factors should be identified and policy variables should be addressed accordingly. This study focuses on the interesting issues like the factors influencing participation in the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Programme (MGNREGP), its impact on rural standard of living and its intervention in arresting migration in Odisha, India. The present study is based on the primary data collected from Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts of the state Odisha in India. Logistic regression model used in the the analysis to identify the predictors of participation in MGNREGP in both the districts of India. The program has positive impact on the standard of living of the participants in less developed areas. Still migration for searching better paid jobs is prevalent there. For active participation of the really needy people in the programme, it is suggested to create massive awareness among the people particularly among women through different sensitized programmes in rural India.