Context:
The House panel recommended revising wages under MGNREGS to reflect inflation.
Relevance: GS 2 (Governance)
Key Points:
- Inadequate Wages: Nominal wages fail to meet rising living costs, discouraging participation.
- Regional Disparity: Wages range from ₹234 in Nagaland to ₹374 in Haryana.
- Outdated Base Rates: Based on 2019 rates or ₹100 minimum, whichever is higher.
- Worker Concerns: Workers demand fair, timely wages to sustain the scheme’s objectives.
Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) – 2005
- MGNREGA is a law passed by the Indian government in 2005, ensuring the “right to work” for rural citizens.
- The Act guarantees a minimum of 100 days of unskilled manual work to an adult member of eligible rural households.
- Its primary objective is to provide employment to rural citizens and improve their economic conditions.
Provisions:
Eligibility Criteria:
- Citizen of India
- Age: 18 years or older at the time of application
- Rural Household
- Willingness to do unskilled work
Guaranteed Employment:
- The Act guarantees 100 days of unskilled employment for rural citizens at the government-set minimum wage.
Unemployment Allowance:
- If work is not assigned within 15 days, the applicant is entitled to an unemployment allowance:
- 1/4th of minimum wage for the first 30 days.
- 50% of minimum wage for the subsequent period.
Social Audit:
- Mandated by Section 17, all works under MGNREGA are subject to a social audit to ensure transparency, community participation, and government accountability.
Preference of Employment Near Residence:
- Work is typically provided within a 5 km radius of the applicant’s village.
- Travel allowances are provided for work beyond this distance.
Decentralized Planning:
- Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) play a major role in planning, executing, and monitoring MGNREGA works.
- Gram Sabhas have the authority to propose work and must complete at least 50% of the total work in their respective areas.
Working Conditions and Payments:
- Proper working conditions, medical facilities, and compensation are provided by implementing agencies.
- Payments are made on a weekly basis, with no delays of more than 15 days.
- Compensation for delays: If payment is delayed, complaints can be made and addressed within 7 days.
