Context

• A report released by NGO LibTech India on “Assessment of MNREGA Performance in Andhra Pradesh” for the period April-September 2024 states that the number of total man days generated in the state declined by 11.8% during this period.This decline mirrors the national trend, which saw a 16% reduction, indicating widespread challenges across the country.

Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA) 

• Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) is an important law introduced by the Government of India to tackle rural poverty and unemployment. The aim of this Act is to provide employment to families living in rural areas and improve their quality of life.
• The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005 was passed by the Government of India in September 2005.
• The Indian Parliament accepted it in the year 2005 and implemented it in many districts of India in 2006.
• It was first launched in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh on 2 February 2006.
• Tamil Nadu is the first state to provide employment to disabled people under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act.
• Under this, adult members of rural families are given at least 100 days of wage employment in a financial year.
•  Under this scheme, employment is provided within a radius of 5 km from the applicant's home. 

Main Objectives:·

• Employment Guarantee: Under this scheme, adult members of rural families are given 100 days of employment in a year.
• Rural Development: Along with employment, development of infrastructure in rural areas, such as roads, ponds, canals etc.
• Wealth Creation: Increasing the wealth of rural families through employment.
• Social Security: Providing social security to the rural poor.

Works done under MNREGA:·

• Construction and repair of ponds
• Construction and repair of canals
• Construction and repair of roads
• Water conservation works
• Afforestation
•  Rural housing

Benefits of MNREGA:·

• Reducing rural poverty
• Increasing employment opportunities
• Promoting rural development
• Women empowerment
• Environmental protection