States seek more funds for MGNREGA as work demand shoots up due to drought

Many don't buy the Centre's claim that fund flows to the scheme for wage payments have smoothened

The Centre claims that fund flow to Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Gurantee Act (MGNREGA) for wage payments have smoothened over the years, but much seems to be left desired in some states, particularly those affected by drought.

This, unless addressed, could impact the implementation of the scheme at a time when several states are facing drought-like conditions.

Recently, Jharkhand, which has declared drought in 129 blocks of the state spread over 18 districts out of the 24 districts, recently wrote to the union government seeking early clearance of funds for payment of wages for the months of August and