A new Bill seeks to revamp MGNREGA, arguing rural needs have shifted since the scheme began two decades ago
It raises guaranteed work to 125 days. But higher promises will matter only if work is actually created and delivered
The big shift: it won’t be demand-driven. With normative funding, planning may improve — but access could weaken in distress
States may pay about 40% of costs. That could deepen ownership, but also strain finances and curb spending flexibility
States can pause scheme work for up to 60 days during sowing/harvest to protect farm labour supply. Focus areas include water security, climate resilience, and rural infrastructure
This is a safety net, not an employment strategy. The long-term test is creating better-paying jobs so dependence steadily falls