Question

Explain the objectives of MGNREGA 2005.

Hint:

MGNREGA focuses on providing employment, reducing poverty, creating rural infrastructure, empowering marginalized communities, and decentralizing decision-making.

Answer 1

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), 2005 is an Indian labor law and social security measure that aims to enhance the livelihood security of rural households. The main objectives of MGNREGA are as follows:

1. Employment Generation:
- MGNREGA aims to provide at least 100 days of guaranteed wage employment per year to every rural household whose adult members volunteer for unskilled manual work. This is especially targeted at rural areas with high unemployment rates.
2. Reduction of Rural Poverty:
- By ensuring employment opportunities, the scheme seeks to alleviate poverty in rural areas. The wages provided under MGNREGA are intended to help improve the economic condition of poor rural families and contribute to the overall development of rural areas.
3. Creation of Rural Infrastructure:
- MGNREGA focuses on the creation of durable and sustainable rural infrastructure. This includes the construction of rural roads, irrigation facilities, water conservation structures, and afforestation. These projects not only provide employment but also contribute to the development of rural areas.
4. Empowerment of Women and Marginalized Groups:
- The Act mandates that one-third of the workers must be women, thereby promoting gender equality in rural employment. It also encourages the participation of socially and economically disadvantaged groups, such as Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and backward classes.
5. Decentralized Planning and Implementation:
- The Act promotes decentralized planning through Panchayati Raj institutions, which allows local communities to participate in decision-making about the types of work to be undertaken, enhancing local accountability.