Question

Which one of the following is the objective of MGNREGA?

• A. To build assets
• B. To encourage micro irrigation
• C. Water management
• D. To enhance rural income

Hint:

MGNREGA is primarily about wage employment and income generation in rural areas — infrastructure benefits are incidental.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

MGNREGA stands for Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005.
Its main goal is to provide at least 100 days of guaranteed wage employment per financial year to rural households.
The Act aims to improve livelihood security in rural areas by providing paid employment in public works.
The direct benefit is the enhancement of rural income and reduction of poverty.
Let’s evaluate the options:
(A) To build assets — Asset creation is a secondary outcome, not the primary objective. ❌
(B) To encourage micro irrigation — Not the primary focus, though some projects may include this. ❌
(C) Water management — Like (B), this may happen through specific projects but is not the central aim. ❌
(D) To enhance rural income — ✔️ Correct. This is the core objective of MGNREGA. ✅
Therefore, the right answer is option (D).