Congress highlights recommendations of Parliament panel calling for MGNREGS wage revision
The Hindu
Congress highlights recommendations for MGNREGS wage rates, optional Aadhar payments, and rural development initiatives in 2025 report.
The Congress on Thursday (March 13, 2025) highlighted the recommendations of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, including a revision of the MGNREGS wage rates and making Aadhar-Based Payment System optional under the flagship scheme.
In its report, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Rural Development said the suspension of funds to West Bengal under MGNREGS and other schemes has led to "severe consequences", including a sharp increase in distress migration and disruptions in rural development initiatives.
The panel, headed by Congress MP from Odisha Saptagiri Ulaka, also said there is stagnation of funds in the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS).
Congress General Secretary (In-charge, Communications) Jairam Ramesh said, "The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, under the chairmanship of Saptagiri Ulaka, has released its Demand for Grants report for 2025-2026.
"It has made some key recommendations – Revision of the wage rates due under MGNREGA and a move away from the CPI-Agricultural Laborers Index to determine the hike in MGNREGA wages. The release of all funds due to West Bengal under MGNREGA and other schemes," Mr. Ramesh said.
He also highlighted the panel's recommendation to avoid delays in the payment of wages and material under the MGNREGA, which as of February 15 amount to Rs 12,219.18 crore in wages and Rs 11,227.09 crore in material components He said the panel has also recommended Aadhar-Based Payment System must be made optional for payment of MGNREGA wages and there should be an increase in guaranteed working days under MGNREGA from 100 days to 150 days.
The panel has also called for dilution of the Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation, and Resettlement Act 2013 by States need to be discouraged.
The government plans to amend the FCRA, introducing new regulations for NGO asset management and accountability for key functionaries.
The draft policy for “Responsible Digital Use Among Students”, released on Monday by the Department of Health and Family Welfare, has recommended that parents set structured routines with clear screen-time rules and prioritise privacy, safety, and open conversation with children on digital well-being.
Police Observer Sushant Kumar Saxena conducts surprise inspection at Shencottai police station, reviewing warrants and security arrangements ahead of elections.
Andhra Pradesh government to launch key projects in April, focusing on industrial growth and infrastructure development, says Nara Lokesh.
Lok Sabha refers the Corporate Laws (Amendment) Bill to a JPC amid opposition concerns over CSR provisions dilution.
SHG members in Kanniyakumari use snakes and ladders to raise election awareness and boost voter turnout.
Government accelerates consultations for early implementation of the Women’s Reservation Act to ensure women’s representation in 2029 elections.
CM A. Revanth Reddy distributes ₹1 crore insurance cheques to families of deceased Electricity department employees, enhancing financial security for workers.
The Bengaluru Traffic Police (BTP) registered 634 cases of drunk driving during a week-long special enforcement drive conducted across the city between March 16 and March 22.
GHMC intensifies action against property tax defaulters, seizing properties and offering a One Time Settlement scheme for payments.
CCB arrests three drug peddlers in Mangaluru, seizing ₹2.5 lakh worth of MDMA and other valuables.
TVK's 28 candidates in Puducherry include former BJP MLAs, a sitting Independent, and a retired police IG.
BRS submits notice on private member bill to Speaker