The government has periodically launched several welfare schemes in the country, aimed at providing economic security to the weaker sections of society. Among these schemes, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA) has been the most important for rural India. Now, the central government has taken a major decision regarding this scheme, deciding to change both its name and its structure.
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In a recent meeting of the Union Cabinet, approval was given to rename MNREGA as the Pujya Bapu Rural Employment Scheme. This change is not limited to the name alone; there has also been a significant increase in the benefits provided under the scheme. The government believes that this will strengthen both employment opportunities and income in rural areas.
The Beginning and Objective of MNREGA
The National Rural Employment Guarantee Act was implemented in 2005 to provide legal protection to rural employment. Initially, it was called NREGA and later renamed after Mahatma Gandhi. The main goal of this scheme was to provide at least 100 days of employment to every rural family in a year.
Under this scheme, infrastructure-related works were carried out in villages, including road construction, water conservation, pond excavation, land improvement, and community development works. Over time, this scheme proved to be very effective in preventing rural migration and providing an income safety net during times of crisis.
Why the Scheme’s Name Was Changed
The government says that the new name, Pujya Bapu Rural Employment Scheme, further strengthens the idea of self-reliance in rural India. It conveys a message of respect for the contribution of rural labourers in nation-building. At the same time, an attempt has also been made to adapt the scheme to the needs of the new era.
What Will Change with the Increase in Employment Days?
Under the new system, the number of guaranteed employment days has been increased from 100 to 125. This will directly benefit families who struggle with a lack of work during certain months of the year. More days of employment will bring stability to their annual income and reduce their dependence on debt.
Increased Wages to Benefit Village Economies
The government has increased the minimum daily wage to Rs. 240. This will directly increase the daily earnings of rural labourers. The increased income will also impact the purchasing power of villages, strengthening local markets, small shopkeepers, and agriculture-based activities.
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Strategy to Strengthen Rural India
The government’s focus is no longer limited to simply providing employment, but rather on making rural life economically sustainable. In a time of rising inflation, this decision brings relief to rural families. The scheme aims to ensure that people in villages can become self-reliant with dignified wages and do not have to migrate to cities.