Sonia Gandhi demands MNREGA reforms, criticizes government handling

Sonia Gandhi has criticized the Indian government's handling of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA). She spoke in the Rajya Sabha, claiming the government is undermining the program by cutting funds and delaying wage payments. Gandhi noted that the budget for MNREGA is at a ten-year low, with allocations stagnant at Rs 86,000 crore. She stated that about 20% of these funds will be used to pay off old dues. She called for an increase in guaranteed workdays from 100 to 150 and a raise in the daily wage to Rs 400. She described MNREGA as an essential support system for rural workers, created by the previous government in 2005. Gandhi highlighted issues such as the Aadhaar payment system, delays in payments, and wages that do not keep up with inflation. Gandhi urged the government to make several changes. These include better financial support for the program, timely wage payments, and the removal of certain monitoring systems. She believes these changes are necessary for ensuring people have secure and decent jobs. The government has defended its actions, stating that MNREGA is demand-driven and funds can be increased as needed. They also argue that monitoring systems help ensure payments go to the right recipients. Currently, wages vary by state, with the highest in Haryana at Rs 357, and the lowest in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh at Rs 221.