To make VB-G Ram G work, evaluate MGNREGA honestly |
The impulse that led to the passing of MGNREGA celebrated the spirit of inclusive development. However, the engineering that rendered the spirit behind MGNREGA into functioning machinery requires repairs and unclogging. Unless we recognise both achievements and challenges facing MGNREGA, it will be difficult to repair it, and this omission will continue to haunt both the present programme as well as its replacement, VB-G RAM G.How and where has MGNREGA succeeded? Its primary success lies in universal access that relies on self-targeting, reducing local bottlenecks. Making manual work available regardless of household economic status removes gatekeeping by local elites. Over the years, it has provided a safety net to households and employment to women and older Indians who would not easily find other jobs. Studies also suggest that it has been instrumental in increasing rural wages.
Nonetheless, cracks developed in this edifice over the years, reflected in growing inequality between states. In 2011-12, Kerala provided........