Maharashtra Government Releases Rs 67 Crore in Pending MNREGS Wages for Tribal Workers
The Maharashtra state government has cleared a significant payment of Rs 67 crore towards outstanding wages under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MNREGS). This disbursement specifically benefits unskilled workers in tribal regions, including areas like Melghat and Palghar, and has been timed ahead of the Holi festival to provide financial relief.
Funds Deposited Directly into Worker Accounts
According to an official press note, the allocated funds are being directly deposited into the bank accounts of the eligible workers. This move ensures timely access to wages and supports the livelihoods of tribal communities during the festive season.
Transition to G-RAM-G Scheme and Increased Work Limits
The MNREGS scheme has now been replaced by the Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission–Gramin (G-RAM-G). Under the previous MNREGS framework, the central government covered wages for the first 100 man-days of work, with the state government responsible for costs beyond this limit. With the implementation of G-RAM-G, the permissible work limit has been increased to 125 days, offering more employment opportunities for rural workers.
Central Government Approves Higher Labor Budget
In alignment with the transition to G-RAM-G, the central government has approved an increase in the labor budget from 13 crore man-days to 16 crore man-days. This expansion reflects the enhanced scope and objectives of the new scheme, which aims to bolster rural employment and economic stability.
Key Points:
- Payment Amount: Rs 67 crore cleared for pending MNREGS wages.
- Beneficiaries: Unskilled workers in tribal areas such as Melghat and Palghar.
- Timing: Disbursement made ahead of the Holi festival.
- Scheme Update: MNREGS replaced by G-RAM-G, with work limits raised to 125 days.
- Budget Increase: Central government boosts labor budget to 16 crore man-days.
This initiative underscores the government's commitment to addressing wage arrears and supporting rural employment through updated policies and increased financial allocations.
