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Tamil Nadu CM Demands Demand-Based MGNREGA Funds, Timely Wage Payments

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin moved a special resolution in the State Assembly urging the Union Government to protect the demand-driven nature of the MGNREGA scheme. The resolution highlighted that insufficient central fund allocation has led to denial of work and delayed wage payments for rural workers. It criticised recent administrative and technological changes for excluding genuine beneficiaries, particularly the elderly and digitally illiterate. The state demanded the immediate release of pending funds, simplified procedures, and the upholding of the legal right to work.

Key Points: Tamil Nadu CM Moves Resolution for MGNREGA Funding Reform

  • Urges demand-based MGNREGA funding
  • Criticises delayed wage payments
  • Highlights exclusion due to tech changes
  • Demands release of pending funds
  • Reaffirms right to work guarantee
2 min read

Tamil Nadu CM moves resolution urging demand-based MGNREGA funding, timely wage payments

Tamil Nadu CM M K Stalin moves Assembly resolution urging Centre for demand-based MGNREGA funding and timely wage payments to protect rural livelihoods.

"rural households are legally entitled to work under the scheme whenever demanded - Tamil Nadu Resolution"

Chennai, January 23

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Friday moved a special resolution in the State Assembly, urging the Union Government to protect the demand-driven nature of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act and ensure adequate fund allocation based on employment demand and state performance.

The resolution emphasised that rural households are legally entitled to work under the scheme whenever demanded and that timely wage payments are a fundamental obligation of the Centre. It called for the 100-day rural employment programme to continue in the name of Mahatma Gandhi, in remembrance of the principles and guiding values laid down by the Father of the Nation.

Highlighting the rising economic distress, price fluctuations, and loss of livelihoods in rural areas, the Chief Minister pointed out that the demand for employment under MGNREGA has increased significantly. However, the Union Government's allegedly insufficient fund allocation has led to denial of work, delayed wage payments, and accumulation of pending dues, affecting workers' livelihoods.

The resolution also criticised the Centre's new system, VB-G-RAM-G, and other technological and administrative changes such as mandatory digital attendance and new payment mechanisms, which, according to the State Government, have excluded genuine workers, particularly the elderly and those without digital access.

Tamil Nadu's resolution further demanded that the funding contribution pattern for the new scheme be aligned with the earlier MGNREGA framework and that states be allowed to determine fund allocation to districts independently, respecting the principles of federalism. It urged the Union Government to release pending funds immediately, simplify procedures, ensure timely wage payments, and uphold the right to work guaranteed under the Act, including unemployment allowances where employment is not provided within the stipulated time.

The Chief Minister underscored that these measures are vital to safeguard rural livelihoods and ensure effective implementation of the employment guarantee programme, reaffirming Tamil Nadu's commitment to protecting workers' rights and sustaining MGNREGA as a key social security initiative.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While I support the demand for timely wages, I feel the state government also needs to improve its own administrative efficiency. The digital systems are meant to reduce corruption, but yes, they shouldn't exclude the elderly. A balanced approach is needed from both state and centre.
A
Arjun K
Strong move by CM Stalin! MGNREGA is a lifeline for rural India. The Centre's fund cuts and complicated tech like VB-G-RAM-G are hurting the most vulnerable. Federalism means states should have a say in fund allocation. Tamil Nadu's resolution sets the right example for other states.
S
Sarah B
As someone working in rural development, I see this daily. The principle of 'demand-driven' work is being undermined. If a worker is legally entitled to 100 days of work, the funding must match that demand. This isn't a state vs centre issue, it's about people's rights.
M
Manish T
Good to see this being highlighted. In times of economic distress, schemes like MGNREGA become even more important. But the resolution alone isn't enough. Hope all political parties in TN support this and put pressure on the central government for the sake of the workers.
K
Kavya N
The point about digital exclusion is so valid. My aunt in a village doesn't have a smartphone. How is she supposed to give digital attendance? The system should be inclusive and assist those who aren't tech-savvy. The human touch cannot be replaced by an app.

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