Phase IFoundation
Background
Overview
MGNREGA is a landmark legislation for rural development and poverty alleviation. UPSC examines its effectiveness, challenges (wage delays, corruption, administrative issues), impact on rural livelihoods, and its role in social justice and inclusive growth. The article highlights its historical performance and the implications of its replacement.
MGNREGA is a social security measure that guarantees the 'right to work' to enhance livelihood security in rural areas by providing at least 100 days of wage employment in a financial year to every household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work. It aims to address the causes of chronic poverty through a rights-based framework.