The MNREGA scheme, which was launched in 2005, aims to provide employment opportunities in rural areas. In 2024, several important changes and updates have been made to improve its effectiveness. The wage rates have been increased in various states, boosting the income of workers. Additionally, the financial allocation for MNREGA has been raised in the 2024-25 budget.
The process for issuing new job cards has been simplified, making it easier for workers to register. Furthermore, the use of digital payment systems and Aadhaar-based payment mechanisms has been expanded to ensure faster and more transparent transactions. These changes reflect the government’s commitment to enhancing the scheme and improving the livelihoods of rural workers.
The objective of the New Rules
The new rules under MNREGA 2024 aim to enhance employment opportunities in rural areas and ensure greater transparency. The government’s goal is to provide jobs to as many people as possible while curbing corruption.
Areas to be Affected
Under the new rules, nearly 1 crore labourers from various states will no longer benefit from the scheme. These workers will not receive 100 days of employment at the Gram Panchayat level. The government has outlined the following reasons for the removal of these workers from the scheme:
- Fake job card holders
- Duplicate job card-holders
- Persons not willing to work
- Families who have permanently shifted from the Gram Panchayat
- Job card holders who have passed away
Implementation of NREGA Update 2024
The implementation of these new rules will take place at the Gram Panchayat level. Panchayats have been instructed to verify all job card holders and remove fake or duplicate entries. Additionally, Panchayats must ensure that only eligible and willing labourers are provided with employment.
Reasons for Removal of NREGA Job Cards
In the financial year 2023-24, 85.64 lakh job cards were removed from the system. From April 2022 to February 2024, a total of 311.19 lakh job cards were removed. The main reasons for the removal of job cards include:
- Fake job card holders
- Duplicate job cardholders
- Persons not willing to work
- Families who have permanently shifted from the Gram Panchayat
- Death of a job cardholder
Number of Affected Laborers
Less than 1 crore labourers from various states will no longer be eligible for the MNREGA scheme. They will not be provided with 100 days of employment at the Gram Panchayat level.
Process of Issuing New NREGA Job Cards
The process of issuing new job cards is simple and transparent. To apply, follow these steps:
- Visit the official portal.
- Click on the “Quick Access” button.
- Select the “Panchayats GP/PS/ZP Login” option.
- Fill in the required information and submit.
