Key takeaways –

Evaluation of MGNREGA

1. Government should be congratulated on undertaking long overdue review.
2. Brought women in labour force providing dignity in “Sarkari Kaam”
3. Was useful to dalits, adivasis
4. In most cases, durable assets were not created
5. Work culture was also damaged in rural areas
6. Educated youth would not like to avail MGNREGA
7. Leakages in program were regularly noted
8. Wide gap between notified and actual wage
9. Delay in wage payments reduced enthusiasm
10. In many cases, only 20 days of work was provided
11. Not a preferred option but a fallback option

Going Forward with G RAM G

12. Need for extensive discussion as this is important policy reform
13. States have to be actively involved in the success of the new G RAM G
14. The process of implementation would be extremely important
15. Focus on activities that local people desire and not dictate from distance
16. Mechanisation is changing labour requirements
17. Local opportunities and local preferences need to be highlighted
18. Discussion and consultation are important for impactful implementation