Management cost for implementaing NREGA increased to four pc

New Delhi, Feb 22 (UNI) The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for increasing by two per cent the management cost for the implementation of the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act(NREGA).

The existing cost was two per cent, which has been enhanced to four per cent, Minister for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi told reporters here after a Cabinet meeting.

The step has been taken to provide for additional manpower, infrstructure upgradation and skill development to the implementing agencies. It would also help in enhancing worksite facilities.

The present budget for NREGA is Rs 12,555 crore. Of this the Central share is Rs 11,300 crore and states have to bear ten per cent of the total cost which comes to Rs 1255 crore.

Four per cent of the budget comes to Rs 502 crore.

No additional funds for the current budget were needed and the enhanced administrative ceiling will be absorbed within the current year's budget.

UNI