Effective implementation of Mahatma Gandhi NREGA needed: Dr.Joshi

Udaipur (Rajasthan), Feb.17 (ANI): Union Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Dr. C.P. Joshi on Wednesday emphasized the need for effective implementation of Mahatma Gandhi NREGA with active involvement of Gram Sabhas.

Addressing a national workshop on the implementation of Mahatma Gandhi NREGA here on Wednesday, the Union Minister said that the Gram Sabha should prepare action plan to ensure development throughout the year in the rural areas.

Dr. Joshi called upon the States to ensure that 60:40 ratio in terms of the wages and the material component, as provided by the Act, towards the expenditure is strictly adhered to.

He said that in order to eliminate the bogus job cards under the scheme, the list should be cross matched with the voters list. Timely payment of wages, development of Bharat Nirman Rajiv Gandhi Seva Kendras and priority to works related to water harvesting, figured prominently in his address.

Dr. Joshi stressed the need to have timely and effective social audits by the Panchayats to ensure transparency under the Act.

The National Workshop was attended by the District Programme Coordinators from various States, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh, along with senior officials from the Ministry. (ANI)