Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act 2005 (MGNREGA)

In 2005, the Indian government enacted MGNREGA to ensure the "right to work" for rural citizens.

It guarantees at least 100 days of unskilled manual labor annually to an adult member of eligible rural households, aiming to improve their economic well-being. 

Key features include:

Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be Indian citizens, at least 18 years old, belong to a rural household, and be willing to perform unskilled labor.

Unemployment Allowance: If no work is provided within 15 days, applicants receive an allowance—one-quarter of the minimum wage for the first 30 days, and half thereafter.

Social Audit: Section 17 mandates a social audit for all projects, promoting community involvement and government accountability.

Work Proximity: Work is usually within a 5 km radius of the applicant's village; a travel allowance is provided if farther.

Administration: Panchayati Raj Institutions oversee planning, implementing, and monitoring projects. Gram Sabhas can propose and execute at least half of the work.

Timely Payments: Payments are issued weekly and must not be delayed beyond 15 days, with compensation for delays. Complaints are resolved within 7 days.