NREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act)

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA), enacted in 2005, is an Indian social security scheme that aims to provide guaranteed, rural employment for at least 100 days annually to adult household members. It offers legal assurance for work on public projects like roads and water conservation, helping reduce rural poverty and improve infrastructure. The scheme emphasizes transparency, workers’ rights, and fair wages, with funds allocated and managed by the government. NREGA also promotes rural development, supports employment during agricultural off-season, and empowers marginalized communities by ensuring livelihood security.