MGNREGA Being Hollowed Out by

Hoshiarpur/Dec.25/Daljeet Ajnoha : Local Bodies Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh stated that renaming the MGNREGA scheme is merely a pretext, with the real intent being changes that harm the poor and working class. He noted that the Centre previously funded 90% of MGNREGA, now reduced to a 60:40 split. Meanwhile, states’ RDF and GST funds are being withheld, amounting to a direct assault on state rights.Dr. Ravjot Singh said the Centre will now decide village-level works, imposing bans on pipelines, mandis, construction, and other development projects. By limiting pond cleaning to once every five years, he questioned how 125 days of employment could possibly be provided. This is tantamount to snatching food from the poor’s mouths, and he vowed strong opposition, including raising it in the assembly.He pointed out that Punjab, which earlier contributed 10%, now bears 40% of the cost while the Centre controls operations entirely. Citing models like “Jis Ka Khet Us Ki Ret” (sand from one’s own field), he said such approaches boost incomes.Dr. Ravjot Singh emphasized this issue affects not just Punjab but 68 crore MGNREGA cardholders nationwide. Imposing conditions and withholding funds alongside promises of 125 days is sheer injustice. Punjab government will fight robustly for the rights of the poor, youth, and common people.