Aadhaar-based payments for MNREGS (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme) workers have several advantages. These include:

• Increased transparency: Aadhaar-based payments eliminate the possibility of fraud and corruption as the payment goes directly to the worker's bank account.
• Reduced delays: The payments are instantaneous and eliminate the need for paper-based transactions and manual processes, resulting in faster processing and disbursal of payments to the workers.
• Enhanced financial inclusion: Aadhaar-based payments can increase financial inclusion for the workers who were previously excluded from formal banking channels and financial services.
• Tracking payments: The digital system enables the tracking of all payments made to MNREGS workers, which can help in monitoring and maintaining accountability and transparency.

The deadline for implementing Aadhaar-based payments for MNREGS workers was extended due to various technical and administrative issues such as the linking of bank accounts with Aadhaar, low internet connectivity in rural areas, and lack of awareness among workers. The extension aims to ensure a smooth transition to the new system and prevent any disruptions or delays in payments to the workers.