What are the reasons behind the 7.5% dip in active workforce for MGNREGS

MGNREGS sees 7.5% dip in active workforce
There are several reasons behind the 7.5% dip in the active workforce for Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS):
  • COVID-19 Impact: The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns disrupted the regular functioning of the scheme. Many workers were unable to participate due to restrictions on movements and implementation challenges.
  • Migrant Workers Return: As the pandemic hit, many migrant workers returned to their native places, leading to a decrease in the active workforce engaged in MGNREGS activities.
  • Seasonal Effect: The dip in the active workforce might be influenced by seasonal factors, as agricultural activities and other alternative employment opportunities increase during certain months.
  • Change in Economic Conditions: Economic conditions in rural areas, such as better non-MGNREGS employment opportunities or higher agricultural productivity, might have contributed to a decrease in the demand for MGNREGS work among the rural population.
  • Mechanization and Technology: The introduction of mechanization and technological advancements in rural sectors can reduce the need for manual labor and consequently impact the active workforce engaged in MGNREGS.
  • Administrative Constraints: Implementation challenges, delays in wage payments, and administrative issues at the local level can also discourage workers from actively participating in MGNREGS activities.
These factors combined have contributed to the 7.5% dip in the active workforce for MGNREGS.
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