SRINAGAR: Javid Ahmad Dar on Friday participated in an online review meeting convened by Shivraj Singh Chouhan to discuss the implementation of MGNREGA and the forthcoming rollout of the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin).
The meeting was attended by ministers in charge of Rural Development from various states and Union Territories and focused on reviewing the status of implementation of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act and seeking suggestions for the proposed VB-G RAM G Mission, which is scheduled to be launched shortly.
During the deliberations, Javid Ahmad Dar raised several issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the need to enhance MGNREGA wages in the hilly regions of the Union Territory.
He said the existing wage rate of Rs 272 was inadequate in view of the difficult geographical conditions and higher cost of living in the hilly areas and urged that it be raised to Rs 311.
The minister said the revised rate should be aligned with the minimum wages framework to ensure fair compensation to workers in the region.
Javid Ahmad Dar also sought adequate financial support from the Government of India for clearing pending material liabilities under MGNREGA as the system transitions towards implementation of the new VB-G RAM G Mission framework.
He said timely release of funds would be crucial for smooth transition and uninterrupted execution of development works in Jammu and Kashmir.
