The Central Government has unleashed a staggering Rs 44,323 crore to states and union territories under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday. This massive payout, covering wages, materials, and administrative costs up to July 17, 2025, represents nearly half of the Rs 86,000 crore allocated for the 2025-26 financial year.
In a written response, Minister of State for Rural Development Kamlesh Paswan revealed that the funds clear all pending wage liabilities and 50% of material liabilities from the previous year. “The 2024-25 budget allocation of Rs 86,000 crore was the highest ever for MGNREGS at the Budget Estimate stage, and we’ve maintained this robust funding for 2025-26 to ensure unwavering support for rural employment,” Chouhan emphasized.
The minister highlighted the scheme’s demand-driven nature, noting that the Rural Development Ministry actively monitors ground-level employment needs and is ready to request additional funds from the Finance Ministry as needed. With this colossal investment, the Centre is doubling down on its commitment to empower rural communities, ensuring job opportunities and financial stability for millions across India.
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