Shortcomings in NREGA implementation: Planning Commission team

Team of officers was deputed to 35 districts affected by left-wing extremism in nine states to assist the district authorities in preparation of an Integrated Action Plan (IAP).
"Yes... observations made by the team regarding Mahatma Gandhi NREGA (is) related to poor banking and postal coverage, delay in wage payment, no linkage (of the NREGA) with Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna (PMGSY)," Minister of State for Rural Development Pradeep Kumar Jain Aditya said in a written reply.

The team also noted that an average of 17-40 days of employment were provided to the workers per household in such areas.

He was asked whether the team of officers has pointed out that there exists serious shortcomings in the implementation of the Mahtma Gandhi NREGA and PMGSY in the worst Naxal-hit districts in the country.

The team made these observations after interacting with the district authorities and locals, the minister said.As per reports by the states, during 2009-10, average number of days of employment in left-wing extremism affected districts was 48 days per household, Jain said.
"States have been advised to deploy adequate technical and non-technical staff with the implementing authorities to avoid delay in measurement (of works completed under NREGA)," he informed the House.Payment to NREGA workers through accounts has been made mandatory, he said.