27-November-2023-Special-Article

MGNREGA AND SOCIAL AUDITS

Recent data from the Management Information System (MIS) on Social Audit, maintained by the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), provides insights into the progress and challenges of social audits within the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS). The information sheds light on the efficacy of this anti-corruption mechanism.

Progress of Social Audits in MGNREGS

National Overview:

• Out of 34 States and Union Territories, only six have achieved over 50% completion in social audits for MGNREGS works in gram panchayats.
• Kerala stands out with 100% gram panchayat coverage, showcasing a comprehensive approach.
• Other leading states include Bihar (64.4%), Gujarat (58.8%), Jammu and Kashmir (64.1%), Odisha (60.42%), and Uttar Pradesh (54.97%).
• States with lower coverage include Telangana (40.5%), Himachal Pradesh (45.32%), and Andhra Pradesh (49.7%).

Understanding Social Audit

• Social audit is an integral anti-corruption mechanism within the MGNREGA Act, 2005.
• It involves reviewing official records to ensure reported expenditures align with actual ground-level spending.

Objectives

• Empower local communities to scrutinize and assess government initiatives’ efficiency and effectiveness.

Legal Framework

• Section 17 of MGNREGA mandates gram sabhas to monitor work execution.
• Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Audit of Schemes Rules, 2011, outline procedures and responsibilities.

Challenges in Implementation

• Limited awareness of the legal framework.
• Financial constraints for Social Audit Units.
• Political influence impacting impartiality.
• Lack of cooperation and coordination.
• Inadequate follow-up on audit findings.
• Insufficient protection for social auditors and whistle-blowers.

Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS)

Launched in 2005 by the Ministry of Rural Development, MGNREGS is one of the world’s largest work guarantee programs. Provides the right to work to rural poor households.

Objectives

• Ensure 100 days of guaranteed wage employment
• Strengthen livelihood resources.
• Ensure social inclusion.
• Strengthen Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).

Achievements

GIS-Based Planning: Integrated planning for Gram Panchayats based on GIS principles. Plans for 2,62,654 GPs designed as of December 2022.

NeFMS/DBT: 99% of wage seekers receive wages directly into their bank/post office accounts for transparency.

SECURE: Online application for estimate preparation and approval for MGNREGA works.

Skill Development (Project “UNNATI”): Aims to upgrade the skill base of MGNREGA workers. 27,383 candidates trained as of December 2022.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the progress and challenges identified in the social audit of MGNREGS highlight the need for sustained efforts to enhance awareness, financial support, and impartiality in the audit process. MGNREGS continues to play a pivotal role in providing livelihood opportunities for rural households, with new initiatives and achievements contributing to its overall success.

Mains Question

1. Discuss the significance of Social Audits in the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS). Analyze the progress and challenges highlighted in recent data from the Management Information System (MIS) on Social Audit, and elaborate on the legal framework, objectives, and achievements associated with social audits.