Sonia Gandhi demands raising wages, guaranteed workdays under MGNREGA

On Tuesday, Congress leader Sonia Gandhi called for an increase in minimum wages and an expansion of the guaranteed workdays within the rural employment guarantee scheme, MGNREGA.

Addressing the matter through a Zero Hour reference in the Rajya Sabha, Sonia Gandhi stated that the BJP-led government at the Centre has “consistently weakened” the scheme by maintaining the Budget allocation for it at a standstill.

Sufficient financial resources should be allocated to maintain and grow the initiative, she stated.

The Congress leader stated that the minimum wage ought to rise by Rs 400 daily, with wages paid on time, and suggested increasing the guaranteed workdays from 100 to 150 annually. “These measures are essential to ensure that MGNREGA provides dignified employment and financial security,” she added.