Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA): A Strong Step towards the Concept of Gram Swaraj

Abstract

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) is a historic law ensuring social security in rural India. It legally guarantees a minimum of 100 days of wage employment annually to rural households. Studies conducted between 2020–2025 clearly indicate that MGNREGA has played a vital role in poverty alleviation, women empowerment, reduction in migration, water conservation, rural infrastructure development, and promotion of sustainable livelihoods. However, challenges such as delayed payments, corruption, low wages, political interference, and the limited effectiveness of social audits persist. Reforms like the expansion of e-governance, local planning, skilled labor development, and increasing the number of workdays can further enhance its impact. MGNREGA continues to embody Gandhi’s vision of Gram Swaraj (village self-rule) in rural India.