Punjab Cm Mann Grants Full Nrega Wages For Home Tasks In Landmark Social Reform

Punjab News: In a historic decision, NREGA workers will now receive full daily wages even when working inside their homes. Tasks such as building toilets, repairing roofs, fixing floors, or basic structure improvements will be eligible for ₹346 per day. If a worker completes 90 days of approved home-based work, ₹31,140 will be transferred directly to their account. This measure has been described as a major relief for poor families struggling to find outside work opportunities due to physical or domestic limitations. It adds dignity and stability to their livelihood.

 Will Rural Development Accelerate Soon?

Earlier, NREGA covered only external works like road construction, pond cleaning, canal clearance, and plantation. Now farmers can also get paid for bund making, well digging, or water conservation work in their fields. By allowing wages for self-managed development, local assets will improve without extra labour costs. Experts predict reduced migration and better village infrastructure. The scheme is being viewed as an opportunity to directly benefit farming households and boost rural resilience.

Is Payment Fully Transparent Now?

All payments will be deposited into bank or post office accounts, eliminating middlemen. Each registered worker is guaranteed at least 100 days of employment per financial year. If work is not provided within 15 days, unemployment allowance must be paid. Officials will maintain complete digital records to avoid misuse. Authorities have been instructed to strengthen the monitoring system, ensuring correct implementation and fair access to wages. Workers are expected to receive due compensation without delay.

Will Women Benefit The Most?

With 33 percent of total NREGA work reserved for women, this update is expected to bring more female participation. Previously, many women could not work due to childcare or household responsibilities. Now they can perform eligible labour at home and still earn wages. Facilities such as drinking water, shade, medical aid, and crèche services remain mandatory at external sites. The reform is being seen as a step towards women’s financial independence and empowerment at the grassroots level.

 Can Homes Improve While Working?

The new rule allows poor families to enhance their living spaces while earning income. Repairs, sanitation improvements, and strengthening of basic structures can now be funded through wages. Farmers can also reinforce agricultural fields through bunding or irrigation work. This initiative may uplift hygiene, storage systems, and habitat quality across villages. Officials believe this decision will simultaneously improve both lifestyle and employment. It is being seen as a practical dual-benefit model.

Is Registration Process Still Easy?

Registration for NREGA remains free. Any rural resident aged above 18 willing to perform manual work can apply. The job card must be issued within 15 days of request. CM Bhagwant Mann urged all eligible households to register immediately and not miss this opportunity. The program remains open to all, without restrictions of caste or gender. Rural citizens say the scheme gives them dignity rather than just financial support.

 Will Monitoring Ensure Fair Use?

Experts suggest that strict monitoring will be essential for the scheme’s success. The Punjab government has announced the formation of review teams to track work authenticity. Mann said this decision could set a national example if executed with honesty. By enabling earnings from home, the state expects families to become more self-reliant. Many believe this move will unlock new livelihood opportunities and reduce dependency on urban migration over coming years.