Jharkhand News: Lack of Action on JCB Machinery in MGNREGA Breaches Department Orders

Ranchi, November 04, 2024: Despite repeated instructions from the Rural Development Department, the use of JCB machines in MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act) projects continues unabated. This violation undermines MGNREGA’s commitment to providing manual labor opportunities to rural households, as machinery use is prohibited under the program.

Recent reports from Hazaribagh’s Ichak Block reveal that contractors still deploy JCB machines for MGNREGA projects, disregarding guidelines intended to safeguard employment for local workers. Although the department issued a clear directive in December 2023 to curb machinery use, compliance remains an issue, with enforcement measures reportedly lacking.

No Action Taken Despite Complaints of MGNREGA Machinery Violations

The Rural Development Department has acknowledged receiving numerous complaints from districts where JCB usage in MGNREGA projects is widespread. Officials are instructed to uphold MGNREGA regulations, including the prohibition of machinery. Despite directives, however, no significant actions have been taken against those responsible, leading to frustration within the department and concerns over policy effectiveness.

Deputy Development Commissioners (DDCs) have been instructed to enforce stricter monitoring and penalize violators. Department officials have also directed local authorities to ensure compliance with MGNREGA rules and to recover funds from contractors found in violation. Nonetheless, the lack of timely action has led to continuous misuse, affecting the program’s intended impact.

Issues Reported in MGNREGA Work Sites: Muster Rolls, Medical Kits

Beyond machinery violations, inspections have highlighted other procedural shortcomings in MGNREGA projects. Instances where muster rolls are missing at work sites have been noted, complicating attendance tracking and raising questions about transparency. Additionally, some worksites lack essential facilities such as medical kits, which are mandatory to ensure worker safety.

These lapses not only contravene MGNREGA guidelines but also raise broader concerns regarding oversight and accountability. The department has reiterated its commitment to enforcing MGNREGA’s standards across all districts and maintaining worksite safety.

MGNREGA Directives Not Followed, Department Urges Strict Enforcement

The Rural Development Department has issued strong reminders to district administrations about the need for strict adherence to MGNREGA guidelines. Authorities stress the importance of enforcing rules consistently, as the program’s success depends on adhering to its fundamental principles. By prioritizing manual labor, MGNREGA aims to provide rural employment, a goal compromised by continued machine usage.

As the Rural Development Department intensifies its focus on enforcement, it remains to be seen whether compliance will improve across Jharkhand. The department’s call for action underscores the importance of adhering to MGNREGA policies to fulfill the program’s core mission of employment generation.