A meeting chaired by Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on NREGA implementation was held in New Delhi, addressing critical issues like delayed payments, deletion of job cards, and fund stoppages. The brainstorming session included input from civil society, workers, and government officials.

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• Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized better coordination to curb fraud and improve implementation.
• 2.25 crore job cards deleted in FY 2022-23; 1.02 crore in FY 2023-24.
• Concerns raised about deletion without proper verification, harming trust in the system.
• Delayed wage payments and low rates leading to worker dropouts and distress migration.
• Civil society organizations called for streamlined payment processes and social audits.
• Workers highlighted issues with Aadhaar-Based Payment System (ABPS) and job card deletion.
• West Bengal funds stopped since December 2021 due to alleged fund misuse.
• Suggestion made for a committee of ruling and opposition members, along with civil society, to investigate.
• Chouhan noted improved coordination can deliver more jobs without additional funds.
• Meeting saw active participation of NREGA workers, state nodal officers, and ministry officials.