One of the major features of MGNREGA is its legally-backed guarantee for any rural adult to get work within ________ of demanding it, failing which an ‘unemployment allowance’ must be given.

Solution

Explanation: MGNREGA is one of the largest work guarantee programmes in the world launched in 2005 by the Ministry of Rural development. The primary objective of the scheme is to guarantee 100 days of employment in every financial year to adult members of any rural household willing to do public work-related unskilled manual work. The most important part of MGNREGA’s design is its legally-backed guarantee for any rural adult to get work within 15 days of demanding it, failing which an ‘unemployment allowance’ must be given. This demand-driven scheme enables the self-selection of workers. Decentralised planning: There is an emphasis on strengthening the process of decentralisation by giving a significant role in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in planning and implementing these works. The act mandates Gram sabhas to recommend the works that are to be undertaken and at least 50% of the works must be executed by them.