ISSUE

RECOMMENDATION

Need for state act

Every state should pass its own act on the basis of the central act within a specified time limit

Definition of “household” needs modification

The term “household” should be replaced by “family”.  Family means husband and wife and children. Every adult dependent member in the family will be entitled to register for work and  single parent / female headed family will also be entitled.

Entitlement of Employment Seekers

Every family will be entitled to 100 days of employment. Dependent adult member will be entitled to 50 days of employment.

Wages

Payment of wages should be made within seven days

Accountability structure

CEO / CDO of District Panchayat would be accountable.  Wherever District Panchayat does not exist, District Collector is to be made responsible

Contractors

Under no circumstances should Contractors be allowed

Cost Component

Material cost should not exceed 30% of the aggregate expenditure at all levels.

Cash vs. Kind wages

At least one-fourth of the wages have to be paid in cash.

Process of registration and application

Registration should be done through enumeration. Application for work could be an intimation at Panchayat level in the manner as may be prescribed under the rules.

Unemployment allowance

Scrutiny of Claims and disbursement should be made at Gram Panchayat level as prescribed in the rules.

Payment Of Wages

Payment of wages should be made as per statutory minimum wage and should not be paid on piece-rate basis.

Funding

Both Central and State Governments should contribute.

Implementation

Shall only be through Government Agencies or local bodies.

Disabled Persons

Disabled persons are eligible for work allotment.  Provision for suitable works should be made.

Asset Creation

May include works for individuals resulting in creation of assets for them  (SC/ST and other disadvantaged). The term ‘durable assets’ may be changed to assets.

Maintenance Of Assets

At present there is no provision for maintenance of assets.  This has to be included.

Penal Clauses

The Act should not have any Penal Clauses for the wage seekers.