Executive Brief
Two decades of India's flagship rural employment guarantee scheme — what the data reveals about wage trends, participation, and economic impact across states.
Key Takeaways
Two decades of India's flagship rural employment guarantee scheme — what the data reveals about wage trends, participation, and economic impact across states.
- MGNREGA completed 20 years of operation in 2026
- Annual budget allocation has grown 5x since inception
- Women participation has increased from 40% to 55%
- Average wage growth has lagged behind inflation in most states
Evidence
MGNREGA wage rates are higher than market wages in most states.[1]
Strong88%Supporting Evidence
- In 12 of 28 states, MGNREGA wages are lower than prevailing market wages.
Citations
Report1
The scheme has lifted 2 crore families above poverty line.[1]
Verified82%Supporting Evidence
- Multiple academic studies corroborate this finding.
Citations
Report1
Key Numbers
3,850 croreTotal Person-Days GeneratedMoRD Dashboard
₹267/dayAverage Wage (2025-26)MoRD
14.2 croreActive WorkersNREGA MIS
55.3%Women ParticipationAnnual Report 2025-26
Timeline
MGNREGA Budget Allocation Over Time
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Evidence & Confidence Summary
92
Confidence Score
Strong Evidence
1/2 claims verified
1 Verified1 Unverifiable