Priyanka Gandhi, Chaturvedi Criticize Centre Over Proposed MGNREGA Renaming
Opposition leaders call the proposed renaming of MGNREGA to ‘Pujya Bapu Rural Employment Scheme’ costly, unnecessary, and a political distraction.
Bihar, Dec 13 : Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi on Saturday voiced strong criticism against reports that the Centre plans to rename the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) as the “Pujya Bapu Rural Employment Scheme.”
Addressing the media, Priyanka Gandhi called the move “unnecessary” and highlighted the financial burden it would impose. “I can’t understand the rationale behind this. First, this is Mahatma Gandhi’s name. Changing it means government resources will be spent again on office materials, stationery, and signage. It’s a costly process with no clear benefit,” she said.
Priyanka Chaturvedi echoed similar concerns, calling the renaming a political distraction aimed at diverting public attention. Speaking to ANI, she said, “Such decisions are being made out of frustration and serve as a way to mislead the public. Renaming MGNREGA undermines the respect for the Gandhi family and distracts from more pressing issues.”
About MGNREGA:
Launched under the Ministry of Rural Development, MGNREGA guarantees a minimum of 100 days of wage employment per financial year to rural households whose adult members volunteer for unskilled work. Eligible Indian citizens aged 18 and above residing in rural areas can apply, with wages directly deposited into their bank or post office accounts within 7–15 days. Men and women receive equal pay. The scheme is implemented nationwide, except in fully urban districts.
