MGNREGA Work Demand: 21.8 Million Households and Fund Gaps
Why in the news
Work demand under MGNREGA stayed high in early 2025 while funds ran short, raising fears of payment delays.
Key facts
- Households seeking work: 21.8 million in February 2025, up 3% year on year.
- Net negative balance: ₹18,681.24 crore on 3 March 2025.
- Pending dues: ₹14,239.17 crore; unskilled wages ₹929.14 crore (6.52%), rest mostly material costs.
| State | Negative balance (₹ crore) |
|---|---|
| Tamil Nadu | 3,443 |
| Uttar Pradesh | 2,817 |
| Maharashtra | 2,758 |
| Bihar | 2,082 |
Concerns
- High demand signals rural distress.
- Delays can hurt livelihoods and project completion; more allocation may be needed.
Exam angle
- State with the highest negative balance: Tamil Nadu.
- Wage share in pending dues: 6.52%.