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Rural job scheme takes off
NO LURE: Labourers engaged in desilting a tank at Ichampatti near Tiruchi. —
TIRUCHI: National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS) has taken off in parts of Tiruchi district with those who have enrolled themselves under the scheme airing expectations of a hike in the wages. Under phase I, the scheme is being implemented in 70 panchayats on pilot basis. “We expect a good response to the scheme especially during the non-agricultural season,” says Collector T. Soundiah.
According to J. Dhanasekaran, Project Officer, District Rural Development Agency, works have started in 30 panchayats in the district this week. In 145 panchayats, nearly 30 per cent of the above-18 population have been enrolled. In quite a few villages, those who have enrolled were clearly looking for higher wages, well above the Rs.80 a day offered by government. “We turned up for the work today as our panchayat leaders said we would get some benefits. But most of us earn more, Rs.120 to Rs.150 a day, at nearby rice mills. We would go back to the mills soon if we don’t get more money here,” said Amalorpava Mary of Ichampatti near Tiruchi, one of those who turned up for the first day’s work of desilting a village tank under the scorching sun.
Men of the village claimed that they could earn up to Rs.150 a day. “I get Rs.150 a day by cutting and collecting firewood. I am not sure of continuing here,” says a robust looking 75-year-old Samuel, who too had joined the programme expecting ‘benefits’ from the government.
In villages close to cities and towns, the response seemed to be lukewarm. In Ichampatti, many said that they were persuaded by panchayat leaders to come for the work.
Officials concede that much would depend on the persuasive powers and the interest shown by the panchayat leaders.
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