Bhopal, Dec 22 (NationPress) Union Minister for Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced on Monday that the government has elevated the allocation for administrative expenses from 6 percent to 9 percent to ensure that Rozgar Sahayaks receive their salaries on time.

The minister highlighted that the issue of delayed payments to employment assistants, panchayat secretaries, and technical staff had been a significant concern. To address this, the government has made a critical decision to boost the administrative budget, ensuring timely salary disbursement.

The allocation has been increased by 1.5 times, with over Rs 13,000 crore from the total proposed budget of Rs 1,51,282 crore designated for employee salaries and administrative needs.

Chouhan emphasized that this budget would adequately cover salary payments, with strict measures to avoid wastage in administrative spending. He mentioned that rigorous monitoring will be introduced to prevent unnecessary expenditures on vehicles and other non-essential items.

Following concerns raised by Rozgar Sahayaks regarding salary delays, provisions have been established to prioritize salary payments. Necessary directives will be issued in collaboration with state governments.

Boosting administrative expenditure is a significant step toward alleviating the challenges faced by colleagues at the grassroots level.

Chouhan also urged employment assistants to effectively relay this message and assured them that upon reviewing their suggestions with state governments, further enhancements would be made for staff working at the panchayat level.

Additionally, the minister noted that the Viksit Bharat-G RAM G scheme has transitioned from a bill to an Act after receiving presidential assent.

He mentioned that there are efforts by some to sow confusion about this scheme, stressing the importance of disseminating accurate information to every village.

Under the MGNREGA, the guarantee of 100 days of employment has been extended to 125 days through the 'Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana'.

This extension is not merely an increase in days but a reinforcement of the employment guarantee. Additionally, provisions for unemployment allowance have been considerably strengthened.

Strict measures have also been introduced concerning wage payments. If wages are not disbursed within 15 days, workers will receive additional compensation for overdue amounts.

Delays in wage payments will no longer be tolerated. Timely wage disbursement is assured, with current rates maintained and annual increases implemented.

The Union Minister outlined that under this scheme, four categories of work will be undertaken. The first category focuses on water conservation projects, including the construction of ponds and check dams.

The second category encompasses essential village infrastructure developments such as schools, hospitals, Anganwadi centers, roads, drains, and other facilities. Infrastructure to support women involved in the livelihood mission and FPOs will also be prioritized.

The third category will focus on livelihood-based activities aimed at enhancing employment opportunities, while the fourth will involve disaster protection projects, including retaining walls and drainage systems.