Visit worksites before preparation of work estimate: Th Biswajit
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR

Imphal, May 28 2020: Technical Assistants of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme should visit worksites before preparation of work estimate, said Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Thongam Biswajit Singh today.

The Minister was addressing a one-day meeting cum interaction programme on preparation of work estimates, schedule of rates, etc.

which was held at the Panchayat Bhavan, SIRD Campus Porompat.

Biswajit elaborated that visit to the worksites will help the Technical Assistants in understanding the nature of work and help them in preparation of estimates of projects.

He further instructed the Technical Assistants and the officials concerned to start preparing estimates for 100 days so that the preparation can be concluded during the rainy days.

This will ensure that uninterrupted works can be undertaken soon after the rainy season.

Biswajit also said that increase of man-power is under consideration.

During the meeting, schedule of rates and other issues were also discussed.

DPCs and Technical Assistants also raised their concerns and issues.

At the same time, Biswajit also expressed the need to ensure proper protocols are followed while executing works including physical distancing and usage of masks and hand sanitizers.

He further said that DPCs should ensure that workers are utilized in batches so that physical distancing is maintained at the work-sites.

He further expressed the need to focus on the utilization of information education and communication fund of the scheme to spread awareness on how to maintain Government protocols and guidelines during the COVID pandemic.

He said hoardings should be put up in the rural areas in this regard.

Biswajit said the MGNREGS is a wages oriented scheme, and it will help in financially supporting the rural population during this lockdown period.

He also instructed the DPCs to conduct frequent meetings with the GRS for the smooth implementation of the scheme.

Deputy Secretary RD&PR Lalrobul Fimate said that RD&PR Minister has proposed improvement of individual beneficiary livelihood improvement under the MGNREGS by taking up certain activities under Animal Husbandry, Horticulture, Housing, Fisheries, Sericulture, plantation of lemongrass and citronella.

He continued that during a video conferencing with the Central Ministry on Wednesday, the Minister's proposal was reflected in a directive of the Central Ministry.

He said that the Centre has asked all States to emphasis and give focus on individual beneficiary work, which is likely to be turned into livelihood activities.

Today's meeting was also attended by Additional Chief Secretary MH Khan, BDOs, MGNREGS officials, among others.

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