India, Jan. 5 -- It is a global fact that MGNREGA, that is, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) of 2005, was and is acclaimed as a global model for social security and public works programs, particularly for its unique rights-based legal framework. For the last 20 years, this entitlement has been utilised by the citizens of the country, especially rural households, to ensure guaranteed wage employment. This constitutional and legal assurance gave the rural household the security of food and, when needed, some cash.

Anyone who cared to examine MGNREGA found that its vision and concept were sound and sustainable. The Act came into existence in 2005 but was officially launched in 2006. For the last 20 years,...