The Rajasthan government has recently introduced the Indira Gandhi Shahri Rozgar Guarantee Yojana, a job scheme for urban areas. This scheme closely mirrors the Mahatma Gandhi NREGA, a well-known employment initiative designed for rural regions. Despite the assistance provided by MGNREGA, there has traditionally been no equivalent program for street vendors, restaurant workers, and other urban employees.
The Details of the Scheme
This new scheme guarantees 100 days of work annually for urban families. The ratio of material cost to worker payment varies depending on the type of work; general labor will have a ratio of 25:75, while specialized jobs will run at 75:25. This layout is intended to maximize employment opportunities while also allowing for the creation of resources under special circumstances.
The Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility for the scheme covers anyone aged between 18 and 60 years who live within urban body limits. In unusual cases, such as during a pandemic or natural disaster, migrant laborers may also be included in this scheme.
Components of the Scheme
The scheme includes various components such as environmental conservation, water conservation, cleanliness and sanitation-related works, works related to defacement of property, convergence, service, and miscellaneous works. These include activities ranging from tree planting and garbage collection to heritage conservation and office record keeping.
Necessity of Urban Social Security
Urban Social Security is imperative for numerous reasons. Firstly, urban areas are significant contributors to India’s economy, accounting for about two-thirds of the nation’s economic output and providing a hub for innovation and foreign direct investment. Secondly, cities attract an array of economic activity and a broad range of culturally or socially diversified groups. Lastly, the cities serve as expanding power centers, drawing resources and influence away from surrounding towns and villages.
Significance of Urban Employment Schemes
Urban employment schemes play a crucial role in strengthening the livelihood base of the urban poor and ensuring their social inclusion. They provide a statutory right to work, thereby guaranteeing the right to life under the Constitution. Furthermore, such programs can spur public investment in towns, boosting local demand, enhancing urban infrastructure and services, restoring urban commons, and increasing the capacity of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
Other Government Initiatives
In addition to the Indira Gandhi Shahri Rozgar Guarantee Yojana, the government has also launched other initiatives such as Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise (SMILE), PM-DAKSH, MGNREGA, Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), and Start Up India Scheme among others. These schemes aim to enhance skills, promote entrepreneurship, and boost rural and urban employment.
A Look Ahead
Moving forward, there is an urgent need to extend the reach of livelihood safety nets to urban areas. Such a net, similar to what MGNREGS provides in rural areas, can be introduced within the existing fiscal space. Urban and rural minimum wage distinctions should not affect migration as the higher cost of living in cities balances out the effect. Emphasis should shift from solely creating assets to delivering quality municipal services for optimal results.
