Union Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan | Photo source: PTI
The Minister of Welfare and Rural Development of Trade Unions, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, informed that within the scope of the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) in Mahatma Gandhi, the removal of water hyacinths, which is a perennial aquatic weed.
Earlier, MP Kodikunnil Suresh, wrote to the minister, requesting the removal of water hyacinth from the body of water in the Kutanad region of Kerala under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). In response, Mr. Chouhan cites legal restrictions. He said that according to existing guidelines, MGNREGA does not allow removal of hyacinths.
“I have received a review of the ministry. Under Schedule 1, paragraph 4(3) of the MGNREGA Act 2005, these works are inviolable, immeasurable and repetitive, such as weed removal, pebbles and agricultural actions, and the types of waters shall not be removed. In the list of permitted work under MGNREGS,” said Mr Chouhan.
Mr. Suresh was disappointed with the Ministry’s explanation and response. “Water hyacinth has become a serious ecological and livelihood challenge for Kuttanad. It affects farmers and fishermen and seriously undermines inland water navigation. This poses a major threat to agriculture and public health. Denied employment opportunities that drive out such threats under MGNREGA is a serious injustice to rural communities,” Mgnrega has become serious injustice to rural communities. ”
He urged the Centre to reconsider the guidelines and adopt a regionally specific approach that would allow inclusion of ecosystem restoration activities such as removal of water hyacinths. Mr Suresh added: “Manual removal of aquatic weeds can provide sustainable employment opportunities for thousands of rural workers and help protect the fragile ecosystem in Kuttanad.”
publishing – May 19, 2025 02:55 pm ist
