State to seek SC nod to continue MGNREGA works

Bengaluru: The cabinet Thursday decided to approach the Supreme Court seeking permission to continue implementation of schemes under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005 (MGNREGA) and to prepare an action plan for the current fiscal. The govt had earmarked Rs 2,475 crore for the programme, even as it flagged the absence of clarity from the Centre after the scheme was scrapped on March 31. Law and parliamentary affairs minister HK Patil said the decision to move court follows the Centre's delay in issuing a notification for the new scheme, Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (VB Gram G), which is expected to replace the existing framework. He said the only communication received so far is a circular allowing states to continue ongoing work. He said the Centre has only sought information on pending work but has not outlined funding or operational arrangements for the transition period. Patil said the absence of a notified alternative has created an administrative gap. "In the interests of the public, MGNREGA is necessary, and we will request the court to allow us to frame an action plan," Patil said. Patil said the Centre's delay in issuing a formal notification on VB Gram G affects the constitutional role of states in ensuring rural employment. The cabinet also approved the formation of a sub-committee to implement recommendations of the State Education Policy (SEP) Commission. The panel, chaired by Sukhadeo Thorat, had previously presented its report, which was discussed after being circulated among ministers on April 30. The cabinet also cleared several infrastructure and tourism-related projects under the public-private partnership (PPP) model. These include the immersive room and digital guide initiative at Mysuru zoo and Bannerghatta Biological Park (BPP) in Bengaluru, with allocations of Rs 44.6 crore and Rs 35.2 crore respectively. The govt also approved Rs 144 crore for a public aquarium at BBP. The project will be developed on a design, build, finance, operate and transfer basis over a 30-year period. The immersive room project was described as a digital facility using 360-degree projection, audio and lighting systems to create a fully simulated environment experience for visitors.