Thiruvananthapuram 17-11-2011: CM today published the study report of Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai regarding the Employment Guarantee Scheme in four districts of the state. CM presented the report to Minister K.C Joseph. The report was prepared based on the instructions of MNREGS.

Study was conducted in 60 panchayaths of Palakkad, Wayanad, Kasargode and Idukki districts. Project team leader Dr. Jyothi Krishnan presented before CM their report that encompassed the problems faced by the workers and ways to resolve these issues. They put forward the suggestion of conducting social audit at Panchayath level to resolve these issues.

The major problem that the workers face is delay in getting the payment. Though the rule prefers opening a zero balance account to receive wages through banks, several panchayaths are insisting deposit amount to open accounts.

Since 48% of the workers are women the work place and work must be women friendly. The tools too need to be women friendly. Crush facility should be introduced for children and strict monitoring of job cards should be done are the other suggestions in the report.

CM said that the worker’s choice to open a bank account in any bank of their choice would be protected. Instruction will be given to give the workers at least Rs 100 as wage on the same day of the work itself. The rest of the amount will be given along with proper travel allowance.

 TISS Director Dr S Parasuraman and Assistant Professor C T Saritha were also present.