Latest news with #NREGA


New Indian Express
12 hours ago
- Politics
- New Indian Express
Parliament session: MSP, water disputes on TDP's agenda
VIJAYAWADA: Ahead of the commencement of the Monsoon Session of Parliament from July 22, Chief Minister and TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu chaired a meeting with party MPs at his camp office on Friday. During the meeting, also attended by HRD Minister Nara Lokesh, Naidu and the TDP MPs discussed the strategy to be adopted during the session. Underscoring the importance of utilising the Parliament session effectively, Naidu directed the MPs to intensify efforts to secure necessary funds and advance key developmental projects for the State. He instructed them to raise crucial issues such as the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for farmers, river water disputes, and industrial development during the session. He stressed the need to present the State government's initiatives on these matters to the Centre's attention through Parliament. On the occasion, the Chief Minister lauded the TDP MPs for their consistent attendance, and active engagement in parliamentary proceedings. 'Our MPs are performing commendably. While the national average attendance among MPs stands at 85%, TDP members have surpassed it with 86.2%, placing them at the top nationally,' he said. He noted that TDP MPs lead in both participation in debates and the number of questions raised in Parliament. Furthermore, Naidu encouraged them to continue voicing the State's concerns while also acknowledging the commendable work being undertaken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 'MPs have been assigned responsibilities according to specific departments. You must maintain consistent dialogue with Union Ministers regarding issues and pending matters, while ensuring coordination with the State administration,' he emphasised. Highl ight ing a recent achievement, he noted, 'It was due to continuous consultation that we were able to push Rs 180 crore worth of bills related to NRE GA back into process.' He urged MPs to similarly focus on Central schemes, such as the Jal Jeevan Mission and the Ayushman Bharat Health Mission, to secure additional funds for the State. 'SIT found proof of YSRCP's hand in liquor scam' Pointing to the criminalisation of politics, Naidu said YSRCP chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy's behaviour exemplifies the dangers of allowing criminals into politics. Revealing that the SIT inquiry into the liquor scam during the previous YSRCP regime is nearing completion, Naidu informed the MPs that the crime committed by the then-ruling party leaders has been proven with all evidence.

The Wire
a day ago
- Business
- The Wire
Explore How Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan Works and Enjoy Assured Cashback Till 31st July During the Gold Loan Utsav
Pune (Maharashtra) [India], July 18: In today's fast-paced world, meeting financial needs—planned or unexpected—requires quick, simple solutions. One such trusted and growing option in India is the gold loan. Whether it is funding a child's education, covering a medical emergency, or managing unplanned home repairs, a gold loan offers a smart way to unlock the value of gold jewellery without selling it. This July, Bajaj Finance has launched the Gold Loan Utsav to make the borrowing journey more rewarding. As part of this special campaign, individuals can enjoy assured cashback till 31st July 2025 and avail funds ranging from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 2 crore against 18-22 karat gold jewellery to meet planned or unplanned expenses. They also benefit from easy gold loan eligibility and competitive gold loan interest rates, along with access to an online gold loan calculator that makes financial planning easier. What is a gold loan? A gold loan is a secured loan where borrowers pledge their gold jewellery as collateral to receive funds. The loan amount is based on the weight and purity of the gold. This makes it one of the fastest and simplest ways to raise money, especially in emergencies. The gold remains safe in the lender's custody and is returned once the loan is repaid. For those asking, 'What is a gold loan?'—it is essentially a short-term loan given against gold ornaments, making it ideal for anyone in need of quick liquidity. The Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan stands out by offering competitive interest rates, minimal documentation, and quick disbursal. Why gold loans are gaining popularity There are times when one may need urgent funds—whether for medical treatment, education fees, or unexpected home expenses. Instead of dipping into their savings or selling cherished valuables, a gold loan offers a smart and secure option. By simply pledging their gold, individuals can get quick access to money with minimal paperwork. Since the loan is backed by gold jewellery, the process is fast, straightforward, and easy to qualify for, making it a practical choice for many. Understanding gold loan eligibility One of the key benefits of a gold loan is how simple it is to qualify. To meet the basic eligibility criteria, one only needs to be an Indian citizen aged between 21 and 70 years. The process is quick and requires very little paperwork. As part of the required gold loan documents, borrowers just need to submit any one valid ID or address proof from the accepted list. This minimal documentation makes applying for a gold loan easy and stress-free: • Aadhaar Card • Voter ID • Passport • Driving licence • NREGA job card • Letter from the National Population Registration PAN card is not mandatory. However, the applicant applies for a gold loan of Rs. 5 lakh or above, they will be asked to submit their PAN card as well. At Bajaj Finance, individuals can avail of gold loans starting from ₹5,000 and going up to ₹2 crore, based on the value of their pledged gold. During the Gold Loan Utsav, the process is even more seamless, wherein the customers can walk into a branch or apply online, where their gold is securely evaluated in their presence. What makes Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan a wise financial option? The Gold Loan Utsav is a specially curated experience that makes availing a gold loan easier, faster, and more convenient. Here is what makes it truly beneficial: • Part-release facility: Repay a portion of the loan and take back the equivalent amount of gold jewellery before the loan ends. • Zero prepayment and foreclosure charges: Make part or full repayments at any time without any extra fees. • Transparent gold evaluation: The gold is assessed using precise tools to ensure fair valuation at every branch. • Free jewellery insurance: The pledged gold remains insured against theft or loss while in their custody. • Multiple repayment plans: Choose to pay interest monthly, bi-monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, or annually. The principal is payable at the end. • Simple online application: Start the application online and complete it at the branch with expert help. • Loan renewal option: Renew the gold loan at the end of the tenure, based on revaluation and current LTV guidelines. • Top-up facility: Get a top-up on the ongoing loan, subject to eligibility, before the current loan matures. Plan better, borrow smarter In times of financial need, gold loans offer a responsible and secure option. And during the Gold Loan Utsav, the benefits only multiply. By checking their gold loan eligibility and using tools like the gold loan calculator, borrowers can borrow with clarity and confidence. Gold that lies idle in their locker can now help them achieve their short-term goals. With the right guidance and reliable service from Bajaj Finance, managing money through a gold loan becomes easy, smart, and rewarding. Apply for a gold loan today! T&C Apply. About Bajaj Finance Limited Bajaj Finance Ltd. ('BFL', 'Bajaj Finance', or 'the Company'), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL is engaged in the business of lending and acceptance of deposits. It has a diversified lending portfolio across retail, SMEs, and commercial customers with significant presence in both urban and rural India. It accepts public and corporate deposits and offers a variety of financial services products to its customers. BFL, a thirty-five-year-old enterprise, has now become a leading player in the NBFC sector in India and on a consolidated basis, it has a franchise of 80.41 million customers. Bajaj Finance has a credit rating of AAA/Stable for its Fixed Deposit program from CRISIL and ICRA, AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing from CRISIL, India Ratings, CARE and ICRA, and A1 for short-term borrowing from CRISIL, India Ratings and ICRA. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BBB-/Stable and a short-term rating of A-3 by S&P Global ratings. To know more, visit (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PNN and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.).


Hans India
2 days ago
- Politics
- Hans India
Congress slams govt over problems in MGNREGA app
New Delhi: The Congress on Thursday hit out at the Modi government over the 'operational problems' related to the National Mobile Monitoring System application in MGNREGA for digital verification of attendance and works, and demanded the immediate withdrawal of the 'unworkable' as well as 'counterproductive' model. Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said FAST is the self-declared motto of the Modi government and it actually stands for - 'First Announce Second Think'. In May 2022, the Modi government introduced the National Mobile Monitoring System (NMMS) app in MGNREGA for digital verification of attendance and works, and ever since this was done the Congress had been highlighting the operational problems with NMMS and how it was damaging the letter and spirit of MGNREGA, Ramesh said in a statement. 'Now in a notification issued on July 8th 2025 the Union Ministry of Rural Development has finally acknowledged the various problems associated with the NMMS. It was clear from the beginning that uploading photographs from NREGA worksites would end up excluding genuine workers whose photos could not be uploaded due to connectivity issues,' he said. Further, the NMMS cannot stop 'fake workers' appearing on the muster rolls, as fake workers can go twice a day to be photographed, get paid without working for a minute, he pointed out. 'What has come to light -- that fake and random photos are being uploaded --? only demonstrating the absolute uselessness of the NMMS,' Ramesh said. However, the Modi government, post its acknowledgment of the issue, has identified solutions that are worse than the problem, he said. The NMMS photos will now also be backed by physical verification by officers in-charge, he said, adding this proposed solution is going to waste the precious time of NREGA functionaries, from top to bottom. Either they can verify photos, as is being mandated by the latest order, or they can perform their regular duties, he argued. Ramesh pointed out that the Congress has consistently demanded several key changes to the Union government's implementation of MGNREGA, and the Parliamentary Standing Committee for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj has echoed several of these, including immediate withdrawal of the unworkable and counterproductive NMMS model based on photo uploads and reaffirmation of task-based payments which is the essence of MGNREGA.
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Business Standard
3 days ago
- Politics
- Business Standard
First announce second think: Congress slams govt over problems in NMMS app
The Congress on Thursday hit out at the Modi government over the "operational problems" related to the National Mobile Monitoring System application in MGNREGA for digital verification of attendance and works, and demanded the immediate withdrawal of the "unworkable" as well as "counterproductive" model. Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said FAST is the self-declared motto of the Modi government and it actually stands for - "First Announce Second Think". In May 2022, the Modi government introduced the National Mobile Monitoring System (NMMS) app in MGNREGA for digital verification of attendance and works, and ever since this was done the Congress had been highlighting the operational problems with NMMS and how it was damaging the letter and spirit of MGNREGA, Ramesh said in a statement. "Now in a notification issued on July 8th 2025 the Union Ministry of Rural Development has finally acknowledged the various problems associated with the NMMS. It was clear from the beginning that uploading photographs from NREGA worksites would end up excluding genuine workers whose photos could not be uploaded due to connectivity issues," he said. Further, the NMMS cannot stop "fake workers" appearing on the muster rolls, as fake workers can go twice a day to be photographed, get paid without working for a minute, he pointed out. "What has come to light -- that fake and random photos are being uploaded --? only demonstrating the absolute uselessness of the NMMS," Ramesh said. However, the Modi government, post its acknowledgment of the issue, has identified solutions that are worse than the problem, he said. The NMMS photos will now also be backed by physical verification by officers in-charge, he said, adding this proposed solution is going to waste the precious time of NREGA functionaries, from top to bottom. Either they can verify photos, as is being mandated by the latest order, or they can perform their regular duties, he argued. Ramesh pointed out that the Congress has consistently demanded several key changes to the Union government's implementation of MGNREGA, and the Parliamentary Standing Committee for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj has echoed several of these, including immediate withdrawal of the unworkable and counterproductive NMMS model based on photo uploads and reaffirmation of task-based payments which is the essence of MGNREGA. He said, amidst a decade-long crisis of stagnant wages, an increase in MGNREGA wages - as envisioned in the Congress Nyay Patra for the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections - assumes renewed importance. MGNREGA wages must rise to reach ₹400 per day, Ramesh asserted. The Aadhar Based Payment Bridge Systems (ABPS) must not be made mandatory, he added. Wages must be paid within the statutory period of 15 days and any delay in payment must be compensated, Ramesh said. In April this year, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Rural Development and Panchayati Raj tabled a report in Parliament, recommending increasing the number of days of work under the scheme to 150 from the current 100, and also suggested that wages be increased to at least Rs 400 per day. The panel, which has been expressing concern over stagnation in allocation to the flagship rural employment scheme, has also stressed on social audits to ensure its proper implementation.


Time of India
4 days ago
- General
- Time of India
ZP Ngp plants over 2 lakh trees in a day, sets new record for ‘Green Maharashtra'
Nagpur: Zilla Parishad (ZP) Nagpur made a powerful statement for environmental action by planting 2,00,076 trees across the district in a single day on Tuesday. The drive, part of the 'Green Maharashtra, Prosperous Maharashtra' mission, marks a major milestone toward the district's annual target of 5 lakh trees for 2025. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The initiative was launched following an appeal by state revenue-cum-guardian minister of Nagpur district Chandrashekhar Bawankule. Zilla Parishad CEO Vinayak Mahamuni led the campaign with a clear strategy of delegating responsibilities across departments and ensuring tight coordination. Collector Vipin Itankar and CEO Mahamuni actively participated in the event held at Khasala Gram Panchayat, Kamthi Taluka, boosting the momentum on the ground. Seedlings were mainly supplied by the social forestry and forest departments, while additional plants were purchased through NREGA. Under the special initiative 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam,' saplings were distributed to students of Zilla Parishad schools. Every Anganwadi contributed by planting two saplings. Deputy CEO of the Gram Panchayat Department, Kapil Kalode, confirmed that plantation activities will continue in phases. A standout feature of the campaign is the creation of artificial sacred groves — Devrai and Ghanvan — using the Miyawaki method in Kamptee, Nagpur (Rural), and Parshivani. These will help strengthen biodiversity and maintain ecological balance. The key departments involved included Gram Panchayat, education, health, animal husbandry, irrigation, construction, women and child welfare, agriculture, general administration, and MSRLM. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The campaign was powered through NREGA and other development schemes. To ensure smooth execution, taluka supervision officers were appointed from department heads, along with local supervisors at the gram panchayat level. This landmark effort not only sets a record for single-day plantation in the district but also reinforces the region's commitment to long-term environmental sustainability.