MGNREGA, the lynchpin of rural poverty alleviation, has become the victim of fiscal apathy. Critically analyze the statement in light of recent developments.

Issues: (1) Financial apathy - 0.8% of GDP is allocated to MGNREGA (Budget 2023) - Local should be atleast 1.6% as per world bank - Decreased budgetary allocation from previous year budget (2) Wage delays and compensation allowances are also not given (3) Caste issue - wage delays are more in castes like SC (76%) and ST (87%) (4) The technical approaches like UMMIS improved attendance through IT has added to the woes of workers (Illiterates and have less knowledge) (5) Poor job cards and exclusion errors (helping names) (6) Poor implementation and monitoring of works - Many incomplete and low quality works are done. MGNREGA is important for inclusive growth and should be implemented purely with increased land allocations and a similar alternative should be for urban unskilled labour