The Ministry of Rural Development has revealed that cumulative persondays under the rural employment scheme fell 32% in July and August, sliding from 29.78 crore in the previous year to 20.21 crore. The dip is linked to a 60‑day halt in agricultural work, which curtailed job opportunities.
Although July saw a slight increase compared to June, the overall monthly figures remain below the targets set for 2025. Officials noted that the pause was due to seasonal factors affecting agricultural productivity.
The ministry plans to address the shortfall by expanding employment opportunities in non‑agricultural activities and by accelerating scheme implementation in affected districts.
