The Nagaland State Social Audit Agency, in collaboration with the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) Phek, conducted the 2nd Phase Social Audit District Level Public Hearing program for the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) financial year 2023-24. The event was held at the DRDA conference Hall in Phek on 12 September 2023, DIPR stated.

A total of 12 villages under Sekruzu Block, including Ruzazho, New Ruzazhu, Phugwi, Dzulhami, Khutsami, Runguzu Nasa, Runguzu Nawe, Thevopisu, Chozuba, Suthozu Nasa, Zuthozu Nawe, and Khusomi villages, were audited during the day-long Social Audit exercise.

Kelanu Thapo (District Resource Person) presented the findings of the Social Audit, which were then reviewed during the public hearing.

Issues related to mismatches between records in the Management Information System (MIS) and those in the RD Block office, as well as concerns related to Job Cards, were reviewed and discussed.

N. Joshua Tikhir, EAC representing the District Administration as an observer, urged the RD department to take corrective measures for households without Job Cards identified in the villages. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining proper records at the village level.

The program was chaired by Vihesanuo Solo, Project Director of DRDA Phek. Imlirenla Sanglir, Assistant Director at NSSAA (Nagaland State Social Audit Agency), Social Audit Unit, delivered the introductory speech, highlighting the significance of Social Audit as an integral part of MGNREGA programs and schemes.

Responses and insights on the Social Audit discussions under MGNREGA were provided by Lakiumong Quinger, Project Director of DRDA, and Chitsoru Vasa, DBO (District Block Officer).

The event saw active participation from MGNREGA beneficiaries, village functionaries, and Village Level Organizations (VLOs), underscoring the importance of transparency and accountability in rural development programs.