Correct Answer: 2005

Solution : The correct answer is (b) 2005

The National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) was passed by the Parliament of India on September 7, 2005, and it came into effect from February 2, 2006. The act aims to provide a legal guarantee of 100 days of wage employment per year to every rural household whose adult members are willing to do unskilled manual work.

NREGA is a significant social welfare and employment generation program that seeks to enhance the livelihood security of rural households, address rural poverty, and promote sustainable development in rural areas. It provides employment opportunities and a source of income to rural households, especially during periods of agricultural and employment-related distress.

The act has provisions for ensuring transparency, accountability, and public participation in the implementation of rural employment projects. It is an important tool for poverty alleviation and rural development in India.