7 stories found
The Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin), or VB-G RAM G Act, has come into effect across India from July 1, replacing the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and introducing five significant changes, including state-wise wage adjustments.
Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has defended the VB-G RAM G Act, stating it is an upgraded framework for rural employment with stronger worker safeguards and improved productivity, dismissing opposition protests as a failure.
India's Rural Development Ministry has rejected an RTI request for details on pre-legislative consultations for the VB-G RAM G Act, stating the information cannot be shared as the scheme is not yet formally notified or operational.
The Indian Centre has officially notified new daily wage rates for the VB-G RAM G Act, increasing them from Rs 300 to Rs 450. This rollout includes a full list of new state-wise daily wage rates.
Jairam Ramesh of Congress criticized the Centre's approach to the VB-G RAM G Act, stating that consultations are happening after the announcement and details are still being worked out.
Mallikarjun Kharge has expressed concerns that the VB-G RAM G Act could impose a significant financial burden on states and farmers, noting that several states have questioned its structure and funding model.
The Ministry said it seeks to promote public participation in branding the programme, which is a key pillar of the government’s rural development strategy aligned with the vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047”