VB-G-RAM-G: Self respect scheme for rural poor

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), enacted in 2005 under the UPA government emerged as a landmark law to combat rural unemployment, hunger and migration in India. It transformed from a mere welfare scheme into a legal right, guaranteeing at least 100 days of wage employment per year to every rural household willing to do unskilled manual work. However, over time, serious flaws undermined its goals. 

Corruption plagued implementation: ghost workers, fictitious attendance, diversion of funds to non-local beneficiaries, inflated material costs, bogus payments to suppliers, and delayed wages eroded trust. Enter the new Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin), or VB-G RAM G enacted in 2025 to replace MGNREGA. Key improvements include increasing guaranteed workdays to 125 (potentially up to 150 in drought conditions), prompt wage payments, immediate rectification of issues, transparent material procurement, elimination of ghost beneficiaries and stricter rules against corruption. 

Funding shifts to a shared model (Centre 60%, states 40%), enhancing state accountability and work quality. The scheme pauses during peak agricultural seasons to ensure labor availability for farming, with schedules planned in advance. In states like Telangana, MGNREGA performance lagged badly in 2025, with average workdays dropping to around 27-28 per household (far below 100), a 47.6% decline in person days in early periods, and sharp falls in participation due to deletions, e-KYC issues, and administrative hurdles. By fixing systemic flaws, ensuring transparency, and aligning with Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, it aspires to be a true lifeline for rural India, preventing hunger and despair while fostering sustainable development.

-Pagadala Srinivas