The Himachal Pradesh government has strongly opposed the central government's decision to rename the MGNREGA program to 'VB-G RAM G' and change its funding structure.

Opposition to New Norms

State Rural Development Minister Anirudh Singh stated that the new rules shift the financial burden to states and reduce the guaranteed number of workdays. According to estimates, Himachal Pradesh will face additional annual expenses of Rs 164 crore (approximately 1.64 billion).

Key grievances:

  • Increased state budget burden — states must now cover costs previously paid by the center.
  • Lower wages — the new wage calculation formula may reduce worker payments.
  • Reduced guaranteed workdays — the number of days the government must provide employment is decreased.

Context of the Reform

MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act) is one of the world's largest guaranteed employment programs in rural areas. The renaming to 'VB-G RAM G' and the change in funding model, according to the opposition, undermines social guarantees.

The state government intends to seek a review of the central decisions to protect the interests of rural residents.

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Sources

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