Government Unveils Major Initiative for Rural Development
Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, led a crucial meeting today with State Rural Development Ministers to discuss the rollout of ‘Viksit Bharat GRAMG.’ Under the direction of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this initiative aims to bolster rural employment, enhance worker security, and promote comprehensive village development. The upcoming changes, set to take effect on July 1, 2026, are designed to ensure a worker-focused transition without any disruptions, as emphasized during the meeting conducted via video conference.
Chouhan highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating that it transcends a mere scheme transition, being vital for the livelihoods of millions. He firmly stated, “not a single worker should remain without work even for a day,” emphasizing that employment generation, wage payments, and workers’ rights must not be compromised.
To support this initiative, the Central Government has allocated ₹30,000 crore to the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) scheme, along with an additional interim allocation of ₹95,692 crore released to various States and Union Territories. This brings the total financial support to over ₹1.25 lakh crore, destined for around 2.80 lakh Gram Panchayats nationwide, ensuring substantial funding for development projects.
Chouhan stressed that these financial resources should be efficiently utilized for development activities as per legislative provisions to guarantee both job creation and asset building in rural areas. He reassured that the Government is dedicated not only to provide funding but also to ensure timely wage distributions and the safeguarding of workers’ rights. He encouraged States to approve sufficient projects in advance, facilitating the swift commencement of implementation from July 1.
On the topic of administrative and digital readiness, he noted that many States have made significant strides in direct benefit transfers (DBT), SMS information systems, electronic Know Your Customer (e-KYC), and face authentication, suggesting that these technologies would aid the effective implementation of the new arrangement.
Twenty-six States have already prepared budget allocations reflecting the goals of ‘Viksit Bharat – Gramin Bharat.’ Chouhan specifically urged Jharkhand, Karnataka, Telangana, and Mizoram to hasten this process, personally committing to write to their Chief Ministers to expedite actions.
He called on States to issue notifications at the earliest; while States like Mizoram, Puducherry, and Andhra Pradesh have exemplified proactive engagement, others must follow suit promptly. States are also directed to ensure the notification of agricultural peak seasons, guarantee 100% e-KYC completion, and organize community training and awareness sessions at district and block levels.
Chouhan explained that project proposals would be selected through local Panchayats and Gram Sabhas, ensuring no decline in employment and wage payments until the new structure is operational.
In the meeting, interim allocations for numerous States were detailed, including significant amounts for Andhra Pradesh (₹7,707.21 crore), Uttar Pradesh (₹12,221.48 crore), and West Bengal (₹8,508.00 crore), which collectively total ₹92,550.17 crore for all States. Additionally, Union Territories received funding allocations amounting to ₹1,291.32 crore.
Chouhan indicated that this comprehensive initiative is essential for creating “Viksit Gaon” as part of achieving a “Viksit Bharat.” The initiative’s effectiveness will rely on the commitment and active engagement of all States.
The Union Minister extended an invitation to all States to attend the upcoming National Rural Development Conference at the PUSA Institute in New Delhi on June 28 and 29, aimed at discussing the successful implementation of this vital initiative. He expressed optimism that with the cooperation of all States, under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the initiative will significantly transform rural India, offering sustainable employment and enhanced livelihoods for millions of workers.
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