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Introduction of Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission Gramin (VB-GRAM G)
Thursday, 11 June 2026
Key Points
Last Updated: 11-06-2026. The Union Rural Development Minister has announced an interim allocation of ₹95,692 crore for the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission Gramin (VB-GRAM G), replacing the MGNREGS. This is crucial for UPSC aspirants, especially for GS Paper 2 and GS Paper 3, focusing on governance and economic development.
Key Facts About VB-GRAM G
- The Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission Gramin is a new scheme replacing MGNREGS, effective from 1st July 2026.
- It guarantees 125 days of wage employment per financial year to rural households.
- Wage payments are mandated within 15 days of work completion.
- The funding structure follows a 60:40 Centre-State ratio, 90:10 for Northeastern and Himalayan states, and 100% central funding for Union Territories without legislatures.
- A 60-day agricultural pause is allowed during peak sowing and harvesting seasons.
- Mandates decentralized planning using spatial technologies like the Yuktdhara portal.
- Aims to ensure rural employment security, livelihood support, and asset creation.
India's Rural Employment Transition
The introduction of VB-GRAM G marks a significant shift in India's rural employment strategy, aligning with national goals of economic inclusivity and poverty alleviation. This transition supports India's commitment to sustainable development and rural empowerment, potentially improving global rankings in human development indices.
UPSC Relevance
- GS Paper 2: Governance, policies, and interventions for development in various sectors.
- GS Paper 3: Economic development, employment, and inclusive growth.
- Prelims Angle: Questions on scheme specifics, funding structures, and employment guarantees.
- Mains Angle: Analytical themes on rural employment models and their socio-economic impacts.
FAQ Section
- What is VB-GRAM G? The Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission Gramin is a rural employment and livelihood scheme replacing MGNREGS, effective from 1st July 2026.
- Why is VB-GRAM G important? It ensures rural employment security and livelihood support, addressing the socio-economic needs of rural India.
- What are the key features of VB-GRAM G? Key features include 125 days of guaranteed employment, a 60-day agricultural pause, decentralized planning, and a structured funding model.
Detailed Coverage
- VB-GRAM G: New rural employment scheme replacing MGNREGS.
- Interim funding of ₹95,692 crore announced.
- Commencement date: 1st July 2026.
- Guarantees 125 days of wage employment per financial year.
- Timely wage payments within 15 days of work completion.
- Funding structure: 60:40 Centre-State ratio.
- Northeastern and Himalayan states: 90:10 funding ratio.
- Union Territories without legislatures: 100% central funding.
- Final distribution formula to be notified on 1st July 2026.
- 60-day no-work period during peak sowing and harvesting.
- Prevents agricultural labor shortages.
- Preparation of Viksit Gram Panchayat Plans mandated.
- Utilizes spatial technologies like the Yuktdhara portal.
- Integration with national planning platforms like PM Gati Shakti.
- Aims for rural employment security and livelihood support.
- Focus on asset creation and continuity of work.
- Significant shift from MGNREGS to a new rural employment model.
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