Itanagar, Jan 7: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Tuesday welcomed the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Grameen) Act, or VB-G RAM G, describing it as a significant reform to strengthen rural livelihoods, improve accountability, and promote grassroots development.

The Act replaces the 2005 UPA-era MGNREGA, introducing key changes such as guaranteed employment for 125 days per year, up from 100 days, and prioritizing durable rural infrastructure. It also emphasizes gram panchayat-led planning with stricter oversight.

Speaking to reporters, Khandu highlighted that the scheme aims to empower farmers, secure livelihoods, and strengthen villages while aligning with the “Viksit Bharat” vision. He added that the new framework addresses shortcomings of MGNREGA, including poor monitoring, fake job cards, ghost beneficiaries, and inflated muster rolls.

The initiative focuses on four main areas: water security, rural infrastructure, livelihood support, and climate resilience. For farmers, the program allows a flexible 60-day break during the harvest season to ensure agricultural work can continue without affecting employment benefits.

Khandu also noted a favorable 90:10 funding ratio for northeastern states, compared to 60:40 for other states. He criticized opposition claims, stating that earlier programs under Congress saw widespread fund misuse due to weak verification.