Telangana Challenges New VB G RAM G Framework, Demands MGNREGS Restoration
The Telangana government is lobbying against the Centre's proposed VB G RAM G framework, arguing it threatens rural employment rights. Minister Seethakka has requested the restoration of MGNREGS and significant amendments to the new policy to safeguard the livelihoods of marginalized communities across the state.
Highlights
- •Telangana opposes the new VB G RAM G framework, demanding the restoration of MGNREGS.
- •Minister Seethakka argues the new scheme could disadvantage Dalits, Adivasis, and landless families.
- •The state proposes a funding model based on local gram panchayat demand rather than state-wide metrics.
- •Authorities urge exemptions for the 60-day work break to support agriculture and environmental projects.
The Telangana state government has formally voiced its strong opposition to the central government's plan to roll out the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin), or VB G RAM G, framework. State authorities are calling for the immediate withdrawal of this new initiative, urging the Centre to instead ensure the continued restoration and stability of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS).
Danasari ‘Seethakka’ Anasuya, the Minister for Panchayat Raj and Rural Development, has communicated the state's concerns through three separate letters addressed to the Union Minister for Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan. The state government argues that the proposed legislation could undermine the rights of the rural poor, specifically impacting vulnerable populations including Dalits, Adivasis, landless families, and other marginalized communities. Minister Seethakka emphasized the need for amendments to protect these groups and preserve the authority of local gram panchayats.
Concerns Regarding Allocation and Implementation
A primary point of contention is the proposed funding distribution mechanism. By treating the state as a single unit, the VB G RAM G framework fails to address specific employment demands at the local level. The state government warned that districts such as Adilabad, Asifabad, Mulugu, and Nagarkurnool could face significant disadvantages if funding is allocated on a state-wide basis rather than according to actual local requirements. The state has recommended that 80 percent of fund allocation be determined by person-days generated in gram panchayats over the last five years, with only 20 percent linked to Finance Commission parameters.
Furthermore, the state is seeking the integration of local housing initiatives, such as Indiramma housing, into the new framework. The current MGNREGS setup provides beneficiaries with up to 90 days of employment support, a vital benefit that the state fears will be lost. Seethakka also advocated for the inclusion of livelihood-oriented activities, such as bamboo plantations, vegetable cultivation, and nutrition gardens, which are essential for small and marginal farmers.
Opposition to Mandatory Work Breaks
The state government has also firmly opposed the provision that mandates a 60-day employment break during the peak agricultural season. According to the state, this suspension would severely hamper rural households in tribal and drought-prone regions where wage employment remains a critical lifeline. Additionally, the mandate would interfere with essential monsoon-season projects, including plantation drives and afforestation efforts. Seethakka has requested specific exemptions for these activities, ensuring that the VB G RAM G policy does not hinder regional development and environmental conservation. The state is now awaiting a positive response from the Centre regarding these critical policy amendments before the proposed July 1 implementation date.
