Strengthening Rural Employment: Chouhan Counters Congress Criticism

Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan refutes Congress claims about the VB-G RAM G scheme, emphasizing the scheme’s aim to enhance rural employment beyond MGNREGA. Chouhan asserts the misinformation by Congress weakens their stance, promoting increased workdays and clarifying the nationwide scheme coverage without additional state burden.

Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has accused Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi of disseminating false information regarding the VB-G RAM G scheme. He insists that this new Act will fortify the Right to Work for rural populations.

In a press meeting, Chouhan addressed the Congress' nationwide opposition to the Act which aims to replace the MGNREGA. He countered their 'MGNREGA Bachao Sangram' campaign, launched to protect the previous employment guarantee, clarifying the inclusive nature of VB-G RAM G across all panchayats, not just selective ones.

Chouhan highlighted that instead of reducing work opportunities, the government extended workdays to 125 days and introduced unemployment allowances to be disbursed within 15 days. He assured that ongoing MGNREGA provisions will remain until VB-G RAM G is active in six months, relieving states from additional financial burdens as infrastructural advancements are supported centrally.

(With inputs from agencies.)