Sharmila's Crusade: Saving MNREGA from Central Schemes

APCC President YS Sharmila criticizes the Central Government for allegedly diluting MNREGA through the VB G-RAM-G scheme. She emphasizes the scheme's importance for the poor in Andhra Pradesh and demands the continuation of 100% funding. Sharmila urges a statewide agitation to protect MNREGA.

Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee President YS Sharmila took a firm stand on Tuesday, asserting the significance of the UPA-era MNREGA scheme as a lifeline for the impoverished in rural Andhra Pradesh. The Congress leader's statements come amid claims that the Central Government is attempting to undermine MNREGA through the introduction of the VB G-RAM-G scheme.

Sharmila embarked on a yatra from Anantapur to defend MNREGA, expressing concern over efforts to shift decision-making away from local villages to the central authority in Delhi. Addressing locals, she highlighted the program's past success, citing the southern state's status as a national model for efficient implementation.

Censuring the NDA government, Sharmila accused it of sidelining essential worksite facilities and criticized the state's complicity in the matter. She called for a resolute statewide protest to ensure the protection and continuation of MNREGA in its original form, advocating for unwavering support until the controversial VB G-RAM-G law is reversed.

(With inputs from agencies.)