Mamata Banerjee Stands Firm on Mahatma Gandhi's Legacy Amidst Central Overhaul

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee criticizes the central government's move to replace MNREGA with the VB-G RAM G scheme. She announced renaming the state's Karmashree scheme after Mahatma Gandhi, vowing to increase workdays, despite alleged funding blocks from the Centre.

In a bold declaration, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced her intention to uphold Mahatma Gandhi's legacy by renaming the state's rural job scheme after him. This move comes as a response to the recent central government's decision to replace the well-established MNREGA with the VB-G RAM G scheme.

Addressing a packed house at a business and industry conclave, Banerjee emphasized the importance of respecting national icons, indirectly criticizing parties that she believes are neglecting this legacy. Her statements gain significance following the Lok Sabha's passage of the new employment guarantee bill, which seeks to overhaul the existing framework established in 2005.

Further bolstering her stance, Banerjee revealed plans to increase the number of workdays provided under the state-run Karmashree scheme to 100. She vowed to sustain this initiative despite perceived central efforts to cut funding, asserting the state's determination to ensure employment for its people without reliance on central funds.

(With inputs from agencies.)