VB-G RAM G Bill Passage and Its Implications

The recent passage of the VB-G RAM G Bill in Parliament, which repeals the MGNREGA, was marked by the absence of key figures like Prime Minister and Opposition Leader. The bill was pushed through via a voice vote without being sent to a standing committee for detailed scrutiny, unlike two other bills referred to House committees.

Concerns Over the Bill's Passage

• MGNREGA provides crucial wage employment to approximately 6 crore rural households annually.
• The government had previously improved its implementation through Aadhaar-linked bank accounts and the NREGASoft MIS platform.
• During 2020-21 and 2021-22, MGNREGA generated 389.09 crore and 363.19 crore person-days of employment, crucial during the Covid-19 pandemic.
• There was bipartisan support for MGNREGA, unlike the contentious farm laws.

Key Changes in the VB-G RAM G Bill

• The scheme shifts from being demand-driven to "normative allocation" determined by the Centre.
• The Centre will now cover only 60% of the cost, with states bearing more financial burden.
• Potential for political bias in fund allocation to states.

Implications and Concerns

• The shift may undermine the flexibility of states to meet local employment needs.
• States already face fiscal constraints, which could impact the effectiveness of the scheme.
• There is a need for more public consultation and legislative oversight, similar to the oversight initially bypassed with the farm bills.