Critique of VB-G RAM G: Myths vs. Reality
Launch of the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission Gramin (VB-G RAM G) has been critiqued for not delivering on its promises compared to the now-repealed Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).
Discrepancy in Employment Statistics
- The government claimed improvements in terms of guaranteed workdays, financial allocations, and universality across rural India.
- An Indian Express report revealed a near 50% drop in rural jobs during the first month of VB-G RAM G compared to the previous year.
- Departmental statistics highlighted a 35.8% decline in total person days from January to June 2026 compared to the same period in 2025.
Implementation Issues and Political Backlash
- The law was enacted without consulting key stakeholders such as workers and state governments.
- Despite opposition and objections, the central government proceeded with the law's enactment using its parliamentary majority.
Critical Analysis
- 125-Day Myth: The claim of providing 125 days of guaranteed work is mostly unfulfilled, as many are being turned away from job sites.
- Adequate Allocation Myth: Announced allocations of Rs 95,000 crore by the Centre, along with a 40% state contribution, are largely ineffective if work provision is not operationalized.
- Higher Wages Myth: The set floor wage of Rs 300 per day is below the minimum wage in most states and significantly less than the recommended Rs 375 per day by the Satpathy Committee.
- Digital Efficiency Myth: The tech-driven system has caused worker exclusions due to e-KYC and flawed attendance systems like NMMS.
- New Viksit Bharat Myth: The claim of fostering cooperative federalism by requiring state contributions contradicts Article 258 of the Indian Constitution.
Consequences and Wider Implications
- There is a significant human cost as the rural workforce, especially women, faces deprivation.
- Both the political opposition and states have not effectively mobilized resources or challenged the law.
- The ruling party is urged to address the underlying employment needs rather than focus solely on narratives.
