Cabinet Panel raises concerns over VB-G RAM G Act

metro india news  I hyderabad

The Cabinet Sub-Committee constituted by the Telangana Government to examine the proposed Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Act, 2025, has favoured a cautious approach towards the Centre's proposed legislation, expressing concerns that it could adversely affect the State's interests and weaken protections available to vulnerable rural communities.

The committee, chaired by Irrigation and Civil Supplies Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy, held its first meeting at the State Secretariat on Sunday. Members examined provisions of the proposed law, which is intended to replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) from July 1.

During deliberations, the committee noted that certain provisions could dilute the role of State Governments in planning and implementing employment guarantee programmes while increasing their financial burden. Members expressed concern that Telangana's rural poor could face difficulties in accessing employment and livelihood support under the new framework.

The committee also reviewed objections raised by several non-BJP-ruled States and some northeastern States regarding the additional fiscal liabilities associated with the proposed legislation. It was pointed out that some States, including Himachal Pradesh, have not accepted the new framework.

The panel is expected to recommend amendments to safeguard the interests of workers, self-help groups, rural households, and small and marginal farmers. It is also likely to stress the need for States to retain flexibility in designing and implementing programmes suited to local requirements.

The Telangana Government is expected to formally communicate its concerns and recommendations to the Centre after the committee finalises its report. The State's response is likely to emphasise cooperative federalism, greater fiscal support from the Union Government and stronger safeguards for rural livelihoods.

Speaking at the meeting, Uttam Kumar Reddy described MGNREGA as one of independent India's most successful social protection programmes. He recalled that the scheme was introduced during the UPA government and credited Congress leader Sonia Gandhi for its conception.

The minister also criticised the proposed removal of Mahatma Gandhi's name from the programme, calling it unnecessary and unfortunate. He reiterated the Telangana Government's demand that the Centre withdraw the proposed VB-G RAM G Act and continue with the existing MGNREGA framework.

Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Minister Danasari Anasuya Seethakka, Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao and Labour Minister G. Vivek Venkatswamy participated virtually. Senior officials, including Special Chief Secretary M. Dana Kishore, attended the meeting.