Thu Mar 12 16:54:03 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Opposition Condemns Replacement of MGNREGA with New Rural Employment Scheme
The Story:
Members of the opposition in the Rajya Sabha have strongly criticized the central government’s decision to replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) with the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act – VB-G RAM G. During a discussion on the Ministry of Rural Development, opposition MPs, particularly from the Congress party, voiced concerns that the new scheme shifts the financial burden onto the states, potentially undermining the program’s effectiveness in providing employment to rural populations. The opposition also accused the government of attempting to dismantle MGNREGA.
Meanwhile, BJP members defended the government’s actions, highlighting achievements in rural development such as housing construction, sanitation improvements, and the provision of clean water through initiatives like the Nal Se Jal Yojana and road construction under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana.
Key Points:
- The central government has replaced MGNREGA with the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act – VB-G RAM G.
- Opposition MPs, led by Congress members, allege the new scheme places a financial burden on states, potentially weakening rural employment programs.
- Opposition accuses the government of trying to end MGNREGA.
- BJP MPs defended the government, citing progress in rural housing, sanitation, water access, and road construction.
- The discussion took place in the Rajya Sabha during a session on the working of the Ministry of Rural Development.
Key Takeaways:
- The replacement of MGNREGA with VB-G RAM G has sparked significant political controversy.
- The core disagreement centers on the funding model and its potential impact on the program’s effectiveness.
- The BJP government is emphasizing tangible rural development achievements to justify the change.
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