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Punjab Holds Special Session on New Rural Jobs Law as Panel Flags Payment Risks

The law awaits rules, triggering a six-month changeover.

Overview

  • Punjab’s Assembly convened to debate the VB-G RAM G Act, with the AAP government proposing a resolution to press the Centre to retain a demand-based, fully centrally funded framework.
  • Worker protests and constituency-wise letters to the Prime Minister highlighted worries over digital attendance, village notifications for work, and the loss of a guaranteed right to demand employment.
  • The Parliamentary Standing Committee reviewed the phase-out on December 29 and raised concerns over wage payments, budget overlaps and administrative capacity during the transition period.
  • The Rural Development Ministry told the panel it is coordinating with states to prevent “fake demand” during the interim and noted ₹3,082.52 crore in outstanding dues, including ₹1,457.22 crore in wages.
  • SBI Research assessed that most states would be net gainers—collectively around ₹17,000 crore—under the normative allocation even as the scheme shifts to a 60:40 Centre–state share with a 125-day guarantee.