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VB‑G RAM G Replaces MGNREGA as States Begin Rollout and Political Fight Escalates

State co‑funding with mandated digital oversight has become the flashpoint.

Overview

  • Following December’s passage, BJP leaders held briefings and launched preparations on January 6–7, with Madhya Pradesh announcing implementation and affirming it can meet the 40% state share.
  • The law expands the guarantee to 125 days, provides weekly wage payments with compensation or interest for delays, makes unemployment allowance a legal right, and permits up to a 60‑day pause during peak farm seasons.
  • Funding shifts to a shared model reported as 60:40 for most states, 90:10 for northeastern states, and full central funding for Union Territories, with states given six months to craft implementing schemes.
  • The framework embeds biometric attendance, geo‑tagging, satellite imagery, AI‑based checks, direct benefit transfer, social audits, an ombudsman, and time‑bound grievance redressal.
  • Opposition parties and activists challenge the overhaul, citing an alleged ‘switch‑off’ provision, digital exclusion and heavier state burdens, even as some workers in Chhattisgarh welcome more workdays and faster pay.