Viksit Bharat–G Ram G Act lays foundation for self-reliant villages: Shivraj Singh Chouhan
Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan during a visit to the famed turmeric market in Erode on Monday.
Erode, January 6: The Viksit Bharat–G Ram G Act lays a strong foundation for building self-reliant (Atmanirbhar) villages by strengthening employment, improving basic facilities and empowering local decision-making, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan said on Monday.
Addressing workers and labourers during an interaction in Erode, Chouhan said the success of developed and prosperous villages depends on public participation, with gram sabhas playing a central role under the new law.
Employment guarantee raised to 125 days
Chouhan said that under the earlier MGNREGA framework, while 100 days of employment was guaranteed, work availability and timely wage payments were inconsistent in several regions. To address these gaps and curb corruption, the Viksit Bharat–G Ram G Act introduces structural reforms.
The employment guarantee has been increased from 100 days to 125 days. If work is not provided within the stipulated time, workers will be eligible for unemployment allowance. Delays of more than 15 days in wage payments will attract interest. Administrative expenditure has also been raised from 6 percent to 9 percent to ensure timely payment of field-level staff salaries and improve operational efficiency.
“No one will be allowed to siphon off money meant for labourers and workers,” the minister said, adding that direct bank transfers ensure funds reach beneficiaries without leakages.
Village-level decision-making
Chouhan said gram sabhas have been empowered to decide development works locally, marking a shift from decisions being taken at state or central levels. He dismissed what he termed as misinformation being spread about the scheme, stating that reforms introduced under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi are aimed solely at transparency and accountability.
Turmeric testing lab announced for Erode
During a visit to the famed turmeric market in Erode, Chouhan announced the establishment of a turmeric testing laboratory and directed the Indian Council of Agricultural Research to take necessary steps. The facility will support farmers through quality testing, certification and improved market access.
He also assured the setting up of a regional office of the Turmeric Board in Erode, saying he would personally pursue the matter with the commerce ministry. The move is expected to provide policy support, boost exports and improve market linkages for turmeric farmers.
Cold storage, seed development in focus
Highlighting the urgent need for cold storage infrastructure in the region, Chouhan said such facilities can be created under various central schemes. He added that the Tamil Nadu government would be requested to utilise Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana funds for this purpose.
The minister also assured action against smuggled turmeric entering markets and said a meeting would be convened in Delhi to address related challenges. Stressing that quality seed is the foundation of agriculture, he underlined the role of ICAR in seed development.
Interaction with women farmers
As part of the visit, Chouhan reviewed agricultural innovations showcased across more than 100 stalls and interacted with farmers and agri-entrepreneurs on product quality and market potential. He held discussions with over 1,000 women farmers, met representatives of farmer organisations and progressive farmers, and participated in cultural programmes organised on the occasion.
