Union Minister for Rural Development, and Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, chaired a significant national-level interaction today through video conferencing during which he engaged directly with representatives of MGNREGA functionaries serving across various States and Union Territories. The key focus of this extensive dialogue centered on the newly introduced Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in rural employment policy evolution.

This landmark interaction saw robust participation from more than 2 lakh MGNREGA functionaries, connecting from approximately 45,000 diverse locations spread throughout the country. The core purpose was to provide firm reassurance to all those who are at present engaged under the MGNREGA framework. It emphasised that the transition to the new Act would introduce no disruptions to their ongoing services. Instead, they would seamlessly continue in their vital roles, with State Governments taking proactive steps to guarantee this continuity and stability.

Complementing the main proceedings, a dedicated interactive session unfolded with the representatives of these MGNREGA functionaries. Participants expressed widespread enthusiasm and extended their sincere gratitude to the Union Rural Development Minister for this platform. They warmly welcomed the VB - G Ram G Act, 2025, and committed to dedicating themselves fully toward its effective and successful rollout across the nation. During this open exchange, several practical queries surfaced, particularly concerning the seamless continuation of their existing services and the mechanisms for timely honorarium payments under the provisions of the new legislation.

In his comprehensive address, the Union Rural Development Minister offered clear and unequivocal assurances to the assembled representatives. He highlighted Section 37(3) of the Act, which explicitly safeguards the employment status of all functionaries currently involved in MGNREGA operations. The same dedicated personnel who have been diligently implementing MGNREGA initiatives will take charge of executing the VB - G Ram G Act, 2025, ensuring a smooth handover without any interruptions. Furthermore, he reaffirmed that compliance with provisions for the ongoing tenure of their services would be rigorously enforced through coordination with State Governments, underscoring a commitment to workforce stability.

Addressing specific concerns raised about wages and honorarium disbursements, the Minister elaborated on key enhancements within the new framework. Notably, the ceiling for expenditure under the administrative head has been thoughtfully raised from the previous 6 percent to 9 percent. This strategic increase holds immense promise for the future, enabling State Governments to facilitate prompt and reliable payments to functionaries. Beyond that, it opens up substantial opportunities for meaningful improvements in their overall service conditions, fostering a more supportive environment for those on the frontlines of rural development.

To provide deeper insights, a detailed presentation was delivered on the VB - G Ram G Act, 2025. It meticulously outlined the Act’s standout features, ambitious objectives, and robust implementation architecture designed for nationwide scalability. Particular attention was drawn to the transformative provision guaranteeing 125 days of employment per year, alongside inclusive clauses that broaden access and equity for rural households, aligning with broader goals of sustainable livelihoods.

Wrapping up the session, Union Rural Development Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan reiterated his strong assurances once more. He pledged that the services of all functionaries would remain uninterrupted even post the enforcement of the new Act. This continuity would be meticulously ensured through close collaboration and coordination with State administrations, reinforcing trust and operational harmony in India’s rural employment ecosystem.

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