Rural Development Secretary Reviews States’ Readiness for VB–G RAM G Act Rollout from July 1

New Delhi, May 23, 2026: Secretary, Department of Rural Development, Ministry of Rural Development, Rohit Kansal on Saturday reviewed the preparedness of States and Union Territories for the rollout and operationalisation of the VB–G RAM G Act, 2025, which is scheduled to come into force on July 1, 2026.

The review meeting, attended by senior ministry officials and representatives from States and UTs, focused on ensuring a seamless transition from the existing Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) to the revised rural employment and livelihood framework under the new legislation.

During the meeting, the Rural Development Secretary assessed the progress of key preparatory activities being undertaken by States and UTs. These include notification of State-level VB–G RAM G schemes, formulation of state-specific rules, integration of digital payment systems such as DBT-SPARSH and SNA-SPARSH, and preparation of approved work plans through the Yuktdhara portal.

States were also advised to make adequate budgetary provisions, ensure sufficient financial allocations, and settle pending liabilities under MGNREGS to facilitate a smooth transition to the new framework.

The Ministry informed participants that draft rules under the VB–G RAM G Act, 2025 were issued on May 22 and published in the e-Gazette for a 30-day public consultation period.

The draft regulations cover areas including wage payments, unemployment allowances, grievance redressal mechanisms, administrative expenses, normative fund allocation, transitional provisions, and the functioning of national and central employment councils under the Act.

An indicative framework for categorising Gram Panchayats into A, B, and C categories has also been shared with States and UTs to support planning and implementation under the revised programme.

Emphasising that employment generation must continue without disruption, Rohit Kansal stated that all works under MGNREGS would continue until the new law takes effect on July 1, 2026.

To ensure uninterrupted employment opportunities for rural households, the Centre has approved a labour budget exceeding 45 crore persondays for June 2026 based on projected demand from States and UTs.

The Secretary stressed that adequate work availability should be maintained at the grassroots level, particularly during the agricultural lean season, and that all genuine employment demands must be met promptly.

To support ongoing employment generation and project execution, the Ministry has issued mother sanctions worth ₹26,971 crore under MGNREGS. The funds cover wage payments, material costs, administrative expenses, and Social Audit Unit components.

States and UTs have been directed to utilise the funds efficiently, ensure timely execution of ongoing projects, and complete pending works wherever possible before the new framework becomes operational.

The Ministry also clarified that projects continuing beyond June 30, 2026, will automatically transition into the VB–G RAM G framework while remaining aligned with the provisions of the new Act.

The Department of Rural Development informed States and UTs that weekly review and consultation meetings are being conducted to monitor preparedness, provide technical support, and address implementation-related challenges.

Reiterating the Centre’s commitment to a smooth nationwide rollout, Rohit Kansal said close coordination between the Union Government, States, UTs, and technical teams would be crucial for the successful implementation of the enhanced rural employment and livelihood programme.