Viksit Bharat-G Ram G law to help build self-reliant villages, says Shivraj Singh Chouhan
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Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Monday said that the “Viksit Bharat – G Ram G” law is an important step towards making villages self-reliant. He was speaking to workers and labourers in Erode, Tamil Nadu.
The minister said the new law focuses on creating more jobs, improving basic facilities, and helping villages become independent. He added that developed and prosperous villages can be achieved only when people actively take part in the process.
Chouhan said that under the earlier MGNREGA system, workers were guaranteed 100 days of work, but in many areas, jobs were not provided on time and wages were delayed. Calling this a serious problem, he said the government brought reforms through the new law to fix these issues and reduce corruption.
He said that under the “Viksit Bharat – G Ram G” law, the employment guarantee has been increased from 100 days to 125 days. If work is not given within the fixed time, workers will receive unemployment allowance. If wages are delayed beyond 15 days, interest will also be paid. The minister said administrative spending has been raised from 6% to 9% to ensure timely payment to staff and better implementation.
January 2026
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He also said Gram Sabhas have been given more power. Village assemblies will now decide which development works are needed, instead of decisions being taken in Chennai or Delhi. The minister warned that some people are spreading false information about the scheme and said the changes ensure money goes directly into workers’ bank accounts.
Testing laboratory for Turmeric City
During his visit to Erode’s turmeric market, Chouhan announced a testing laboratory for “Turmeric City” and directed ICAR to take action. He also assured that a regional office of the Turmeric Board will be set up in Erode. He stressed the need for cold storage facilities and action against turmeric smuggling.
The minister also interacted with women farmers, visited over 100 stalls showcasing farm products, and discussed agriculture innovations with farmers and entrepreneurs.
The Union Minister also reviewed new ideas and technologies being used in agriculture. He visited more than 100 stalls displaying different farm products and spoke to farmers and entrepreneurs about quality and future opportunities. Chouhan interacted with over 1,000 women farmers, met representatives of farmer organisations, and took part in cultural programmes organised during the event.