Union Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath announced that the central government is renaming MGNREGA as Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) – VB G RAM G, a change he asserts will significantly benefit rural workers in Tripura. The scheme’s guaranteed employment period has been increased from 100 to 125 days, directly aiding thousands of rural families. Additional financial support will be provided to states, including Tripura, to ensure effective implementation of the expanded program. Currently, Tripura has 6.56 lakh job card holders and a total of 10.20 lakh registered workers, showcasing the scheme’s extensive reach. Over the past seven years, the Centre has released Rs 7,801 crore to Tripura under this scheme, resulting in the creation of approximately 8.70 lakh assets, surpassing achievements of the previous Left Front government. Rural workers in the state have received Rs 5,332 crore in wages under MGNREGA. On a national level, the funding allocation for MGNREGA has increased from around Rs 2.63 lakh crore (2005-2014) to over Rs 7.81 lakh crore, indicating a heightened focus on rural employment.
