Bhubaneswar/ Malkangiri, July 3 (UDN): The Odisha Government on Thursday rolled out the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Grameen) (VB-G RAM-G) across all districts, marking the launch of the state’s revamped rural employment programme aimed at strengthening livelihoods and accelerating inclusive rural development.
The scheme, which replaces the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) framework in Odisha, was formally launched at district headquarters in the presence of Members of Parliament, MLAs, District Collectors, Panchayati Raj representatives, Gram Panchayat functionaries and members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
Announcing the statewide rollout, the Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Department said the initiative seeks to enhance last-mile governance by ensuring effective delivery of welfare programmes, greater community participation and improved outreach to eligible rural households.
In Malkangiri, the programme was inaugurated under the chairmanship of District Collector Prathames Arvind Rajashirke, with Zilla Parishad Chairperson Samari Tangulu and other public representatives in attendance. Addressing the gathering, the Collector described the scheme as a key initiative for strengthening the social and economic well-being of rural families.
As part of the launch, exhibitions showcasing proposed works under the scheme and the Viksit Gram Panchayat Plan (VGPP) were organised across districts. Information kiosks, posters and awareness materials were displayed to familiarise villagers with the objectives, benefits and implementation process of the programme.
Under the scheme, workers in Odisha will receive a daily wage of ₹352, which is higher than the revised national average wage of ₹327.40. The State Government has earmarked ₹5,575 crore for implementation of the programme.
The scheme also provides flexibility to notify a combined 60-day “no-work” period during peak agricultural seasons, such as sowing and harvesting, to address labour shortages in farming activities. Beneficiaries will continue to be guaranteed 125 days of wage employment during the remaining part of the year.
Officials said the statewide rollout of VB-G RAM-G is expected to strengthen rural infrastructure, generate sustainable livelihood opportunities and improve the socio-economic conditions of rural households through enhanced community participation and effective implementation of development programmes.