Raipur: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Monday held a press conference at the BJP office in Raipur to highlight the “Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Employment and Livelihood Mission (Rural) – VB-GRG Act 2025”, describing it as a law that goes beyond mere employment to guarantee sustainable livelihoods in rural Chhattisgarh.
Beyond MGNREGA: A Law for Self-Reliant Villages
Addressing journalists at the Kushabhau Thakre Bhavan, CM Sai said that unlike MGNREGA, which provides only temporary relief, the VB-GRG Act ensures long-term employment and livelihood security. He stated, “VB-GRG is not just a promise of employment; it guarantees sustainable livelihood. This law will make rural Chhattisgarh self-reliant and strengthen the foundation of a developed India.”
CM Sai highlighted that the initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for the welfare of the poor, farmers, and laborers. He recalled that since Modi’s first term as Prime Minister in 2014, the government has prioritized development programs for marginalized sections of society. Initiatives such as Jan Dhan Yojana (bank accounts for every household), housing schemes, and sanitation programs have already demonstrated this commitment.
Key Features of VB-GRG Act 2025
Under the VB-GRG Act, rural workers will be guaranteed 105 days of employment, with wages paid within seven days. If there is a delay in wage payment, interest will be paid on the delayed amount. The scheme also ensures that work halts during paddy harvesting season for up to 60 days, preventing a shortage of labor for agriculture.
The law focuses on four key areas of work:
- Water security
- Rural infrastructure development
- Climate change mitigation initiatives
- Agriculture and livestock activities
Additionally, administrative expenditure under the scheme has been increased from 6% to 9%, and special emphasis has been given to providing employment opportunities to women, ensuring inclusive rural development.
A Step Toward Empowered and Developed Villages
CM Sai emphasized that the VB-GRG Act is aimed at strengthening village economies and empowering rural communities. “This law has been introduced to make every village employment-rich and self-reliant, contributing to a stronger rural India,” he said.
By combining sustainable employment, social security, and women’s participation, the VB-GRG Act is expected to play a pivotal role in rural development and livelihood generation in Chhattisgarh, building a foundation for a more developed and self-sufficient state.
