THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, March 18: The Jharkhand Legislative Assembly today passed a resolution calling for the continuation of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), rejecting the proposed VB-GRAM-G framework, citing concerns over employment security and rural livelihoods.
The resolution, introduced by Rural Development Minister Deepika Pandey Singh, urges the Central Government not only to retain MGNREGA but also to expand the guaranteed employment period from 100 days to 150 days.
Concerns Over Proposed VB-GRAM-G Framework
The Assembly noted that the proposed VB-GRAM-G Act, intended to replace MGNREGA, could significantly weaken the rural employment guarantee system.
Following a detailed review, the state government concluded that the new framework may adversely affect:
- Employment security for rural workers
- Generation of person-days of work
- Financial stability of the state
- Decision-making powers of Gram Sabhas
Officials and stakeholders—including Deputy Development Commissioners, Block Development Officers, and Panchayat representatives—raised these concerns during a review meeting held on January 5, 2026.
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Key Objections Raised by the State
The resolution outlines several critical issues with the proposed law:
- Loss of legal guarantee: VB-GRAM-G removes the statutory right to employment upon demand
- Reduced workdays: A “standard allocation system” could limit employment opportunities, affecting women and increasing rural migration
- Higher state burden: A 60:40 funding model would increase the financial responsibility on the state
- Weakened Gram Sabha powers: Local bodies may lose authority over development works, especially in Scheduled Areas under PESA
- Seasonal restrictions: No work provision for up to 60 days during agricultural seasons could hurt landless labourers
- Technical challenges: Mandatory biometric and geo-spatial systems may delay wage payments in remote areas
- Symbolic concerns: Dropping Mahatma Gandhi’s name is seen as undermining the scheme’s foundational philosophy
MGNREGA Seen as Crucial for Rural Stability
The Assembly emphasised that MGNREGA remains a vital safety net for rural households, supporting livelihoods, reducing distress migration, and empowering local governance institutions.
By seeking an increase to 150 days of guaranteed employment, the state aims to strengthen rural economic resilience amid ongoing socio-economic challenges.
