The Viksit Bharat – G Ram G Act marks a major policy shift towards building self-reliant and empowered villages, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan said during his visit to Erode, Tamil Nadu, on Monday. Addressing farmers, labourers, and workers, the Minister highlighted that the new law strengthens employment guarantees, decentralises decision-making, and plugs leakages to ensure benefits reach the intended beneficiaries.
From Welfare to Self-Reliance: The Vision of G Ram G
Explaining the philosophy behind the Act, Shri Chouhan said the initiative is a concrete step towards Atmanirbhar (self-reliant) villages. The law focuses on:
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Enhanced employment generation
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Expansion of basic rural infrastructure
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Greater self-sufficiency through community participation
He emphasised that truly developed villages can only be achieved through public participation, with villagers actively shaping their own development priorities.
Stronger Employment Guarantees and Anti-Corruption Measures
Drawing comparisons with the earlier MGNREGA framework, the Union Minister pointed out persistent challenges such as delayed work allocation and wage payments. To address these issues, the G Ram G Act introduces key reforms:
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Employment guarantee increased from 100 to 125 days
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Unemployment allowance if work is not provided within the stipulated time
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Interest on delayed wages if payments are delayed beyond 15 days
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Administrative expenditure raised from 6% to 9% to ensure timely salaries for field staff and smoother implementation
He asserted that these provisions eliminate systemic bottlenecks and reduce scope for corruption.
Gram Sabhas Empowered: Decisions Now at the Village Level
One of the most significant changes under the Act is the empowerment of Gram Sabhas. Shri Chouhan clarified that decisions on village development projects will now be taken locally, rather than at state or central capitals.
“Development decisions will no longer be made in Chennai or Delhi, but within the village itself,” he said, underscoring the government’s commitment to grassroots democracy.
Direct Benefit Transfers and Transparency
Addressing misinformation around the scheme, Shri Chouhan stated that reforms introduced under the leadership of Narendra Modi ensure that funds meant for labourers and workers are transferred directly into their bank accounts, leaving no room for intermediaries or siphoning of money.
“No one will be allowed to siphon off the money meant for labourers and workers,” the Minister asserted.
Boost for Turmeric Farmers: ICAR Lab and Board Office in Erode
During his visit to Erode’s renowned turmeric market, Shri Chouhan announced the establishment of a turmeric testing laboratory in the city and issued directions to Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to set it up.
The proposed lab will support farmers through:
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Quality testing and certification
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Improved market credibility
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Better price realisation and export potential
He also assured efforts to establish a regional office of the Turmeric Board in Erode, promising policy support and enhanced market access for turmeric growers.
Cold Storage, Seed Development and Market Reforms
Highlighting infrastructural gaps, the Union Minister stressed the urgent need for cold storage facilities in the Erode region. He said such facilities can be developed under central schemes and urged the Tamil Nadu government to utilise RKVY (Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana) funds.
He also assured action against turmeric smuggling and announced that a meeting would be held in Delhi to address farmers’ concerns. Emphasising that quality seeds form the backbone of agriculture, he called for strengthened seed development initiatives through ICAR.
Engagement with Women Farmers and Agri-Innovators
As part of his visit, Shri Chouhan reviewed agricultural innovations by inspecting over 100 stalls showcasing farm products and technologies. He interacted with entrepreneurs on product quality and future potential, held discussions with over 1,000 women farmers, met representatives of farmer organisations, and engaged with progressive farmers. The visit also featured cultural programmes, reflecting strong community participation.
Conclusion: Viksit Bharat – G Ram G Act
The Viksit Bharat – G Ram G Act represents a decisive move towards decentralised governance, stronger rural employment, and transparent delivery of welfare. With empowered Gram Sabhas, enhanced guarantees for workers, and targeted support for farmers—particularly turmeric growers in Erode—the initiative lays a strong foundation for self-reliant and prosperous villages across India.
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Source: PIB
