Addressing the gathering, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that delays in payment of salaries to employment assistants, panchayat secretaries, and technical staff had been a serious concern. Increasing administrative expenditure from 6 percent to 9 percent has been done specifically to ensure timely salary payments.
He informed that out of the total proposed budget of ₹1,51,282 crore, over ₹13,000 crore will now be earmarked for salaries and essential administrative requirements. The Minister assured that salaries will be paid first, followed by other necessary expenditures, with strict monitoring to prevent wastage on non-essential items.
Legal Guarantee of 125 Days of Employment
The Union Minister highlighted that under the new framework, there is now a legal guarantee of 125 days of employment instead of the earlier 100 days. This, he said, marks a significant
strengthening of employment security for rural workers.
He added that State Governments have been empowered to allow up to 60 days of agricultural work during sowing and harvesting seasons, ensuring that farmers do not face labour shortages during peak periods.
Timely Wages and Stronger Safeguards
Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized that strict provisions have been introduced to ensure timely payment of wages. If wages are not paid within 15 days, workers will be entitled to additional compensation. He said it will no longer be acceptable for wages to remain pending for months.
He also noted that existing wage rates will continue and will see annual revisions, ensuring better income security for rural workers.
Viksit Bharat–G RAM G Scheme Explained
The Minister described the ‘Viksit Bharat–G RAM G’ scheme as historic, noting that it has now become an Act after receiving the President’s assent. He cautioned against misinformation and stressed the importance of conveying accurate details of the scheme to every village.
Under the scheme, four categories of works will be undertaken: water conservation projects, basic village infrastructure such as schools and hospitals, livelihood-based activities to expand
employment, and disaster prevention works including drainage and retaining walls.
Village-Led Development Vision
Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision that development must be visible on the ground. Under the Viksit Gram Panchayat Yojana, villages will prepare their development
plans through collective deliberation, empowering local communities to decide their own development priorities.
He assured Rozgar Sahayaks that their suggestions would be discussed with State Governments and that continuous improvements would be made to ease the challenges faced by staff working at the panchayat level.