Employment Guarantee Expanded, Accountability Strengthened
Explaining the key reforms, Shri Chouhan said the earlier MGNREGA framework often failed to deliver timely work and wage payments. To address these shortcomings, the Viksit Bharat–G Ram G Act increases the employment guarantee from 100 days to 125 days.
Under the new provisions, workers will receive an unemployment allowance if work is not provided within the stipulated period. Additionally, delays beyond 15 days in wage payments will attract interest, ensuring accountability at every level of implementation.
Administrative expenditure has also been raised from 6 per cent to 9 per cent, enabling timely salaries for field staff and smoother execution of schemes on the ground.
Gram Sabhas at the Centre of Decision-Making
A major highlight of the new law is the enhanced role of Gram Sabhas. Shri Chouhan said village assemblies will now decide which development works are needed locally, shifting power away from distant administrative centres.
“Decisions about village development will no longer be taken in Delhi or Chennai. They will be taken by the villagers themselves,” the minister said, emphasising grassroots democracy.
He also cautioned against misinformation being spread about the scheme and reaffirmed that funds meant for labourers will be transferred directly to their bank accounts, eliminating middlemen and corruption.
Boost for Turmeric Farmers in Erode
During his visit to Erode’s renowned turmeric market, Shri Chouhan announced the establishment of a turmeric testing laboratory in the region. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has been directed to set up the facility, which will support quality testing, certification, and better market access.
He also assured farmers that efforts would be made to establish a regional office of the Turmeric Board in Erode, providing policy support and opening new export opportunities for growers.
Cold Storage, Seed Quality, and Women Farmers
Highlighting infrastructure needs, Shri Chouhan said cold storage facilities are crucial for the Erode region. He noted that such projects can be supported under central schemes, with the Tamil Nadu government encouraged to use RKVY funds.
The minister also stressed the importance of quality seeds as the foundation of agriculture and called for enhanced seed development initiatives through ICAR.
During the visit, Shri Chouhan interacted with more than 1,000 women farmers, reviewed over 100 innovation stalls, and engaged with farmer organisations and entrepreneurs, appreciating their role in strengthening India’s agricultural economy.
