VBG Ramji Bill: Political Storm Over Proposed VBG Ramji Bill to Replace MGNREGA in Parliament

A major political controversy has erupted ahead of the presentation of the proposed VBG Ramji Bill in Parliament. The bill, formally named Viksit Bharat Gram Rozgar and Aajeevika Mission (Grameen), is set to replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). To be introduced in the Lok Sabha by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan, the bill proposes increasing guaranteed workdays from 100 to 125 but also changes the funding structure, reducing the Centre’s share to 60 percent and increasing states’ contribution to 40 percent. The opposition has strongly objected to the removal of Mahatma Gandhi’s name, calling it an attack on national legacy, while the government argues the changes aim to improve efficiency and curb corruption. The issue is expected to trigger intense debate inside and outside Parliament.