The Central Government has sanctioned ₹1,100 crore to Meghalaya for implementing the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) until March 31, 2027. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma announced the approval on June 30 after the state cabinet adopted the new rural employment law, replacing MGNREGA.
The new legislation increases guaranteed employment from 100 to 125 days annually and expands the number of permissible development works. The scheme aims to strengthen rural infrastructure, generate livelihoods, and promote sustainable development across Meghalaya.
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Key Facts
- State: Meghalaya
- Announcement Date: June 30
- Scheme: Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G)
- Central Allocation: ₹1,100 crore
- Implementation Period: Till March 31, 2027
- Funding Pattern: Centre 90%, State 10%
- Employment Guarantee: Increased from 100 to 125 days
- Replaces: Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)
Meghalaya Adopts New Rural Employment Law
The Meghalaya government has adopted the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Act, 2025, replacing the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).
Following the cabinet’s decision, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma announced that the Centre has approved ₹1,100 crore for implementing the new rural employment programme until March 31, 2027.
Centre to Bear 90% of the Cost
According to the Chief Minister, the approved allocation for the nine-month period from July to March will follow a 90:10 funding pattern, with the Central Government contributing 90% of the project cost and the Meghalaya government providing the remaining 10%.
However, Sangma clarified that if expenditure exceeds the sanctioned ₹1,100 crore, the state government will bear the additional cost.
Employment Guarantee Increased to 125 Days
One of the key features of the new law is the increase in guaranteed rural employment from 100 days to 125 days per financial year.
Additionally, the Act expands the list of permissible development works from around 250 projects under MGNREGA to more than 320 activities, giving local authorities greater flexibility to address community needs.
More Development Projects Included
The new framework allows several infrastructure projects that were previously not permitted under MGNREGA.
For instance, the scheme now supports the construction of anganwadi centres and school buildings. Furthermore, it places greater emphasis on rural roads, village connectivity, livelihood generation, water conservation, environmental protection, and forest management.
The government expects these changes to improve rural infrastructure while creating additional employment opportunities.
Transition from MGNREGA Completed
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said Meghalaya implemented the rural employment programme under the existing MGNREGA guidelines during the first quarter of the current financial year.
Following the cabinet’s approval, the state will now implement development projects under the new VB-G RAM G framework.
Questions and Answers
What has the Centre approved for Meghalaya?
The Centre has sanctioned ₹1,100 crore for implementing the VB-G RAM G rural employment scheme until March 31, 2027.
What replaces MGNREGA in Meghalaya?
The state has adopted the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025, replacing MGNREGA.
How many employment days does the new scheme guarantee?
The new law increases guaranteed employment from 100 days to 125 days annually.
What new projects are allowed?
The scheme now permits the construction of anganwadi centres, school buildings, rural roads, water conservation projects, forest management works, and other community infrastructure.
Who will fund the scheme?
The Centre will contribute 90% of the approved cost, while the Meghalaya government will provide the remaining 10%.
Location Context
Meghalaya is a predominantly rural state in Northeast India, where employment guarantee schemes play a vital role in supporting livelihoods and infrastructure development. The new VB-G RAM G programme is expected to strengthen rural connectivity, improve public infrastructure, and create additional employment opportunities across the state.
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