New Delhi, July 5: Union Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday released the first instalment of Rs 25,863 crore to the states for the implementation of the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Aajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G-RAM-G) scheme.
The instalment, which forms part of the “mother sanction” of the scheme, was released at a video conference with Rural Development Ministers of all states and Union Territories held to review the VB-G-RAM-G scheme.
Addressing the meeting, Chouhan said that the first instalment was aimed at ensuring that states have adequate funds so that wages can be paid within 15 days. He urged all state governments to release their matching share on time so that there is no delay in wage payments.
The Centre has resolved to implement VB-G-RAM-G across the country without any disruption from July 1, he said, adding that he was happy to note that the scheme has been successfully rolled out across the country and that the transition from MGNREGA to VB-G-RAM-G has been smooth and seamless. (IANS)





