CM Mamata slams Centre over G RAM G bill, says Bengal’s job scheme will be renamed after Gandhi

As debates intensify over rural employment schemes in India, many are searching for clarity on the recent changes proposed by the central goverment. The transition from the long-standing MGNREGA to the newly introduced VB-G RAM G Bill has sparked widespread discussion about the future of rural job guarantees. Stakeholders and citizens alike want to understand the implications of this shift, especially in states like West Bengal, where local leadership has voiced strong opinions. This article explores the latest developments, the political responses, and what these changes mean for rural workers across the country.

West Bengal’s Response to the Replacement of MGNREGA

on december 18, 2025, west Bengal Chief Minister mamata Banerjee publicly criticized the central government’s decision to replace the two-decade-old Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) with the Viksit Bharat - guarantee For Rozgar And Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Bill. Speaking at a prominent business and industry conclave in Kolkata, she expressed deep disappointment over the removal of Mahatma Gandhi’s name from the rural employment scheme. Banerjee emphasized that if the central government fails to honor national icons,her state would take the initiative to preserve their legacy.

Introducing the ‘Karmashree’ Scheme: A State-Level Choice

In response to the central government’s move, the west Bengal government announced plans to rename its rural employment initiative, the Karmashree scheme, after Mahatma Gandhi. This program currently offers up to 75 days of guaranteed work to beneficiaries,a figure the state aims to increase to 100 days in the near future. Despite challenges such as alleged fund blockages from the Center, the state government has committed to sustaining and expanding this scheme using its own resources, underscoring its determination to provide employment without relying solely on central assistance.

Political and Public Reactions to the VB-G RAM G bill

The passage of the VB-G RAM G Bill in the Lok sabha was met with significant opposition uproar, reflecting the contentious nature of the legislation. Critics, including prominent leaders like Shashi Tharoor and priyanka Gandhi, have argued that the new bill undermines the foundational principles of MGNREGA. They contend that the bill dilutes the guaranteed employment rights and weakens the social safety net for rural workers.The opposition has also framed the removal of Mahatma Gandhi’s name as a symbolic insult, intensifying the political debate surrounding the bill.

Understanding the Implications for Rural Employment

The shift from MGNREGA to VB-G RAM G represents a significant policy change in India’s approach to rural job guarantees. While the new bill aims to modernize and possibly expand employment opportunities, concerns remain about its implementation and funding. States like West Bengal are taking proactive steps to ensure that rural workers continue to receive adequate support, even if central funding becomes uncertain. This evolving landscape highlights the ongoing tension between central policy directives and state-level initiatives in addressing rural livelihoods.

Significant Facts: Key Points to Remember

• Mamata Banerjee announced on December 18, 2025, that West Bengal will rename its rural job scheme after Mahatma Gandhi.
• The VB-G RAM G Bill passed in the Lok Sabha aims to replace the MGNREGA, which was enacted in 2005.
• MGNREGA guaranteed 100 days of wage employment to rural households,a benchmark many states strive to maintain.
• The Karmashree scheme in West Bengal currently provides up to 75 days of work, with plans to increase to 100 days.
• Opposition leaders like Shashi Tharoor and Priyanka Gandhi have criticized the VB-G RAM G Bill for weakening rural employment guarantees.
• The central government’s decision to remove Mahatma Gandhi’s name from the rural employment scheme has been a major point of contention.
• West Bengal claims to fund its Karmashree scheme independently, even if central funds are withheld.
• The VB-G RAM G Bill was passed amid significant opposition protests in the Parliament.
• Rural employment schemes like MGNREGA have been crucial in reducing poverty and providing livelihood security in India.
• The debate reflects broader political and ideological differences regarding welfare policies and rural advancement strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the main difference between MGNREGA and VB-G RAM G? The VB-G RAM G bill is designed to replace MGNREGA, aiming to introduce new frameworks for rural employment, but critics argue it reduces guaranteed workdays and weakens worker protections.

Q: Why is West Bengal renaming its rural job scheme after Mahatma Gandhi? West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced the renaming to honor Mahatma Gandhi and protest the central government’s removal of his name from the national rural employment scheme.

Q: How many days of work does the Karmashree scheme currently guarantee? The Karmashree scheme currently offers up to 75 days of employment, with plans to increase this to 100 days in the future.

Q: what has been the opposition’s stance on the VB-G RAM G Bill? Opposition leaders have strongly criticized the bill,claiming it undermines the spirit of MGNREGA and weakens rural workers’ rights and job security.

Q: Will states be able to sustain rural employment schemes without central funding? Some states like West Bengal have committed to funding their schemes independently,but the overall sustainability depends on state resources and political will.