Lok Sabha Passes VB-G RAM G Bill: 125 Days Job Guarantee Replaces MGNREGA

In this debate, India Today discusses the passing of the 'Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajivika Mission (Gramin)' bill, which replaces MGNREGA. Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan introduced the legislation, promising a statutory guarantee of 125 days of employment, an increase from the previous 100 days. Congress Spokesperson Dr. Shama Mohamed criticises the move, questioning the new funding mechanism where the Centre bears 60% of the cost and states 40%, arguing it burdens state finances. She also highlights the removal of Mahatma Gandhi's name. Senior Journalist Neerja Chowdhury observes the political marketing behind the acronym 'Jee Ram Jee' and the shift from a rights-based approach. Business Today's Siddharth Zarabi analyses the economic implications, noting the potential for increased rural earnings despite the opposition's concerns about federalism and funding allocation.