Shivraj Chouhan Slams Congress Over 'Misguided' Criticism of New Rural Employment Scheme

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Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has hit out at the Congress party, accusing them of politicizing the new rural employment scheme, the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act. Chouhan claimed that the Congress has a history of underfunding and freezing wages under the previous Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), which they are now using as a 'tool for electoral gain.' The Congress has been critical of the new scheme, with Rahul Gandhi accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of 'destroying' MGNREGA. However, Chouhan defended the VB-G RAM G Act, stating that it focuses on technology, transparency, and timely wage payments, giving more power to Gram Panchayats to prepare their own plans. Under the new scheme, employment days have been increased from 100 to 125, and a provision has been made for unemployment allowance and additional compensation for delayed wage payments. Chouhan emphasized that the focus is on 'transparent, time-bound payments' and sustainable livelihoods, ensuring rights are delivered with 'guarantees and dignity.' The new Act, which replaced MGNREGA, was passed in Parliament in December and has been met with resistance from the Congress party. The party has announced plans to launch a nationwide 'MGNREGA Bachao Andolan' from January 5, 2026, in protest against the new scheme.