In Rajasthan rural polls, could G RAM G upset BJP math amid MGNREGA shadow

The introduction of the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (VB-G RAM G) in Rajasthan may influence the ruling BJP's performance in upcoming panchayat elections next month. This new program proposes 125 days of work, prioritizes rural infrastructure, and grants gram panchayats greater authority. However, the scheme's political implications rely on its successful implementation. The Opposition is set to make VB-G RAM G a central election topic.

Rajasthan's panchayat elections, delayed by over a year, may also be affected by the transition from the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) to VB-G RAM G. The BJP encourages party members to highlight the scheme as a superior option compared to MGNREGA. Rajasthan currently has 1.03 crore active workers under the scheme, which is crucial for the state's rural voters.

The Congress party is already criticizing the BJP over the new scheme, asserting that the conditions might hinder employment prospects for rural workers and timely wage payments. Certain tribal regions might find the scheme less advantageous due to high migration rates.

The Opposition claims that the liability of 40% on the state government and delayed payments could negatively impact employment and wages. In southern Rajasthan, the scheme may prove detrimental to the party's agenda in panchayat elections. Tribal MP Rajkumar Roat expressed disappointment that no employment had been provided under the new scheme, contrasting it with the MGNREGA's employment stoppage.

Meanwhile, sarpanches worry about pending MGNREGA payments, as material costs for development works remain unreimbursed. They argue that the transition will diminish gram panchayats' autonomy and increase bureaucracy.

Despite these concerns, the BJP maintains that the new scheme will benefit rural populations by facilitating permanent works and granting gram panchayats a more significant role in local planning. The party encourages workers to explain the scheme's benefits to villagers and has held various workshops to promote understanding. The BJP remains confident that the issue will not impact their prospects in the panchayat polls.