AGARTALA | Tripura has been allocated Rs 1,040 crore under the Centre’s newly launched Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-GRAM G) for the current financial year, Social Welfare Minister Tinku Roy announced on July 2.

Roy joined the national launch of the scheme virtually from Rabindra Bhavan in Agartala, while Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan formally inaugurated the programme from Andhra Pradesh.

Describing the initiative as a major impetus for the rural economy, Roy said the new scheme broadens the scope of rural employment by incorporating development activities that were either limited or not covered under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).

According to the minister, the programme places greater emphasis on works such as land levelling, construction of earthen drains, water conservation measures and flood protection projects, aiming to address the wider developmental requirements of rural areas.

Responding to criticism from opposition parties, Roy dismissed allegations that the BJP-led Centre intended to phase out MGNREGA. He maintained that the newly introduced scheme would provide enhanced benefits and employment opportunities for rural workers.

Roy pointed out that Tripura received approximately Rs 1,100 crore under MGNREGA during the previous financial year. In comparison, the state has been sanctioned Rs 1,040 crore under VB-GRAM G for the remaining nine months of the current fiscal year.

Terming the allocation substantial for a state of Tripura’s size, the minister also highlighted a significant increase in daily wage rates under the new programme. He said wages have been revised from Rs 240 to Rs 300 per day, a move expected to directly benefit economically disadvantaged rural households across the state.

The minister added that the enhanced wage structure and expanded range of permissible works under VB-GRAM G are expected to strengthen livelihood opportunities and support rural development across Tripura.