Shillong, February 2: The Meghalaya government has welcomed the transition to the VB-G RAM G Act, 2025, expressing confidence that the new framework will bring enhanced benefits to the State’s rural population. Community and Rural Development Minister Sosthenes Sohtun on Monday said the scheme would significantly strengthen rural employment and infrastructure development in Meghalaya.

The VB-G RAM G Act replaces the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and provides for an increased allocation covering up to 125 days of work. The expanded scope of the scheme includes works related to rural schools, and is expected to raise the overall budgetary outlay from the existing Rs 1,200–1,500 crore range to around Rs 2,000 crore.

Highlighting a key financial reform under the new Act, Sohtun said the State’s contribution towards material costs would be reduced from 25 per cent to 10 per cent, a move he described as beneficial for job card holders and unskilled workers across rural areas.

“The reduction in the State’s share of material costs will directly benefit rural workers and ensure better utilisation of funds,” the minister said.

Sohtun also underscored the emphasis on transparency and accountability under the new scheme, noting that Village Employment Councils (VECs) and job card holders would be empowered to monitor work execution and benefit delivery. He instructed officials to remain vigilant and ensure that funds are not misused at any level.

Addressing challenges related to internet connectivity, particularly for eKYC processes, the minister assured that steps would be taken to improve digital infrastructure in rural areas. “I will take up the matter with the Chief Minister and collect detailed data from VECs to address these issues,” he said, reiterating the government’s commitment to ensuring that the benefits of the scheme reach the intended beneficiaries.