Viksit Bharat–GRAM Act: Expanding Rural Employment and Livelihoods in India

In a significant development for India’s rural populace, the President has officially given assent to the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, 2025. This landmark legislation, now an Act, is poised to usher in a new era of enhanced employment opportunities and livelihood security for millions of households across the nation’s villages. The assent, notified today, follows the bill’s successful passage through both houses of Parliament during the recently concluded winter session, marking a crucial step in the government’s commitment to inclusive growth.

The core of the Viksit Bharat–GRAM Act lies in its ambitious expansion of the statutory wage-employment guarantee. Under the provisions of this new law, eligible rural households will now be assured of 125 days of wage employment per financial year. This represents a notable increase from previous schemes, designed to provide greater financial stability and reduce distress migration from rural areas. The expanded guarantee is expected to inject considerable economic vitality into local economies, empowering families and fostering sustainable development at the grassroots level.

Beyond merely extending the number of guaranteed workdays, the Act also incorporates several key modifications to existing provisions related to rural employment schemes. These changes are aimed at streamlining the implementation process, ensuring greater transparency, and enhancing the overall effectiveness of the program. While specific details of these modifications will become clearer as the Act is rolled out, the overarching goal is to create a more robust and responsive framework that addresses the diverse needs and challenges faced by rural communities. This could include provisions for skill development, improved wage disbursement mechanisms, and better infrastructure for work execution.

The passage and presidential assent of the Viksit Bharat–GRAM Act underscore the government’s unwavering focus on the rural sector as a cornerstone of national progress. With a substantial portion of India’s population residing in villages, initiatives that directly impact rural livelihoods are considered vital for achieving the broader vision of a developed India, or “Viksit Bharat.” The Act is seen as a strategic intervention to bolster rural purchasing power, stimulate local demand, and contribute significantly to poverty alleviation efforts.

Experts suggest that the success of the Viksit Bharat–GRAM Act will hinge on its efficient and equitable implementation. Robust monitoring mechanisms, community participation, and a proactive administrative approach will be crucial to ensure that the benefits reach the intended beneficiaries without leakages or delays. The Act also presents an opportunity to integrate various rural development programs, creating a synergistic effect that maximizes impact and promotes holistic advancement in rural India. As the nation moves towards 2025, this legislation stands as a beacon of hope for a more prosperous and secure future for its rural citizens.