Scrapping MGNREGA further strains Himachal Pradesh’s already limited resources: CM Sukhu

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Wednesday (July 8, 2026) said that scrapping the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and replacing it with the new Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (VB-G RAM G) does not serve the hill State’s interests as it would further strain already limited resources.

VB-G RAM G vs MGNREGA: States’ expenditure could go up six-fold from ₹7,600 cr to ₹51,000 cr

Mr. Sukhu, who was presiding over a review meeting of his government’s Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department in Shimla, said that while MGNREGA was fully funded by the Central government, the new scheme required States to cover 10% of the costs, which placed an additional financial burden on Himachal Pradesh’s limited resources. The issue would be raised with the Central government, he said.

“The State government is making concerted efforts to strengthen the Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Department, recognising its pivotal role in the holistic development of rural Himachal Pradesh. Vacant posts in the department are being filled on a priority basis to enhance administrative efficiency,” he said, adding that more recruitments would be undertaken in the coming period.

Mr. Sukhu directed officers to ensure benefits reach intended beneficiaries in a timely manner. He also instructed the Secretary, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, to integrate all flagship schemes of the department with the Chief Minister’s dashboard for effective online monitoring.

Financial assistance was being extended to Self Help Groups to strengthen livelihoods, Mr. Sukhu said, highlighting the State government’s commitment to empowering rural women.