The fund release marks the first major financial allocation under the newly launched rural employment and livelihood programme, which has replaced the earlier rural employment framework and is being rolled out nationwide from July 1, 2026.

Addressing the meeting, Chouhan said the government had committed to ensuring that the transition to the new scheme took place without disruption. According to him, the implementation process across states has been smooth, and the shift from the previous system to VB–G Ram G has been completed successfully.

The minister stated that no major technical or operational complaints have been reported since the programme became operational. He added that the Centre is closely monitoring implementation to ensure that rural workers continue receiving employment opportunities and timely wage payments.

Highlighting the objectives of the scheme, Chouhan said the government remains focused on providing dignified employment to rural labourers, ensuring prompt wage disbursal and creating durable rural assets that contribute to long-term development.

A key feature of the programme is the increase in wage rates. The minister said wages under the scheme have been revised upward by an average of nearly 10 percent. As a result, no state in the country will have a wage rate below ₹300 per day under the programme.

The wage revision is expected to benefit millions of rural workers and comes amid continued efforts by the Centre to strengthen income security in rural areas. Officials believe higher wages could improve purchasing power while also encouraging greater participation in development works undertaken through local bodies.

Chouhan noted that the ₹25,863 crore released on Sunday has been sanctioned to ensure states have adequate resources available at the start of implementation. The allocation is intended to support uninterrupted operations and facilitate wage payments within the stipulated timeline.

Under the scheme guidelines, workers are expected to receive wages within 15 days. The minister urged state governments to release their respective shares on time so that payment delays can be avoided.

He also assured states that there would be no shortage of funds for the programme. According to the ministry, the first instalment has been released based on demands received from states, and additional financial support will be provided as requirements arise during implementation.

The Centre has placed significant emphasis on decentralised planning under the new programme. Chouhan said Gram Sabhas and Gram Panchayats should play a leading role in identifying local development priorities and selecting projects that address the specific needs of rural communities.

Officials said the approach is intended to strengthen community participation and ensure that public works undertaken under the scheme generate lasting benefits for villages. Infrastructure creation, livelihood support and local asset development are expected to remain key focus areas.

The launch and funding of VB–G Ram G represent one of the government’s major rural development initiatives under the broader Viksit Bharat vision. With the first tranche now released, attention will shift to implementation on the ground and the ability of states to execute projects efficiently while ensuring timely benefits for rural workers.

Further updates on fund utilisation and project progress are expected in the coming months as states begin large-scale execution under the programme.