Karnataka govt may not adopt Centre’s VB-G RAM G Act
Karnataka’s Karnataka Cabinet has condemned the Union government’s VB-G RAM G Act, which replaces MGNREGA, and is considering non-adoption in favor of its own scheme. This development stems from a recent cabinet meeting where officials criticized the centralization of powers.
The state objects to shifting from a demand-driven to supply-driven model, reducing panchayat autonomy, and changing funding from 90:10 (Centre:state) to 60:40. Law Minister HK Patil highlighted that central decisions undermine Gram Swaraj and benefit contractors over local needs. CM Siddaramaiah has argued the act violates constitutional articles on federalism.
Karnataka plans its own Mahatma Gandhi-named employment scheme, potentially rejecting central funds, with an announcement expected from the CM. The AICC will protest starting January 5, amid concerns over impacts on rural livelihoods and panchayat funding. In 2025-26, the state targeted nine crore persondays under MGNREGA, creating significant local assets.
