Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Suhu has directed officers to ensure timely delivery of benefits to the intended beneficiaries. File | Photo Credit: PTI
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu on Wednesday (July 8, 2026) said that repealing the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and replacing it with a new Vikshit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (VB-G RAM G) is not in the interest of the hill state as it will further strain the already limited resources.
VB-G RAM G vs MGNREGA: State expenditure may rise six times from ₹7,600 crore to ₹51,000 crore
Mr. Suhu, who chaired a review meeting of his government’s Rural Development Department and Panchayati Raj in Shimla, said that while MGNREGA was fully funded by the central government, the new scheme required states to bear 10% of the cost, which placed an additional financial burden on Himachal Pradesh’s limited resources. The issue will be raised with the central government, he said.
“The state government is making concerted efforts to strengthen the Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, recognizing its key role in the holistic development of rural areas of Himachal Pradesh. Vacant posts in the department are being filled on priority basis to enhance administrative efficiency,” he said, adding that more recruitment will be undertaken in the coming period.
Mr Suhu directed officers to ensure timely delivery of benefits to intended beneficiaries. He also directed the Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj to integrate all major schemes of the department with the Chief Minister’s dashboard for effective online monitoring.
Financial assistance is being provided to self-help groups to improve their living conditions, Mr. Suhu said, highlighting the state government’s commitment to empowering rural women.
Published – July 8, 2026 06:10 PM EST.