Finance
The Central Government recently announced a significant financial package for rural development, totaling Rs 1.25 lakh crore under its new framework, “Viksit Bharat GRAMG” (VB-G RAM G). The program will formally begin on July 1, 2026, with the goal of revitalizing the rural economy, strengthening village infrastructure, and developing long-term communal assets. Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers Welfare, and Rural Development, stated that the Centre had already provided an initial Rs 30,000 crore to states and union territories. To keep the pace rolling, another Rs 95,692.31 crore was released, bringing the entire funding pool above Rs 1.25 lakh crore.
Odisha benefited significantly from this allotment, receiving Rs 3,763.80 crore. The funding will be used to improve rural roads, save water, develop property, and build community infrastructure throughout the state. Because agriculture and associated sectors continue to be the primary sources of income in Odisha, both scholars and state authorities see this investment as a means of reducing poverty, improving public services, and creating critical wage jobs for lakhs of rural people. Local governments will drive execution, focusing on long-term assets that help the economy thrive over time.
Nationally, Uttar Pradesh receives the most, with Rs 12,221.48 crore, followed by West Bengal with Rs 8,508 crore, Tamil Nadu with Rs 7,957.57 crore, Andhra Pradesh with Rs 7,707.21 crore, and Rajasthan with Rs 7,581.87 crore. During a review conference with state officials in Bhubaneswar, Minister Chouhan advised states to ensure that there are no delays in job chances or wage payments as the official rollout date approaches. He also emphasized that project plans should stem directly from consultations with local panchayats and Gram Sabhas to ensure that true grassroots needs are satisfied. The Centre intends to publish detailed operating instructions before the framework goes live next month.
