Punjab Implements VB-GRAM-G Rural Employment Scheme, Rollout Begins from July 1

Punjab has officially notified the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin), or VB-GRAM-G Scheme. The rural employment programme will begin across the state on July 1, 2026. It replaces the previous employment framework under the Centre’s new legislation.

The Department of Rural Development and Panchayats issued the notification on June 26. According to the government, the initiative supports the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 while strengthening rural development in Punjab.

Under the new programme, eligible rural households can receive up to 125 days of wage employment every financial year. Adult members who volunteer for unskilled manual work will qualify for the benefit. Earlier, the employment guarantee was limited to 100 days.

The government says the initiative will create more jobs and improve rural livelihoods. It also aims to develop village infrastructure and increase opportunities for income generation. In addition, officials expect better coordination between existing welfare schemes.

The Centre and the Punjab Government will share the cost of the programme in a 60:40 ratio. Existing workers will continue without interruption during the transition. Ongoing projects will also continue. Eligible job card holders will remain covered under the new system.

Workers will receive wages through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). As a result, payments are expected to remain transparent and reach beneficiaries on time.

The rollout marks an important policy change for Punjab. Earlier, the state had raised objections to the legislation during Assembly discussions. However, the government has now officially adopted the programme and will implement it from July 1.

Officials believe the VB-GRAM-G Scheme will improve livelihood security, strengthen village infrastructure, and create more employment opportunities. They also expect higher rural investment to boost household incomes, build durable community assets, and support long-term economic growth across Punjab.

The government says the scheme aims to create more employment opportunities while supporting sustainable rural development. It will focus on village infrastructure projects, livelihood generation, and better convergence of welfare schemes. Officials also said the initiative is designed to ensure that development benefits reach eligible rural households across the state.