The Centre’s newly launched rural employment scheme, VB-G RAM G (Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission Gramin), is facing significant implementation hurdles in West Bengal shortly after its rollout, primarily due to the large-scale absence of Gram Panchayat heads across the state.

Nearly two months after a political transition, administrative functioning at the grassroots appears disrupted. Reports indicate that Pradhans from nearly 2,000 of the state’s approximately 3,300 Gram Panchayats—most previously governed by the Trinamool Congress—have stopped attending their offices. While they have neither resigned nor left their villages, their continued absence has effectively created a governance vacuum.

The crisis has raised concerns within the Panchayat Department, headed by Dilip Ghosh, as the scheme’s execution depends heavily on Pradhans.

Launched nationwide on July 1, the programme guarantees 125 days of work annually—an increase from the earlier 100 days under previous rural employment schemes.

West Bengal aims to undertake projects worth nearly ₹15,000 crore under the scheme within the remaining eight months of the current financial year. However, under existing Panchayat laws, Pradhans play a crucial role in approving projects, convening Gram Sabha meetings, and passing resolutions. These powers cannot be delegated in their absence, bringing administrative processes to a standstill.

Risk of wage delays and financial penalties

The disruption has also triggered concerns over timely wage payments. As per the scheme’s guidelines, workers must be paid within 15 days, failing which a delay compensation penalty of 2% per day is imposed. Officials fear that without necessary approvals, funds may remain stuck, potentially resulting in penalties amounting to crores, thereby burdening the state exchequer.

To address the deadlock, the Panchayat Department is considering two immediate options: persuading absentee Pradhans to return to their duties or facilitating their resignation. In case of resignation, Upa-Pradhans can be given temporary charge through an emergency board meeting, followed by the election of a new Pradhan within a month, as mandated by law.

Administrative Push from Nabanna

The issue was flagged during a recent administrative review chaired by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. She reportedly directed Panchayat Secretary P. Ulaganathan to coordinate with District Magistrates and ensure swift alternative arrangements.

Following the directive, the department convened a meeting with all District Magistrates, instructing them to directly contact absentee Pradhans and urge them to resume work. Simultaneously, local legislators have been tasked with delivering a clear political message—either return to office and fulfill responsibilities or step down.

Officials at Nabanna maintain that developmental work cannot be allowed to stall due to administrative inaction. The coming weeks are expected to be critical in determining whether the state can resolve the impasse and ensure smooth implementation of the ambitious rural employment scheme.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share