ERODE, 18 January 2026: Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said the newly introduced “Viksit Bharat – G Ram G” law marks a decisive step towards building self-reliant villages, as he interacted with farmers and rural workers in Erode, Tamil Nadu.
Addressing labourers, Chouhan said the legislation aims to strengthen employment generation, expand basic infrastructure and empower village-level governance. He stressed that genuine development of villages can only be achieved through active public participation and decentralised decision-making.
Highlighting key reforms, the minister said the guaranteed employment period under the rural employment programme has been increased from 100 days to 125 days. Under the new provisions, workers will be entitled to an unemployment allowance if work is not provided within the stipulated timeframe. Additionally, if wage payments are delayed beyond 15 days, interest compensation will be paid to beneficiaries.
Chouhan said administrative expenditure has been raised from 6% to 9% to ensure timely payments to field staff and improve the scheme’s overall efficiency. “No one will be allowed to siphon off money meant for labourers and workers,” he said, adding that all payments will continue to be made directly into workers’ bank accounts to eliminate corruption.
A major structural change under the law is the enhanced role of Gram Sabhas. Village assemblies will now decide the nature and priority of development works, shifting decision-making away from state capitals and New Delhi to the grassroots level.
During his visit to Erode’s renowned turmeric market, Chouhan announced the establishment of a turmeric testing laboratory and directed the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to take immediate steps. The facility will enable quality testing, certification and improved market access for turmeric farmers.
He also assured farmers that efforts are underway to set up a regional office of the Turmeric Board in Erode, which would help strengthen policy support and export opportunities. Chouhan further highlighted the need for cold storage infrastructure in the region and said funds under central schemes and RKVY could be utilised for the same.
The minister also interacted with over 1,000 women farmers and reviewed more than 100 stalls showcasing agricultural innovations. He met representatives of farmer organisations and progressive cultivators, underscoring the importance of quality seed development through ICAR to improve productivity.
Analysts say the reforms signal a renewed push towards decentralised rural governance and income security, aligning with the government’s broader Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.