Is VB-G Ram G a Direct Assault on Federalism?
Synopsis
On December 19, BRS leader T. Harish Rao criticized the VB-G Ram G initiative for threatening India's federalism. He accused the BJP of imposing financial burdens on states while Congress remains silent. This political battle highlights the struggle over state autonomy and employment rights in the face of centralizing policies.
Key Takeaways
VB-G Ram G initiative criticized for undermining federalism.
Accusations against BJP for financial burdens on states.
Congress accused of hypocrisy regarding state autonomy.
Employment rights at risk due to central policies.
Political name changes affect public trust.
Hyderabad, Dec 19 (NationPress) Senior leader of Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), T. Harish Rao, remarked on Friday that the VB-G Ram G initiative is not just a simple name alteration but constitutes a direct challenge to India's federal structure.
He accused the BJP-led government of shifting a significant financial strain onto the states under the guise of a 60:40 funding ratio, thereby intentionally undermining the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).
According to the former minister, the Viksit Bharat - Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Bill, 2025 is crafted to diminish the authority of states and bolster central control.
Rao criticized the Congress party for its inaction regarding the 60:40 ratio, highlighting its duplicity.
“While they pose as defenders of federalism in opposition, Congress tacitly endorses BJP’s initiatives that erode state power. This bill illustrates that both BJP and Congress unite in their centralizing agenda, jeopardizing the people's right to employment and the autonomy of states. This is not a reform; it is an assault on federalism,” he asserted.
Previously, BRS working president K.T. Rama Rao labeled the removal of Mahatma Gandhi's name from the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme as an unforgivable act.
He claimed that both Congress and BJP are guilty of altering and eliminating scheme names.
KTR denounced the BJP for stifling employment opportunities for rural citizens, stating, “The BJP, which has removed the name of our Father of the Nation, lacks any moral standing to call itself a national party,” he said.
He also targeted Congress for its name changes in Telangana.
“The Annapurna canteens, which were not politically affiliated and provided meals to the impoverished for just five rupees, have been rebranded as Indiramma Canteens. Is this not trivial politics by Congress?” he questioned.
KTR noted that Bathukamma Sarees represented Telangana's heritage, but halting the scheme dealt a heavy blow to the handloom workers, ultimately transforming it into Indiramma Sarees.
The BRS working president also criticized Congress for altering the design of the ‘Telangana Thalli’ statue and renaming the ‘Rythu Bandhu’ scheme to ‘Rythu Bharosa’.
Point of View
The developments surrounding the VB-G Ram G initiative raise significant concerns about the balance of power between the state and central governments in India. The ongoing debate reflects a crucial moment in India's political landscape, emphasizing the importance of maintaining federalism and protecting citizens' rights.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is T. Harish Rao?
T. Harish Rao is a senior leader of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) and has been vocal about the implications of the VB-G Ram G initiative.
Why is the 60:40 funding ratio controversial?
The 60:40 funding ratio is seen as a way for the central government to impose financial burdens on states, weakening their autonomy.
What does Harish Rao say about Congress?
Harish Rao accuses Congress of hypocrisy for not opposing the central government's measures that threaten federalism while pretending to support it in opposition.
What are the implications of changing scheme names?
Changing scheme names can signify a shift in governance priorities and affect public perception and trust in governmental programs.
