Union Cabinet approves Pradhan Mantri Viksit Gram Swaraj Yojana

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Gram Swaraj Yojana (PM VGSY). According to the PIB report, this is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme which is an initiative for next-generation governance transformation aligned with the national vision of Viksit Bharat. The implementation of this scheme will be carried out starting from the year 2026-27 up to 2030-31, a period that will be consistent with the timeframe of the Sixteenth Finance Commission.

A total outlay of ₹7,395.55 crore has been planned for this scheme. Out of this total amount, the Central Government's share will be ₹4,869.48 crore, while the share of State Governments will be ₹2,526.07 crore. The scope of this scheme is very vast, encompassing more than 2.55 lakh panchayats and traditional local bodies. The direct beneficiaries of this scheme include approximately 32 lakh elected representatives, panchayat functionaries and other stakeholders. In addition, a target has been set to reach at least 1 crore citizens through every awareness generation program.

All States and Union Territories will be covered for the implementation of the scheme. This will also include rural local governance bodies of those Non-Part IX areas where panchayats do not exist. The scheme will be implemented by the respective State Governments and administrations of Union Territories. States and Union Territories will submit Annual Action Plans detailing activities, priorities and requirements according to the objectives and guidelines of the scheme. A designated Central Empowered Committee will evaluate and approve these plans.

Clarifying regarding employment, the PIB has stated that no permanent posts will be created under this scheme. However, contractual human resources may be appointed at the State, District and Block levels as per requirement to achieve the objectives of the scheme and provide technical support. The Central Government and States will undertake activities within their respective domains, which will be supported by technical assistance, monitoring and review. Existing institutional, capacity building, digital and communication systems will be utilized for implementation at the grassroots level.