The Rural Development Department, Government of Nagaland, on Thursday joined the Nationwide launch of Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) at the RD Directorate Conference Hall, marking the rollout of a new rural development framework that replaces the 2005 MGNREGA model.
Delivering the keynote address, Commissioner and Secretary, Rural Development, Thavaseelan K, IAS, described the launch as a significant milestone in strengthening rural livelihoods and advancing the vision of a Viksit Bharat through empowered villages, resilient communities and sustainable economic growth.
He said Nagaland possesses immense potential in sectors such as agriculture, horticulture, handicrafts, handloom, bamboo and other rural enterprises. By combining traditional knowledge with modern technology, innovation and stronger market linkages, he said, the state can create sustainable livelihood opportunities for rural communities.
Highlighting the key features of the new scheme, Thavaseelan said VB-G RAM G is founded on the principles of digital governance and evidence-based planning. These include GIS mapping and geo-tagging of public assets and development works for location-based planning and transparent monitoring, mobile-based data collection through e-KYC and the National Mobile Monitoring System (NMMS) for real-time field reporting, and participatory planning involving Village Development Boards, Village Councils, Self-Help Groups and local communities.
He further stated that the scheme focuses on four major thematic areas: water security through irrigation, groundwater recharge and watershed development; strengthening core rural infrastructure such as roads and connectivity; creation of livelihood infrastructure including storage facilities, markets and productive community assets; and enhancing climate resilience through works aimed at mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events.
Addressing members of Self-Help Groups, the Commissioner and Secretary said their role under the new mission would become even more significant in promoting livelihood opportunities, strengthening community institutions and supporting inclusive rural development.
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He also urged district-level officers, Block Development Officers, Village Development Boards, Village Councils, village functionaries and all stakeholders to implement the scheme with commitment and collaboration. Expressing confidence in the initiative, he said VB-G RAM G would significantly strengthen rural development in Nagaland, generate sustainable livelihoods and improve the quality of life of the people.
Concluding the launch programme of the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G), Director M Mong Nakonyak expressed gratitude to all participants and called for collective commitment to ensure the successful implementation of the flagship rural development initiative.
Addressing the gathering, she thanked the Commissioner and Secretary Thavaseelan K, IAS, senior officers from the Secretariat, officials of the Rural Development Department, and all staff members for participating in the programme.
She described VB-G RAM G as more than just a government scheme, calling it a commitment to strengthening rural livelihoods, creating sustainable employment opportunities, and improving the overall quality of life in villages.
Expressing confidence in the programme’s potential, the Director said the initiative would bring transformative changes to rural communities and make a significant contribution to the nation’s development. She stressed that its success would depend on the collective efforts, dedication, and sincerity of all stakeholders involved in its implementation.
Nakonyak urged all concerned officers and stakeholders to strictly adhere to the Ministry’s guidelines and ensure that the benefits of the programme reach every deserving household. She appealed to everyone to work with a strong sense of responsibility and purpose to make the initiative a meaningful success.
She also thanked all participants for their cooperation and encouraged them to move forward with determination and commitment for the welfare of the people. She also conveyed special appreciation to the media fraternity for its continued cooperation and support in promoting the programme.
Earlier, Deputy Director, Rural Development, John Wesley Magh, presented an overview of the VB-G RAM G Scheme and the Viksit Gram Panchayat Plan (VGPP)
The programme was led by Jenny Kath, Deputy Director, RD
