The newly launched rural employment scheme ‘VB-G RAM G’ (Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission Gramin) by the Centre is facing serious implementation challenges in West Bengal shortly after its rollout, primarily due to the widespread absence of Gram Panchayat heads.
Nearly two months after a political transition in the state, administrative functioning at the grassroots level appears disrupted. Reports indicate that Pradhans (elected heads) of nearly 2,000 out of approximately 3,300 Gram Panchayats — most of them previously run by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) — have stopped attending their offices. While they have not officially resigned or left their villages, their continued absence has created a governance vacuum.
The situation has raised concerns within the Panchayat Department, headed by Dillip Ghosh, as the functioning of the scheme heavily depends on the participation of Pradhans. Launched in the state on July 1 alongside the rest of the country, the ‘VB-G RAM G’ scheme — an expanded version of the rural employment programme — guarantees 125 days of work annually, up from the earlier 100 days.
The state aims to execute projects worth nearly Rs 15,000 crore under the scheme within the remaining eight months of the current financial year. However, under existing Panchayat laws, Pradhans are essential for approving projects, convening Gram Sabha meetings, and passing resolutions. Their powers cannot be delegated in their absence, making administrative processes effectively non-functional.
The disruption has also triggered concerns over wage payments. As per scheme guidelines, workers must be paid within 15 days, failing which a delay compensation penalty of 2 per cent per day is imposed. Officials fear that without the required authorisations, funds may remain stuck, potentially resulting in penalties amounting to crores of rupees, ultimately burdening the state exchequer.
To break the deadlock, the Panchayat Department is considering two immediate options: persuading the absentee Pradhans to return to their offices or facilitating their resignation. In the event of resignation, Upa-Pradhans (deputy heads) can be given temporary charge through an emergency board meeting, followed by the mandatory election of a new Pradhan within a month.
The issue was flagged during a recent administrative review chaired by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. She reportedly directed Panchayat Secretary P. Ulaganathan to consult District Magistrates and ensure that alternative arrangements are put in place without delay.
Following the directive, the Panchayat Department convened a meeting with all District Magistrates, instructing them to directly reach out to the absentee Pradhans and urge them to resume their duties. Simultaneously, local legislators have been tasked with conveying a firm political message: either return to office and carry out responsibilities or step down.
Officials at Nabanna, the state secretariat, maintain that developmental work cannot be allowed to stall indefinitely due to administrative inaction. The coming weeks are expected to be crucial in determining whether the state can overcome this bottleneck and ensure smooth implementation of the ambitious rural employment scheme.
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