MP Dharamvira Gandhi slams govt over US-India trade deal, MGNREGA changes

MP Dr Dharamvira Gandhi has raised concerns over recent policy changes affecting employment and agriculture. He strongly criticised the changes to the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), saying the proposed VB-G Ram G Mission replacement would dismantle a historic employment guarantee programme providing legal assurance of wage employment to rural households. “MGNREGA isn’t just a welfare scheme, it’s a statutory right ensuring livelihood security for millions of rural workers,” he said.

Dr Gandhi is concerned about the revised funding pattern, where the Centre’s contribution drops to 60 per cent, increasing states’ share to 40 per cent, burdening state governments. He warned this could weaken the programme and impact rural labourers.

He also criticised the US-India trade deal, saying increased access to US agricultural products could harm local farmers and markets, leading to price instability and distress for small farmers. He urged the government to reconsider these changes and consult stakeholders before implementing measures with far-reaching consequences.