India's Rural Jobs Scheme Empowers Women

India's revitalized rural employment initiative, the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) or VB-GRAM G, has seen remarkable early success in empowering women. In its first three weeks of operation, from July 1 to July 20, 2026, women contributed over 63% of the 4.62 crore person-days generated.

This significant participation is attributed to the scheme's expanded framework, which now includes roles beyond traditional manual labor. Women are increasingly taking on supervisory positions, managing nurseries, compost units, and rural markets, thereby strengthening community engagement and workplace monitoring.

To further support female workers, VB-GRAM G has integrated practical provisions like dedicated childcare services at worksites where five or more children under five are present. This inclusive approach aims to remove barriers and foster sustained participation.

The scheme also offers enhanced benefits, including an extended employment guarantee of 125 days (up from 100 under MGNREGA) and a raised daily wage, now at a minimum of ₹300. Additionally, workers injured on duty receive free medical treatment and ex gratia compensation in case of death or disability.

Experts note that while early trends are promising, the scheme's long-term success hinges on consistent implementation, timely wage payments, and the creation of durable livelihoods and productive community assets. The allocated budget for FY27 is ₹95,692.31 crore, an increase from previous allocations.