Progress of 'Viksit Bharat – Ji Ram Ji' Scheme Reviewed by State and Centre

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan convened at New Delhi’s Agriculture Building on July 7 to assess the performance of the "Viksit Bharat – Ji Ram Ji" programme.

The officials examined the scheme’s implementation across the state, focusing on gram‑level project selection, transparent disbursement mechanisms and the role of gram chaupal in fostering rural employment and sustainable infrastructure.

Minister Chauhan reported that the scheme has already released INR 445 crore, with approximately INR 200 crore spent on approved works. He indicated that a second tranche of about INR 180 crore will be issued once the current funds are fully accounted for and utilised within the stipulated timeline.

The dialogue also covered Rajasthan’s broader rural development agenda, which envisions an annual spend of up to INR 12,000 crore for village‑wide projects decided by gram sabhas and gram panchayats. The approach is designed to generate employment, build permanent assets and stimulate long‑term economic benefits for rural communities.

Chauhan praised the state’s rapid utilisation of resources under the Prime Minister’s micro‑irrigation scheme, noting that timely spending will attract further central assistance. He also highlighted the transparent reconciliation of MGNREGA expenses, ensuring that all material and wage costs are matched without pending dues.

Chief Minister Sharma thanked the Union Minister for the central support, emphasizing that the integration of gram sabha decisions into policy execution has revitalised infrastructure development and job creation in Rajasthan’s villages.

The meeting underscored the Chief Minister’s on‑ground interactions through gram chaupal visits, where he engages directly with women, youth, farmers and local leaders to gauge needs and guide implementation. This hands‑on model, combined with transparent funding, is portrayed as a replicable template for rural development nationwide.