Reddy Calls for Additional Livelihood Projects Under VB‑G‑RAM‑G Scheme Amid El Niño

Delhi, July 28 – Chief Minister Revant Reddy, while pressing Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan for the release of over one million PMAY‑G houses, also sought the integration of new livelihood projects into the VB‑G‑RAM‑G (Employment and Livelihood Mission – Rural) scheme.

Reddy highlighted the looming El Niño scenario, which threatens to curtail agricultural work and exacerbate farmer distress. He proposed that the central government add tasks such as constructing net‑ted vegetable plots, developing fodder fields, encouraging mulberry cultivation, establishing sericulture sheds, setting up kitchen gardens for leafy greens, and planting bamboo plantations.

The chief minister further advocated for soil‑conserving measures on sloping terrains, moisture‑retaining pits in existing orchards, and the rehabilitation of flood‑ and sand‑damaged lands. These initiatives, he said, would not only protect the environment but also generate additional employment for farm labourers and marginal cultivators.

Reddy reminded the minister that under the MGNREGA‑linked Indiramma housing model, beneficiaries are entitled to 90 days of wage work while their homes are built. By expanding the VB‑G‑RAM‑G portfolio, Telangana aims to provide continuous work opportunities and improve the economic resilience of its rural population.