The Rajya Sabha today took up a discussion on the working of the Ministry of Rural Development. Initiating the discussion, BJP MP K Laxman said that VB G RAM G Bill has uplifted the lives of people in villages. He praised it for being a very transparent scheme. He highlighted that under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Grameen, the government has not only constructed pucca houses for the needy but also provided them dignity. He said schemes like MUDRA and UJJWALA have changed the lives of people in rural areas.

 

Participating in the discussion, Congress MP Rajani Patil opined that the allocation for Rural Development in the Union Budget is not sufficient. She pointed out that farmers are struggling with inflation and unemployment, and they must be given every support. 

 

TMC’s Md Nadimul Haque claimed that nearly 25 thousand crore rupees is due under PM AWAS Yojana – Grameen to West Bengal. He alleged that this has deprived 11 lakh families of houses. Sulata Deo of BJD alleged that the Central government has not been able to uplift the adivasis of Odisha. 

 

CPI(M) MP Dr John Brittas alleged that VB G RAM G Bill has heaped 40 per cent of the burden on the states. 

 

The discussion remained inconclusive. Later, the House took up Special Mentions, after which it was adjourned for the day.