Odisha Secures ₹3,763 Crore Under Centre’s New Viksit Bharat GRAMG Scheme

The Central Government just rolled out a big move for rural development—a funding package topping Rs 1.25 lakh crore under its new framework, “Viksit Bharat GRAMG” (VB-G RAM G). The scheme officially starts on July 1, 2026, and aims to revitalize the rural economy, strengthen village infrastructure, and build sustainable community assets. Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, shared that the Centre already deployed an initial Rs 30,000 crore to states and Union Territories. To keep the momentum going, another Rs 95,692.31 crore was released, pushing the total financial pool past Rs 1.25 lakh crore.

From this allocation, Odisha landed a notable share—Rs 3,763.80 crore. The funds will go towards improving rural roads, water conservation, land development, and community infrastructure across the state. Because agriculture and related sectors remain the principal livelihoods across Odisha, both experts and state officials see this funding as a way to cut poverty, improve public services, and create crucial wage jobs for lakhs of rural families. Local administrations will drive execution, targeting long-lasting assets that help the economy grow over time.

Nationally, Uttar Pradesh tops the list, getting Rs 12,221.48 crore, followed by West Bengal with Rs 8,508 crore, Tamil Nadu at Rs 7,957.57 crore, Andhra Pradesh at Rs 7,707.21 crore, and Rajasthan with Rs 7,581.87 crore. During a review meeting with state officials in Bhubaneswar, Minister Chouhan told states to make sure there are no hiccups in job opportunities or wage payments as the official rollout approaches. He also stressed that project proposals need to come straight from discussions with local panchayats and Gram Sabhas, so actual grassroots needs get met. The Centre plans to publish full operational guidelines before the framework gets underway next month.