Imphal: As part of the nationwide preparedness for the implementation of the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) [VB-G RAM G], Shri Ramaavatar Meena, Director, Department of Rural Development (DoRD), Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, accompanied by Sankhil, RL Section Officer, DoRD, visited Imphal East District on July 9, 2026 to review the district’s readiness for the smooth rollout of the programme.
During the visit, a comprehensive review meeting was held with Dr. N. Johnson Meetei, District Programme Co-ordinator, and Block Development Officers/Programme Officers of Imphal East District. The meeting focused on assessing the progress of preparatory activities, including institutional readiness, awareness generation, capacity building of field functionaries, verification and updating of beneficiary records, technical preparedness of the Management Information System (MIS), and convergence planning with Gram Panchayats.
The District Programme Co-Ordinator, Imphal East Dr. N. Johnson Meetei highlighted overview of the district’s performance including days generated under the erstwhile Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), the Status of e-KYC coverage, Yuktdhara monitoring and timely payment etc.
Ramaavatar Meena emphasized the importance of ensuring a seamless transition to the VB-G RAM G framework by completing all pre-rollout activities within the stipulated timeline. Particular attention was given to the preparation of Gram Panchayat-level implementation plans, strengthening of transparency and accountability mechanisms, timely completion of e-KYC and worker databases, and effective coordination among district, block and Gram Panchayat functionaries.
The District Programme Co-ordinator apprised the visiting team of the measures already initiated for the rollout, including orientation programmes for officials, IEC activities, data validation and convergence with line departments. Challenges encountered during the preparatory phase were also discussed, and necessary guidance was provided for their timely resolution.
The team also undertook field visits to selected Gram Panchayats under Heingang CD Block, namely Khurai Khaidem Leikai GP and Khurai Chingangbam Leikai GP, and Sawombung CD Block, including Waiton and Sawombung, to assess ground-level preparedness and interact with block officials, stakeholders, implementing agencies and rural workers.
During the field inspection, the Director reviewed the status of ongoing works, availability of technical manpower, record maintenance, digital infrastructure and community participation in the planning process. He also suggested measures to improve the quality of implementation, ensure timely wage payments, strengthen social audit mechanisms and enhance public awareness regarding the objectives and provisions of the VB-G RAM G.
The visit concluded with a commitment from all stakeholders to ensure that Imphal East District is fully prepared for the effective implementation of VB-G RAM G in accordance with the guidelines of the Ministry of Rural Development. The review reaffirmed the collective commitment of the Government of India, the State Government and the District Programme Co-ordinator towards ensuring transparent, accountable and efficient delivery of rural employment and livelihood opportunities under the new programme.
