Politics · India Bureau
Tamil Nadu extends rural job guarantee scheme to 150 days for vulnerable households
The Tamil Nadu government has approved an additional 25 days of guaranteed employment for vulnerable rural households under its expanded 'Vetri 150' scheme. The initiative, backed by ₹100 crore in funding for the 2026-27 financial year, raises the employment guarantee to 150 days annually for women-headed households and marginalized communities.
LSN India ·
Tamil Nadu has rolled out an enhanced employment guarantee programme targeting vulnerable rural populations, extending work availability to 150 days per annum. The scheme, designated 'Vetri 150', builds upon the existing VBGRAM (Village-Based Gram Rojgar Avadhayam Munnettri) framework by providing an additional 25 days of assured employment beyond the current provision.
The initiative prioritizes women-headed households, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and other economically disadvantaged groups in rural areas. By increasing the employment guarantee period, the scheme aims to provide greater income stability and reduce seasonal unemployment pressures in agrarian regions.
The state government has allocated ₹100 crore to fund the programme during the 2026-27 fiscal year, ensuring sustained implementation across eligible districts. This financial commitment reflects the government's focus on strengthening rural livelihoods and social protection mechanisms.
The expanded scheme represents a significant step in addressing rural unemployment and underemployment challenges. By guaranteeing additional work days at statutory minimum wages, the programme seeks to provide vulnerable households with predictable income sources while supporting rural infrastructure development and maintenance activities.