Cabinet Approves PM Viksit Gram Swaraj Yojana (PM VGSY) with ₹7,395.55 Crore Outlay

Why in the News?

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister **Narendra Modi**, approved the **Pradhan Mantri Viksit Gram Swaraj Yojana (PM VGSY)**, a Centrally Sponsored Scheme to strengthen grassroots democracy, local governance, and participatory planning across India.

Key Features / Major Points:

- Outlay & Tenure: Implemented from **FY 2026–27 to 2030–31** (aligned with the 16th Finance Commission period) with a total financial outlay of **₹7,395.55 crore** (Central Share: ₹4,869.48 crore; State Share: ₹2,526.07 crore).

- Direct Coverage: Benefits over **32 lakh elected representatives** and Panchayati Raj functionaries across **2.55 lakh+ Gram Panchayats** and Traditional Local Bodies.

- Participatory Planning: Facilitates the annual preparation of at least **2.55 lakh comprehensive Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDP)** via the **eGramSwaraj** portal.

- AI Multilingual Outreach (PANCHAM): Uses **PANCHAM**, an AI-enabled communication tool available in 17 Indian languages, to raise citizen awareness about government programs.

- Financial Transparency: Mandates at least **2.55 lakh online audit plans** and timely execution of audits annually through **AuditOnline**, boosting Panchayats' own-source revenue (OSR) mobilization.

Static GK Facts:

- Ministry of Panchayati Raj:

- Union Cabinet Minister: **Lalan Singh (Rajiv Ranjan Singh)**.

- National Panchayati Raj Day: Celebrated annually on **April 24**.

- 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992:

- Granted constitutional status to Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).

- Inserted **Part IX** and the **11th Schedule** (containing 29 functional subjects) into the Indian Constitution.

One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):

Q: What is the total outlay approved for the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Gram Swaraj Yojana (PM VGSY)?

A: ₹7,395.55 Crore

Q: For which implementation tenure has PM VGSY been approved by the Union Cabinet?

A: 2026–27 to 2030–31 (16th Finance Commission period)

Q: Which AI-enabled multilingual platform available in 17 Indian languages will be used under PM VGSY?

A: PANCHAM

Q: On which date is National Panchayati Raj Day observed annually in India?

A: April 24

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