West Bengal to issue job cards to 2.2 million migrant worker families

The West Bengal government has launched an initiative to issue ‘Gramin Rozgar Guarantee Cards’ (GRGC) to the families of approximately 2.24 million identified migrant workers. District magistrates across the state have been directed to identify these families and verify their data to ensure 100 percent coverage.

Under the ‘Vikasit Bharat – Guarantee for Employment and Livelihood Mission (Rural) (VB-G-RAM Ji) Act, 2025’, which took effect on July 1, eligible rural families are guaranteed up to 125 days of wage employment per financial year. This employment is primarily intended for adult members willing to perform unskilled physical labor.

The program aims to boost local economies and reduce forced migration by providing regular income opportunities within villages. The state’s Rural Development Ministry has approved approximately ₹12.65 crore for the scheme, with assurances of central assistance. Data shows Murshidabad has the highest number of identified migrant workers at 386,191, followed by Malda.