Government schemes in India often carry long and complex names, making their full forms difficult to recall at a glance. The discussion around such names has once again picked up pace after Parliament approved the VB-G RAM G Bill, which is set to replace the long-running MGNREGA scheme. While the objective of these initiatives is usually clear, remembering what each abbreviation actually stands for can be a challenge for most people.
The newly passed VB-G RAM G Bill has brought this issue back into the spotlight. Its lengthy official name has surprised many, but it is not the first time that a government programme has been known more by its short form than by its full title. From food security and health insurance to farmer welfare and women-centric initiatives, several flagship schemes are better recognized by acronyms.
Here is a detailed look at 10 major government schemes and bills, including the much-talked-about VB-G RAM G Bill, along with their full forms and key objectives.
Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill
The VB-G RAM G Bill has been passed by Parliament as a replacement for MGNREGA. Under this new law, every rural household willing to work is legally guaranteed 125 days of paid employment per year. The government says the bill aligns with the broader vision of a “Viksit Bharat” by strengthening rural livelihoods and employment opportunities.
Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act
MGNREGA was one of India’s largest employment guarantee programmes, ensuring wage employment for rural households. It is now being phased out and replaced by the VB-G RAM G Bill, which promises a higher number of guaranteed workdays.
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana
PMGKAY focuses on food security. Under this scheme, eligible beneficiaries receive up to 5 kilograms of free food grains per month, helping millions of low-income families meet their basic nutrition needs.
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
This crop insurance scheme is designed to protect farmers from financial losses caused by natural calamities, pests, or crop failure. PMFBY provides compensation to farmers, reducing the financial risks associated with agriculture.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana
SSY is a savings scheme aimed at securing the financial future of the girl child. Parents can invest in this tax-free scheme and earn attractive interest, allowing them to build a substantial corpus—often exceeding ₹70 lakh over time—by the time the child reaches maturity.
Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
PMUY focuses on clean cooking fuel. Under this initiative, eligible women from economically weaker sections receive free LPG connections, helping reduce dependence on traditional fuels and improving health outcomes.
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi
PM-KISAN provides direct income support to farmers. Eligible farmers receive annual financial assistance in installments, helping them manage agricultural and household expenses.
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthan Mahabhiyan
This scheme promotes renewable energy in agriculture. PM-KUSUM supports farmers in installing solar pumps and solar power plants, reducing electricity costs and encouraging sustainable farming practices.
Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana
One of the largest health insurance schemes in the world, AB-PMJAY offers cashless medical treatment of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for eligible poor and vulnerable households.
Prime Minister Early Career Research Grant
PM-ECRG is aimed at encouraging young researchers. Under this programme, eligible early-career researchers can receive grants of up to ₹60 lakh to support innovative research projects.
While these schemes play a crucial role in welfare and development, their lengthy names often make them hard to remember. Acronyms simplify communication, but understanding the full forms helps citizens better grasp the scope and intent of each initiative.
With the VB-G RAM G Bill joining this list, it is clear that government programmes may continue to have ambitious names that reflect broader national goals—whether it is employment, health, food security, or research.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. For eligibility criteria and benefits, readers should refer to official government notifications or consult authorized sources before making decisions.
