Dr. B.D. Kalla Raises Concerns on Employment, Water, and Khejri Protection in Exclusive Interview

Kuldeep Singh Chundawat November 7, 2026, 11:59 am 4 min read

Bikaner, November 7: In an exclusive interview on the second episode of ‘Chaupal’, former Rajasthan Congress President Dr. B.D. Kalla raised significant concerns regarding the new financial framework of rural employment schemes. He argued that placing a 40% financial burden on states would complicate job availability in economically weaker regions. Kalla urged the central government to cover the full cost of wages.

Kalla, a six-time MLA from Bikaner and former education minister, discussed various topics including rural employment, the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP), drought relief, paper leaks, the Rajasthani language, and the demand for a High Court bench in Bikaner.

Rural Employment: Increased Burden on Weaker States

Kalla pointed out that previously, the central government bore the entire wage cost for unskilled workers under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). With the new framework mandating a 40% state contribution, states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Bihar will face increased pressure. He argued that economically limited states, where job demand is high, may struggle to support their labor force.

He also questioned the naming of the scheme and opposed increasing state contributions in centrally sponsored programs. Kalla insisted that the central government should assume full responsibility for wage payments.

The newly developed “Guarantee for Employment and Livelihood Mission (Rural)” law guarantees 125 days of wage employment annually for eligible rural families. For states like Rajasthan, the financial ratio between the center and state is set at 60:40. Kalla expressed concerns about how this ratio could affect job availability.

Land Mafia Threatens Family: The Story Behind the Education Complex

Kalla recounted the story of how the education complex in Jaipur was constructed without government funds. He revealed that land mafia had targeted a school on Jawaharlal Nehru Road. Following a request from school president Mukti Lal Modi, he took over the school for government management.

Shortly after the takeover, Kalla received a threatening call from the land mafia, initially offering money to withdraw, then threatening harm to him and his family if he did not comply. He reported this to then Home Minister Pradyuman Singh.

Consequently, the land was divided into three parts: one for the school, another for the education complex, and the third was auctioned publicly to fund the complex’s construction. Kalla explained that the education department could not build its facility with government funds, necessitating this approach.

Increase Assembly Sessions, Recognize Rajasthani Language

Kalla advocated for holding at least 60 assembly sessions annually. He emphasized the need for training legislators, parliamentary language, and active participation in legislative work.

He reiterated the demand to include the Rajasthani language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution and mentioned a proposal passed by the assembly. He encouraged people to register Rajasthani as their mother tongue in the census.

Demand for Significant Central Financial Participation in ERCP

Regarding the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project, Kalla stated it should be declared a national project. He noted that during Congress rule, work and budget processes related to the project advanced.

Citing the Indira Gandhi Canal Project, he stressed the need for substantial central assistance to complete major water projects. He called for a 90% financial contribution from the center for the ERCP, asserting that previous governments’ efforts should also be acknowledged in the Yamuna water agreement.

Suggestion for All-Party Meeting on Drought Relief

Kalla expressed concern over drought and crop failure in some districts. He urged the Chief Minister to convene an all-party meeting with former Chief Ministers, opposition leaders, and other party leaders.

He recommended that the government conduct surveys on rainfall, crop damage, and drinking water conditions. Based on these assessments, he suggested initiating fodder depots, relief work, and water arrangements in affected areas.

Advocacy for Strict Laws to Protect Khejri Trees

On the protection of the state tree, Khejri, Kalla insisted that stringent regulations should be established to prevent its cutting, especially for solar energy projects. He proposed penalties of 10 to 30 years for those who cut down Khejri trees.

Kalla accused the government of allotting large tracts of land for solar projects, adversely affecting grazing lands. He emphasized that energy production should not compromise environmental protection.

Call for Changes in Examination Methods to Prevent Paper Leaks

On the issue of paper leaks, Kalla called for strict action and highlighted the need for moral education in schools.

Author Profile

Kuldeep Singh Chundawat: My name is Kuldeep Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.