The Centre has initiated the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) — VB G RAM G, replacing the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). Effective July 1, the new law will offer 125 days of work to rural laborers, an increase from the previous 100 days.
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced the transition, emphasizing the shift towards a more integrated and productivity-focused rural development framework. During the transition period, MGNREGA operations will continue as usual until July 1.
States are granted a six-month window to prepare for the new scheme, with work under the ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047’ initiative set to begin for those unprepared by the deadline. The total financial allocation for the VB GRAM G program is expected to surpass Rs 1,51,000 crore, jointly funded by the Central and state governments.
Efforts are underway to expedite laborer payments within three days, with provisions for compensation in case of delays. Additionally, an unemployment allowance will be provided if employment opportunities are not met under the new scheme.
