MGNREGA out, VB-G RAM G in: What changes for rural jobs, workers and states
The Indian government has replaced the long-standing MGNREGA rural employment scheme with the new Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (VB-G RAM G). The new program increases guaranteed work days from 100 to 125 and focuses on creating durable rural infrastructure and climate-resilient assets.
Why it matters
As a massive social safety net, the transition to VB-G RAM G significantly impacts rural labor markets and state-level development strategies in India.
MGNREGA, which served as rural India’s job safety net for two decades, was repealed on July 1, 2026. In its place is the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin), or VB-G RAM G, which raises the guaranteed employment from 100 to 125 days per rural household.The new scheme has set an approved labour budget of 95.03 crore person-days. So far, 62.20 crore person-days have been generated, or 65.51% of the approved target. Of these, 16.84% have gone to Scheduled Caste workers.Government data showed that 5.20 crore person-days had been generated by July 22, with more than 99.5% of workers who demanded employment having been offered work.
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