New Delhi, May 11: The Government of India has introduced the Viksit Bharat—Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025, which will come into effect from July 1, 2026, replacing MGNREGA.
The new law increases guaranteed rural wage employment to 125 days per household annually, up from 100 days earlier, aiming to strengthen income security and rural livelihoods.
Officials said the scheme places greater focus on creating durable rural assets such as roads, water conservation structures, and market infrastructure to boost long-term development.
The framework also introduces digital tools like AI-based monitoring and biometric attendance to improve transparency and efficiency in implementation.
Planning and execution will be decentralised through Gram Panchayat-led development plans, giving villages a stronger role in decision-making.
The Act retains the Centre–state funding structure and continues provisions for unemployment allowance if work is not provided within 15 days of application.
The new law replaces MGNREGA and is aligned with India’s long-term development vision for 2047.