Government of India has passed the #VB-GRAM G Bill (Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and #Ajeevika #Mission – Gramin), replacing the long-standing #MGNREGA framework. This marks a major shift in rural employment policy, expanding guaranteed work days, altering funding structures, and aligning with the #ViksitBharat2047 vision.
Background
Since 2005, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) has been the backbone of India’s rural employment policy, guaranteeing 100 days of wage employment per household. Over time, however, critics argued that while MGNREGA provided short-term relief, it did not sufficiently contribute to durable rural infrastructure or long-term livelihood security.
The VB-GRAM G Bill, 2025 (ViksitBharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission – Gramin) was introduced to address these gaps, modernize rural employment, and align with the government’s
Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
Key Features of the VB-GRAM G Bill
- Employment Guarantee Raised: From
100 to 125 days per rural household, strengthening income security. - Funding Model: A 60:40
Centre-State split, with states bearing a larger share of costs compared to MGNREGA’s earlier model. - Scope of Guarantee: Unlike
MGNREGA’s universal right to work, employment will now be provided in areas
notified by the central government, making it more discretionary. - Focus on Infrastructure: Employment
is linked to durable rural assets such as water systems, roads, and
climate-resilient projects. - Decentralized Planning:
Strengthened through Viksit Gram Panchayat Plans, integrated nationally via the Viksit Bharat Rural Infrastructure Stack. - Monitoring & Accountability:
Enhanced mechanisms for transparency and efficiency.
Special Provisions: Relaxations during natural
calamities and support for peak agricultural seasons.
Implications for Rural India
- Positive: More workdays, better infrastructure, climate resilience, and integration with long-term development.
- Challenges: Ensuring inclusivity, managing state finances, and maintaining the spirit of guaranteed employment.
