Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Dec 18: India’s Parliament on Thursday approved the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, 2025, a landmark measure that will replace the long-standing Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and strengthen rural livelihood security.

The new bill, widely known as the VB-G RAM G Bill, 2025, was passed by the Lok Sabha after extensive debate and now moves to the Rajya Sabha for final clearance. It aims to increase statutory wage employment guarantees for rural households from 100 days to 125 days per year, expand implementation support structures, and modernise the rural jobs framework under the Ministry of Rural Development.

Government officials said the bill aligns with the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision, reflecting a renewed focus on bolstering rural economy and livelihood opportunities as India pushes toward inclusive growth over the next two decades. Critics and opposition leaders, however, raised concerns over funding patterns and capacity for timely delivery of guarantees.

The legislation marks a significant shift in rural employment policy and is expected to have wide implications for millions of rural workers across the country.