Big changes coming: MGNREGA to be replaced by new rural jobs bill

India Dec 17, 2025

The government is set to scrap MGNREGA and roll out the VB-G RAM G Bill 2025, which will cut central funding for rural jobs by about a third.
While households could get up to 125 days of work (up from 100), the money from the Centre drops sharply, and states will have to pick up more of the tab.

Why should you care?

This shift means less guaranteed support for rural workers, especially in states already struggling with finances.
The new bill moves away from a rights-based approach—so getting work won't be automatic anymore.
With fewer people using MGNREGA in recent years and more panchayats going inactive, many fear this change could make it even tougher for vulnerable families to find steady work when they need it most.