Centre introduces 'Viksit Bharat' bill to replace MGNREGA

India Dec 17, 2025

The government just brought in the Viksit Bharat Bill, aiming to replace MGNREGA and offer 125 days of paid work each year for rural families who are up for unskilled jobs.
The bill was introduced in Parliament on December 16, 2025.

Why does it matter?

This bill gives the scheme a new structure—now the center and states will share funding (60:40, or 90:10 for northeastern and Himalayan states).
Gram panchayats get more responsibility, planning projects focused on water, infrastructure, and climate resilience.
There's also a big push for accountability with digital payments and biometric attendance to cut down on corruption and make sure help reaches those who need it most.