Government notifies transition to new rural jobs law
The Union government has notified that the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act of 2005, widely known as MGNREGA, will be repealed on July 1, 2026. The scheme, regarded as the world’s largest rural employment guarantee programme, will be replaced by the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission Gramin Bill, commonly referred to as VB G RAM G, which was passed in Parliament during the Winter Session last year amid strong criticism, protests, and concerns over federalism.
Under Sub Section 1 of Section 37 of the new law, the Union government was required to announce the date of repeal for MGNREGA. The notification issued by the Ministry of Rural Development confirms July 1, 2026 as the transition date.
According to Sub Section 5 of Section 37, all assets, liabilities, records, funds, and obligations under the repealed Act will be transferred to and vested in authorities under the new law and managed as prescribed by the Central Government.
Ongoing works under MGNREGA will continue under the new framework, with projects seamlessly migrated to ensure completion and continuity of public assets and community benefits, according to a Ministry of Rural Development update.
