The government has introduced a new law called the Vikas Bharat Guarantee for Employment and Livelihood Mission (Rural) Act, 2025, also known as VBG-RAMJEE.
This Act replaces the earlier MNREGA scheme.
To spread awareness, special Gram Sabhas were held across all panchayats to explain how the new system works and how people can benefit from it.
Guaranteed Work and Income Security
Under VBG-RAMJEE, poor rural families are legally guaranteed 125 days of paid work every year.
This means employment is now a legal right, not just a scheme benefit.
If a family does not get work within the fixed time period, the state government must pay an unemployment allowance.
The payment will be made as per the rules set under the Act, ensuring families are not left without income.
How Work Will Be Planned and Implemented
All work under this Act will be planned by Gram Panchayats through verified local plans called Verified Gram Panchayat Plans (VGPPs).
These plans will also be linked with national planning systems like PM Gati Shakti to ensure better coordination and faster execution.
Gram Panchayats will register workers and issue Rural Employment Guarantee Cards.
They will also carry out at least 50 percent of the total work, based on local priorities.
At the block level, Panchayat Committees will prepare detailed action plans.
Strong Focus on Transparency and Monitoring
The new Act places strong emphasis on transparency.
It includes biometric verification, technology-based planning, and mobile and dashboard monitoring systems.
Progress details will also be shared publicly every week to prevent misuse and ensure accountability.
Priority Areas and Worker Benefits
Most of the work will focus on water security, basic infrastructure, livelihood support, and protecting villages from extreme weather conditions.
Water-related projects will receive special attention.
Workers are also allowed to take up to 60 days of leave in a financial year for agricultural activities, giving them flexibility to manage farm work alongside employment under the Act.
This new system aims to strengthen rural livelihoods while ensuring accountability, better planning, and income security for millions of families.
