Centre notifies rollout of VB-G RAM G from July 1, MGNREGA to be repealed

The Centre on Monday notified the nationwide rollout of the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin), VB-G RAM G, from July 1, 2026, replacing the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, or MGNREGA, which will stand repealed from the same date. 

The date of the repeal comes amid reports that the Karnataka Government plans to file a plea in the Supreme Court seeking nod to implement MGNREGA for the 2026-27

The government said ongoing works under MGNREGA as of June 30 would continue under the new framework and existing e-KYC verified job cards would remain valid until new Gramin Rozgar Guarantee Cards are issued.

Wage payments will continue through direct benefit transfer into bank and post office accounts, with compensation provisions for payment delays.

For 2026–27, the Centre has allocated ₹956.92 billion for the programme, described as the highest-ever Budget Estimate allocation for a rural employment scheme. Including state contributions, the total programme outlay is expected to exceed ₹1.51 trillion.

The ministry added that draft rules covering allocation norms, wage payments, grievance redressal and transitional provisions are being finalised in consultation with states and Union Territories.

MGNREGA, enacted in 2005, guaranteed 100 days of wage employment to rural households and evolved into one of India’s largest social protection programmes, particularly during periods of economic distress and the Covid-19 pandemic.