MGNREGA and the weight of change reignites debate over implementation

The proposal to rename the rural employment scheme, raise the number of guaranteed workdays and alter its cost-sharing structure has reignited debate over its implementation and intent

The Centre has decided to repeal the flagship Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and replace it with a new legislation called the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Aajeevika Mission (GRAMIN) or VB-G RaM G that proposes to increase the mandatory work days from 100 to 125, while altering the current funding structure that shifts a portion of the financial responsibility to the states.

 

The funding pattern between the Centre and state will change to 60:40 as against the existing maximum 90:10 under the new legislation.

 

The changes, which have been circulated in the form of