India's New Rural Welfare Law: VB-G RAM G Replaces MGNREGA Amid Protests

India has enacted the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025 (VB-G RAM G), replacing the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). This new legislation increases guaranteed workdays to 125 annually but faces widespread protests over the removal of Mahatma Gandhi's name and changes to its fundamental structure.

• VB-G RAM G Act, 2025, officially replaces the MGNREGA, 2005.
• The new law increases guaranteed wage employment days from 100 to 125 annually.
• The scheme removes Mahatma Gandhi's name, triggering widespread opposition protests.
• It shifts to a new 60:40 Centre-State funding model, replacing the earlier full central funding for wages.
• The Act allows for a 60-day pause in work during peak agricultural seasons.
• The Indian economy has surpassed the $4 trillion mark in 2025.

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