Budget 2026: MGNREGA Replaced, New 'Mahatma Gandhi Gram Swaraj' Scheme Launched

• The NDA government has replaced MGNREGA with 'Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar Ajeevika Mission (Gramin)' (VB-G RAM G).
• Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the 'Mahatma Gandhi Gram Swaraj scheme' to focus on Khadi, handlooms, and handicrafts.
• The new scheme aims to empower rural artisans, weavers, and youth through global market linkage, branding, and skill development.
• VB-G RAM G has been allocated ₹95,692.31 crore and promises 125 days of work annually, replacing the two-decade-old MGNREGA.
• MGNREGA will continue until VB-G RAM G is fully implemented and pending works are completed.

Why It Matters: Budget 2026 introduces new schemes, replacing MGNREGA and boosting Khadi and rural livelihoods.