G RAM G replaces MGNREGA: 125 days, funding shift, opposition alleges conspiracy

• The government proposes replacing MGNREGA with the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Bill, 2025.
• The new G RAM G Bill increases guaranteed wage employment from 100 to 125 days per year for rural households.
• Unlike MGNREGA, VB-G RAM G will be a centrally sponsored scheme with cost-sharing between Centre and states, and a shift from demand-driven to state-wise normative allocation.
• The opposition criticizes the bill for weakening the original Act, renaming, and allegedly being a "conspiracy" to dismantle MGNREGA and erase Mahatma Gandhi's name.
• The government states G RAM G is a "major upgrade" to fix structural weaknesses, improve transparency, and address governance issues like fund misuse.

Why It Matters: This bill alters rural job guarantees and shifts financial burden to states.