Central Government issued notification for implementation of 'Viksit Bharat - Guarantee for Employment and Livelihood Mission (Rural)' (VB-GRAM G Act) on May 11, 2026
Act comes into force across entire country starting July 1, 2026
Labourers in rural areas will now be provided with 125 days of work per year (increased from previous 100 days)
During interim period, all provisions of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) remain in force
Pending works will be completed under MGNREGA framework prior to July 1
Process of formulating rules for new Act is underway following extensive consultations with states
Most states will have maximum of six months to complete necessary preparations
If state fails to complete preparations by July 1, funding pattern will be governed by 'Viksit Bharat G-Ram G' scheme
Government of India has allocated over ₹95,000 crore in budget to generate employment through this scheme
States have also made provisions in their respective budgets for implementation
Combined allocation from Centre and states will exceed ₹1,51,000 crore
Payments to labourers will be made via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) into bank or post office accounts
Aim to process payments within three days, with maximum completion time of 15 days
If funds not received within 15 days, labourers entitled to delayed payment compensation
Additional amount must be paid in cases of delayed disbursement
If employment not provided upon request, unemployment allowance must be paid
Infrastructure development works in villages backed by annual allocation exceeding ₹151,000 crore
Scheme facilitates water conservation, rural infrastructure development, roads, bridges, culverts, schools, and Anganwadi buildings
Supports construction of working sheds for women members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
Includes construction of retaining walls in riverside villages or waterlogged areas to mitigate natural disaster impact
Administrative expenditure allocation increased from 6 percent to 9 percent to ensure adequate and timely wage payments
