Archive · 25 Jan 2026
Government Replaces MNREGA with New Rozgar Mission
The Indian government has replaced the old law called MNREGA, which guaranteed jobs to rural workers, with a new law called the Rozgar Mission.
The new law has several changes that might make things harder for workers and states.
First, the new law doesn't guarantee jobs like the old one did; it depends on how much money the central government gives.
Second, there will be a 60-day break every year when no new jobs will be started, and ongoing projects will stop.
This can make it harder for workers to find jobs.
Third, states will now have to pay 40% of the wages, which is a big financial burden.
Fourth, the central government might use this to control states more.
Finally, the new law was made very quickly without much discussion.
Some people think this is not a good change because it weakens workers' rights and makes states poorer.
The Government of India replaced MNREGA with the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025.
The new law promises up to 125 days of employment but depends on central government budget allocations.
There is a mandatory 60-day suspension of employment every year, which weakens workers' bargaining power.
States will now bear 40% of wage costs, imposing a significant financial burden.
The law was enacted quickly without meaningful consultation with states, experts, or workers' organizations.
- Who
- Government of India, rural workers, states
- What
- Replacement of MNREGA with the new Rozgar Mission
- When
- 2025
- Where
- India
- Why
- To restructure rural employment guarantees and shift financial responsibilities to states
- Act Replaced
- Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA)
- New Act
- Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025
- Employment Guarantee
- Up to 125 days of employment
- State Financial Burden
- 40% of wage costs
- Annual Suspension Period
- 60 days
- Impacted Groups
- Dalits, Muslims, and women
- Additional National Burden
- Rs 55,000 crore annually