MGNREGA Beneficiaries Assured No Job Loss Under VB-G RAM G Act: Shivraj Chouhan

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan provided a major assurance to MGNREGA employees on Tuesday, confirming that their employment and working conditions will remain fully protected under the newly enacted Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025 (VB-G RAM G).

Over two lakh MGNREGA workers from nearly 45,000 sites across states and Union Territories participated in a large-scale interactive video conference session where the minister delivered this assurance, clarifying provisions related to job continuity, honorarium payments, and administrative processes during the transition from the previous MGNREGA framework.

No Job Loss Under the G RAM G Act

Addressing the workforce, Chouhan emphasized that no current MGNREGA employee will lose their job due to the adoption of the new Act. Citing Section 37(3) of the VB-G RAM G Act, he stated that the services of all existing MGNREGA employees are explicitly protected.

The Act will continue to be implemented by the same workforce currently executing MGNREGA operations. Chouhan added, “There won’t be any disruption in employment or service delivery.” He highlighted that the success of rural development initiatives relies on the experience and grassroots connections of MGNREGA employees.

Officials also outlined key features of the VB-G RAM G Act, including an increase in guaranteed employment from 100 to 125 days per year. The Act aims to enhance inclusion, strengthen livelihood security, and align rural employment with the development of sustainable assets and livelihoods.

States Directed to Ensure Seamless Transition

The minister instructed state governments to take all necessary measures to maintain uninterrupted employment for MGNREGA workers during the transition. He stressed the importance of close coordination between the Center and states to uphold operational stability and statutory obligations regarding tenure and service conditions.

Increased Administrative Allocation to Ensure Payments

To address concerns over delays in honorarium payments, Chouhan noted that the new Act raises the administrative expenditure cap from 6% to 9%. This enhancement is expected to help states ensure timely payments while improving support systems, working conditions, and capacity-building for frontline staff.

Functionaries Respond Positively

MGNREGA officials praised the government’s direct approach, stating that it resolved long-standing issues and restored confidence in the implementation of the new law. Many pledged to support its successful rollout.

Chouhan reaffirmed that all MGNREGA employees will continue providing services under the new Act. He emphasized that the government is committed to implementing reforms in rural employment while fully protecting the rights of grassroots workers to help build a Viksit Bharat.