Government to Rename MGNREGA, Hikes Job Guarantee from 100 to 125 Days

The Union Cabinet on 12th December, 2025 has approved a major update to India’s largest rural employment scheme. The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) will now be renamed as Poojya Bapu Grameen Rozgar Yojana. Along with that the number of guaranteed workdays will be increased from 100 to 125 days. This move aims to strengthen rural livelihoods and improve income stability for millions of households that depend on the programme.

Key Cabinet Decisions

• MGNREGS will be renamed and called as “Pujya Bapu Grameen Rozgar Yojana”
• (Earlier renamed from NREGS → MGNREGS in 2009)
• Guaranteed employment will increase from 100 to 125 days
• Amendment approved to the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA), 2005
• Formal notification awaited

Background: NREGA To MGNREGA

• Enacted: August 25, 2005
• Legal guarantee for 100 days of employment for adult rural households.

Aim

• Enhance rural purchasing power
• Provide livelihood security
• Reduce rural distress & poverty
• Create durable community assets

2009: Renamed To “Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act / Scheme”.

Significance of the Update

The changes carry both economic and social significance,

• Stronger income support for rural households
• More predictable employment, especially during lean agricultural seasons
• Higher rural spending power, boosting local economies
• Improved safety net for low-income families
• Reinforcement of the scheme’s original purpose—reducing poverty and narrowing income inequality

Key Static Information

• Original Act: NREGA, 2005
• Renamed: MGNREGA in 2009, now becoming Poojya Bapu Grameen Rozgar Yojana
• Guaranteed workdays: Earlier 100, now 125 days
• Average actual workdays (2024–25): 50.24 days
• Governing Ministry: Ministry of Rural Development (MRD)