Transition from MGNREGA to 'Vikshit Bharat – Ji Ram Ji' Scheme

To ensure a smooth transition from the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) to the new rural employment scheme, workers can use the job cards issued under the old scheme to demand work under the new 'Vikshit Bharat – Ji Ram Ji' scheme.

According to officials from the Ministry of Rural Development, MGNREGA job card holders will be able to access work under the new scheme once it is implemented. The 'Vikshit Bharat – Ji Ram Ji' scheme was passed during the Winter Session of Parliament and received immediate presidential approval. It will be implemented in the upcoming financial year after the central government issues rules and notifications. The exact timeline for the law to come into force has not been specified.

Once notified, states will have six months to join the scheme, design their plans, and notify them. The central government has also prepared a model template for states wishing to adopt the scheme. Officials emphasized that the goal is to ensure the transition is as smooth as possible, without affecting employment guarantees.