The Union Cabinet has approved the renaming of India's flagship rural employment guarantee scheme, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), to Pujya Bapu Grameen Rozgar Yojana. Announced on December 12, 2025, the change aims to honor Mahatma Gandhi—referred to as "Pujya Bapu"—while enhancing benefits for rural households.

Alongside the renaming, the government has increased the guaranteed employment days from 100 to 125 per financial year for adult members willing to undertake unskilled manual work. Reports also indicate a revision of the minimum daily wage to ₹240 in some accounts, though details may vary by state notifications.

Originally enacted in 2005 as the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) and prefixed with Mahatma Gandhi's name in 2009, the scheme provides legal entitlement to wage employment, focusing on livelihood security and rural infrastructure development. The revamp includes a proposed allocation of around ₹1.51 lakh crore, with priority on water conservation and core infrastructure projects.

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The decision has elicited mixed reactions, with supporters viewing it as a strengthening of rural welfare aligned with Gandhian principles, while critics question the emphasis on renaming amid ongoing challenges like payment delays and funding shortfalls.

Implementation will require parliamentary approval through a new bill, the Pujya Bapu Grameen Rozgar Guarantee Bill. States have previously sought expansions beyond 100 days, particularly in drought-affected areas.

This overhaul marks a significant update to one of India's largest social security programs, potentially benefiting millions in rural areas as the renamed scheme rolls out in the coming fiscal year.

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