Divyanshu G 
(C): Unsplash
The rural employment landscape in India has undergone a massive shift with the introduction of the VB-G RAM G Scheme (Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission). By 2026, the traditional MGNREGA model is being shifted, and many workers are confused by why the old IDs are considered invalid. This is the way to go about the new system.
Understanding the VB-G RAM G Scheme Transition
The new Viksit Bharat Act is an updated edition of the 2005 MGNREGA Act by the government to meet the 2047 vision. While verified cards remain active, the system now mandates strict Digital Job Card Verification. When your old card is neither digitized nor has e-KYC, the card is practically useless in getting the 125 days of guaranteed employment.
How to Register for the New Card
In order to be applied or reactivated, you have to visit your local Gram Panchayat.
Steps for Aadhaar Payment Bridge Seeding
The reason mostly cited when ID rejection happens is a breakdown in payment linkage.
- Turn in the KYC: Turn in Aadhaar card and bank passbook to the Panchayat officer.
- Biometric Auth: Finish the biometric authentication to match your data with National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).
- Online Status: Once seeded, your status will be updated on the official portal and you will be eligible to take the benefits of Rural Employment Guarantee under the new Act.
Ministry of Rural Development Official X (Twitter) Account
FAQs
1. Is my old MGNREGA Job Card permanently invalid?
Not necessarily. Upon being “verified” (Aadhaar-seeded and e-KYC compliant), it becomes the new VB-G RAM G system. Otherwise, you have to revise it at once.
2. What is the main benefit of the new Viksit Bharat scheme?
The new Act also raises the guaranteed wage employment to 125 days per year against 100 days per year.
3. Can I apply for a Job Card online?
Although you can check status on the Internet, the application and verifying the biometric account generally have to be made physically at Gram Panchayat or a special camp.
4. Why did my payment stop?
Payments now strictly use the Aadhaar Payment Bridge System (ABPS). Payments are blocked in case your bank account is not mapped to your Aadhaar number at the NPCI level.
