MGNREGA 2025 New Rules: The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), managed by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, is a key program to support rural families by providing work opportunities. A common question we hear is: “Does MGNREGA offer 100 days of work per person or per family?”
This guide, updated as of 31st July 2025, answers this clearly and explains how to apply, ensuring compliance with the rules. Our aim is to help rural households and employers understand this scheme simply and correctly.
What is MGNREGA?
MGNREGA guarantees at least 100 days of paid, unskilled manual work each financial year to rural households whose adult members are willing to work. It’s a demand-driven program, meaning work is provided when you ask for it, based on available funds. The program supports projects like building roads, canals, or ponds, helping rural communities while providing income.
Is It 100 Days Per Person or Per Family?
The 100 days of work is per household, not per person. A household, defined as a family living together and sharing meals, gets a total of 100 days to split among its adult members (18 years and above). For example, if a family has three adults listed on their Job Card, they can share the 100 days—say, one works 50 days, another 30, and another 20. Once the household reaches 100 days, no more work is provided in that financial year (April 1 to March 31).
In special cases, like drought-affected areas or for Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes, some states may allow up to 150 days per household. Check with your local Gram Panchayat for details.
Eligibility for MGNREGA Work
To participate, you need:
- To live in a rural area.
- A Job Card listing all adult household members willing to work.
- Willingness to do unskilled manual work, like construction or farming tasks.
How to Apply for MGNREGA Work
Here’s how rural households can get started:
- Visit your local Gram Panchayat or Block Development Office.
- Apply for a Job Card, listing all adult members willing to work.
- Submit documents like Aadhaar, address proof, and photos.
- Receive your Job Card within 15 days, free of cost.
- Request work from the Gram Panchayat, ideally with an application number for tracking.
- Work must be provided within 15 days of your request.
Important Dates for 2025–26
- Financial Year: April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026.
- Job Card Renewal: Every 5 years (check validity with Gram Panchayat).
- Wage Payment: Within 15 days of work completion, credited to your bank account.
