Evening news wrap: Centre to replace MGNREGA with VB-G RAM G; PM lands in Jordan, begins 3-nation tour and more

The Centre is planning to replace MGNREGA with the proposed VB–G RAM G Bill, 2025, which aims to provide 125 days of employment while placing greater emphasis on rural development, climate resilience and digital infrastructure. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Jordan as part of a three-nation tour, with subsequent visits planned to Ethiopia to strengthen bilateral ties and to Oman to boost strategic and economic partnerships. In Australia, police said a father-son duo, Sajid and Naveed Akram, were the shooters behind the Bondi Beach attack that killed at least 15 people. Sports fans were left disappointed after Lionel Messi’s visit to Salt Lake Stadium was cut short due to safety concerns triggered by a VIP attempting to get his autograph. In politics, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor shared a post comparing himself with Rahul Gandhi, calling the comparison fair, even as the thread criticised Gandhi’s rural-centric politics and highlighted Tharoor’s contrasting political approach.

Here are your top five stories of the day:

MGNREGA to be replaced with VB–G Ram G: What it is and how it’s different - key FAQs answered
The Centre plans to roll out the VB–G RAM G Bill, 2025, which will replace MGNREGA and assure 125 days of paid employment, with an emphasis on water conservation, rural infrastructure development and climate resilience. The proposed legislation seeks to strengthen the rural economy by offering more stable work opportunities, higher incomes and greater digital integration for farmers and labourers, while also addressing long-standing shortcomings in the existing scheme. Read full story



PM Modi in Jordan: To hold talks with King Abdullah II; what's at stake
Prime Minister Narendra Modi began a three-country tour with a visit to Jordan, coinciding with 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations. He will then travel to Ethiopia, where he is set to strengthen bilateral ties and address Parliament. The visit will conclude in Oman, focusing on enhancing the strategic partnership and expanding economic cooperation, alongside interactions with the Indian diaspora. Read full story


Pak national, legal firearms, unemployed: What we know about Bondi Beach shooters
A shooting at a Hanukkah gathering near Bondi Beach left at least 15 people dead after a father and son opened fire from a footbridge, triggering panic at the event. The assailants were identified as Sajid and Naveed Akram. Police shot dead Sajid during the operation, while Naveed was taken into custody. Authorities have launched an investigation and are examining possible links to extremist groups. Read full story


What led to Rs 2.5cr Messi mess in Kolkata: Neta clans' selfie rush, VIP culture, outsider entry
The electrifying atmosphere at Salt Lake Stadium turned sour during Messi's visit, when eager fans found themselves unable to catch a glimpse of their idol. A misguided attempt by a VIP to secure an autograph sparked concerns for safety, forcing an early departure for the soccer legend. Read full story


'Thoughtful analysis': Tharoor shares post comparing his ideas with Rahul; what it said
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor reposted a thread comparing his political approach to Rahul Gandhi's, calling the analysis "fair" and "reflective of a certain perception of the current reality." The thread criticized Gandhi's rural-centric policies as "devastating" and highlighted Tharoor's alignment with his background and audience. Read full story

Select The Times of India as your preferred source on Google Search