Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Gold Monetisation Scheme (GMS)
Why in the News?
The Centre has decided to discontinue the Gold Monetization Scheme (GMS) starting from March 26, 2025, considering evolving market conditions.
The short-term deposits (1-3 years) will continue at the discretion of individual banks based on commercial viability, highlighting a shift towards flexible, shorter-term options.
About Gold Monetization Scheme (GMS) and its Features
- The GMS was launched in November 2015 as an enhanced version of the Gold Deposit Scheme (GDS) and Gold Metal Loan (GML) Scheme.
- The main goal was to mobilize idle gold from households and institutions into the formal economy, thereby reducing the country’s reliance on gold imports and improving the current account deficit (CAD).
- Objectives: Aimed at mobilizing gold, reducing gold imports, and utilizing gold to generate interest as a financial asset, thereby strengthening the economy.
- The GMS included three deposit options:
- Short-Term Gold Deposit (STGD): 1-3 years
- Medium-Term Gold Deposit (MTGD): 5-7 years
- Long-Term Gold Deposit (LTGD): 12-15 years
- Interest and Redemption:
- Short-Term Deposits: Interest rates determined by individual banks; redemption could be in cash or gold.
- Medium- and Long-Term Deposits: Fixed interest rates at 2.25% (medium-term) and 2.5% (long-term), with cash redemption only.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Open to individuals, institutions, and government entities.
- Gold tendering accepted only at designated Collection and Purity Testing Centres (CPTC) or through GMS Mobilisation Agents.
- Deposits were accepted only if the value exceeded ₹1 lakh.
Reasons for Discontinuation
- The Finance Ministry discontinued the Medium-Term and Long-Term Deposits due to changes in the gold market.
- Gold prices surged by 41.5% from ₹63,920 per 10 grams in January 2024 to ₹90,450 per 10 grams by March 2025.
- This rise in gold value reduced the attractiveness of schemes like GMS for both depositors and the government.
- With the closure of the Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme, the government aims to shift towards more market-oriented solutions for gold-related financial products.
| [UPSC 2016] What is/are the purpose/purposes of the Government’s ‘Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme’ and ‘Gold Monetization Scheme’?
1. To bring the idle gold lying with Indian households into the economy.
2. To promote FDI in the gold and jewellery sector
3. To reduce India’s dependence on gold imports
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: National Program for Dairy Development (NPDD)
Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet has approved the Revised National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD), enhancing its scope and funding to modernize and expand the dairy sector across India.
About the National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD)
- It is implemented by the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD).
- The scheme has been operational since February 2014, initially targeting the development of dairy cooperatives and expanding infrastructure to support dairy activities.
- In July 2021, the scheme was restructured to align with the goals of the 15th Finance Commission cycle (2021-2026), to run from 2021 to 2026 with an enhanced budget.
- It focuses on providing technical and financial assistance to improve the dairy infrastructure in India, including enhancing milk procurement, processing, and marketing capabilities.
- It also aims to provide training facilities for dairy farmers, improving their skills and fostering rural development.
Revised Components of NPDD Scheme:
The Revised NPDD, a Central Sector Scheme, is designed with two primary components that focus on dairy infrastructure development and cooperative strengthening:
Component A: Dairy Infrastructure Improvement
- This component focuses on improving essential dairy infrastructure, such as the installation of milk chilling plants, advanced milk testing laboratories, and certification systems for quality assurance.
- Special attention is given to the North Eastern Region (NER), hilly areas, and Union Territories (UTs), where support is provided for the formation of new dairy cooperative societies and the strengthening of milk procurement and processing systems.
- Grant support will be provided for the formation of 2 Milk Producer Companies, ensuring a more efficient procurement system.
Component B: Dairying through Cooperatives (DTC)
- This component focuses on fostering dairy development through cooperative models in partnership with the Government of Japan and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
- It aims to sustainably develop dairy cooperatives, improve production, processing, and marketing infrastructure in 9 key states: Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Telangana, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
- This component seeks to introduce international best practices in cooperative management and dairy technologies.
PYQ:
[UPSC 2013] Which of the following grants direct credit assistance to the households?
1. Regional Rural Banks
2. National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development
3. Land Development Banks
Select the correct answer using codes given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM-YUVA Scheme
Why in the News?
The Ministry of Education, Department of Higher Education, launched the PM-YUVA 3.0 (Prime Minister’s Scheme for Mentoring Young Authors) on 11th March 2025.
About the PM-YUVA Scheme
- PM-YUVA 3.0 was launched on 11th March 2025, building upon the success of the first two editions, which focused on themes like national movement and democracy.
- It is an initiative by the Ministry of Education, Department of Higher Education, aimed at mentoring young authors below the age of 30.
- The scheme’s objectives include fostering a new generation of writers who can explore topics such as:
- Contribution of the Indian Diaspora in Nation Building
- Indian Knowledge System
- Makers of Modern India (1950-2025)
- Background:
- PM-YUVA 1.0 (2021): Focused on India’s National Movement & unsung heroes.
- PM-YUVA 2.0 (2022): Focused on Democracy and Constitutional Values.
- The scheme was designed to promote reading, writing, and book culture in India while showcasing Indian literature and heritage globally.
- The National Book Trust (NBT), India, is the implementing agency responsible for executing the scheme.
- The scheme aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aiming to empower youth, develop creative leaders, and encourage capacity building in India’s younger generation.
Important Features of PM-YUVA 3.0
- An All-India Contest will be held through MyGov from 11 March 2025 to 10 April 2025.
- 50 authors will be selected across three themes.
- Evaluation of proposals will be completed by April 2025, and the final list of selected authors will be announced between May-June 2025.
- Each selected author will receive a ₹50,000 monthly scholarship for six months, totaling ₹3 lakh per author.
- Authors will also receive a 10% royalty on successful publications of their books.
- Books created under the scheme will be published by the National Book Trust and translated into other Indian languages, promoting literary exchange and supporting the vision of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’.
- Applicants who have qualified for PM-YUVA 1.0 and PM-YUVA 2.0 are not eligible for this edition.
PYQ:
[2018] With reference to Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, consider the following statements :
1. It is the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Labour and Employment.
2. It, among other things, will also impart training in soft skills, entrepreneurship, financial and digital literacy.
3. It aims to align the competencies of the unregulated workforce of the country to the National Skill Qualification Framework.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme
Why in the News?
According to the RBI, bad loans in the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme segment increased by 42% over the last four years, reaching ₹97,543 crore by December 2024, up from ₹68,547 crore in March 2021.
About the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme
- The KCC Scheme is a government-backed credit initiative designed to provide timely and adequate credit to farmers for agricultural and allied activities.
- Launched in 1998 on the recommendation of NABARD (R.V. Gupta Committee), the scheme aims to ensure easy access to institutional credit, reducing farmers’ dependency on moneylenders and informal credit sources.
-
- Provides short-term credit for crop cultivation and post-harvest needs.
- Supports working capital requirements for farm mechanization, dairy, poultry, fisheries, and other allied agricultural activities.
- Helps meet household consumption needs of farmers.
- Allows credit access for investment in agriculture-related businesses.
- Credit and Repayment System:
- Farmers can avail collateral-free loans up to ₹2 lakh.
- Interest rates start as low as 4% per annum (with government interest subvention for timely repayment).
- The loan limit was increased from ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh in Budget 2025-26.
- Revolving credit system allows farmers to withdraw and repay as needed within the sanctioned limit.
- Repayment schedules are linked to the crop harvesting cycle, ensuring no undue financial burden.
- Implementation: Commercial Banks; Regional Rural Banks (RRBs); Small Finance Banks; Cooperative Banks.
-
- Comes with insurance coverage under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) to protect against crop loss.
- Covers fisheries and animal husbandry farmers (since 2018-19).
Successes and Limitations of the KCC Scheme:
| Successes |
Failures |
- Increased Financial Inclusion: 7.3 crore active accounts, reducing reliance on moneylenders.
- Higher Agricultural Productivity: Easy access to inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and machinery.
- Increased Support: Interest subvention makes loans affordable; loan limit raised from ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh (Budget 2025-26).
- Promoted Rural Development: Covers women farmers, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and non-farm activities.
|
- Rising NPAs: Discussed above.
- Loan Misuse: Funds diverted for non-agricultural expenses, increasing defaults.
- Low Financial Literacy: Many farmers unaware of repayment terms, leading to debt traps.
- High Credit Dependency: Continuous borrowing without income growth raises financial risks.
|
PYQ:
[2020] Under the Kisan Credit Card scheme, short-term credit support is given to farmers for which of the following purposes?
- Working capital for maintenance of farm assets
- Purchase of combine harvesters, tractors and mini trucks
- Consumption requirements of farm households
- Post-harvest expenses
- Construction of family house and setting up of village cold storage facility
Select the correct answer:
(a) 1, 2 and 5 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2, 4 and 5 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) Scheme
Why in the News?
Punjab has fully utilized ₹4,713 crore allocated under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), making it the top-ranked state in India for implementing this scheme.
As a result, Punjab has been granted an additional ₹2,337 crore to further expand its agricultural infrastructure projects.
What is the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) Scheme?
- The AIF is a ₹1 lakh crore financing facility launched by the Government of India in July 2020 to support post-harvest agricultural infrastructure and community farming assets.
- AIF provides medium- to long-term debt financing at subsidized interest rates, along with credit guarantee support, to eligible beneficiaries.
Key Features of the AIF Scheme:
- Total Corpus & Disbursement: ₹1 lakh crore, disbursed over 10 years (2020-21 to 2029-30).
- Interest Subvention & Loan Benefits:
- 3% interest subvention on loans up to ₹2 crore.
- Credit guarantee support through CGTMSE and NABSanrakshan.
- Maximum interest rate capped at 9% for a 7-year tenure.
- Eligible Projects:
- Post-harvest infrastructure: Warehouses, cold storage, silos, drying yards, sorting, and packaging units.
- Processing & Value Addition: Food processing plants, oil mills, flour mills, kinnow and cashew processing.
- Technology-driven solutions: Drone projects, hi-tech farm equipment rental centers.
- Renewable energy: Solar-powered irrigation and cold storage units.
- Integration with Other Government Schemes: Can be combined with State & Central subsidies for maximum benefit.
- Implementation & Monitoring:
- Managed via online MIS platform for real-time tracking.
- National, State & District-level monitoring committees ensure effective execution.
Eligible Beneficiaries Under AIF:
- Individual Farmers: Seeking on-farm storage or processing units.
- Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs): For community-based infrastructure.
- Self-Help Groups (SHGs) & Joint Liability Groups (JLGs): Engaged in agricultural activities.
- Cooperative Societies & Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS): For collective farming and value addition.
- Startups & Agri-Tech Companies: Developing post-harvest management solutions.
- State Agencies & PPP Projects: Government-backed rural infrastructure projects.
- Entrepreneurs & Agripreneurs: Working in food processing and value addition.
PYQ:
[2017] Which of the following is/are the advantage/advantages of implementing the ‘National Agriculture Market’ scheme?
1. It is a pan-India electronic trading portal for agricultural commodities.
2. It provides the farmers access to nationwide market, with prices commensurate with the quality of their produce.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Livestock Health and Disease Control Scheme (LHDCS)
Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet has approved the revision of the Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP).
The revised scheme, with a total outlay of ₹3,880 crore for 2024-25 and 2025-26, includes a new component called “Pashu Aushadhi” to improve the availability of generic veterinary medicines.
What is LHDC Scheme?
| About |
- Government of India initiative launched in 2022.
- Aims to improve animal health, control livestock diseases, and enhance veterinary services.
- Revised with ₹3,880 crore outlay for 2024-25 and 2025-26.
- Includes “Pashu Aushadhi” for affordable veterinary medicines.
|
| Features of LHDC |
- Disease Control & Vaccination: Targets FMD, Brucellosis, PPR, CSF, Lumpy Skin Disease. Mass vaccination and eradication.
- Veterinary Healthcare: Expansion of veterinary hospitals and Mobile Veterinary Units (MVUs).
- Disease Surveillance: Strengthened disease reporting and monitoring systems.
- “Pashu Aushadhi”: Affordable, high-quality veterinary medicines with ₹75 crore allocation.
Sub-Components:
- Critical Animal Disease Control Programme (CADCP): Focuses on eradicating high-risk livestock diseases.
- Establishment & Strengthening of Veterinary Hospitals and Dispensaries (ESVHD-MVU): Expands mobile veterinary units (MVUs) for better access to veterinary care.
- Assistance to States for Control of Animal Diseases (ASCAD): Provides financial support to states for disease prevention and control.
- Economic Benefits: Prevents livestock mortality and improves milk, meat, and wool production.
|
| Implementation & Funding |
Strategy: Coordinated efforts by Central and State Governments; monitoring and assessment mechanisms.
Funding: ₹3,880 crore for 2024-25 and 2025-26:
- 100% central funding for CADCP and non-recurring ESVHD components.
- 60:40 share for other components and ASCAD.
- 90:10 funding for North Eastern and Himalayan States.
- 100% Central funding for Union Territories.
|
PYQ:
[2015] Livestock rearing has a big potential for providing non-farm employment and income in rural areas. Discuss suggesting suitable measures to promote this sector in India.
[2012] Which of the following is the chief characteristic of ‘mixed farming’?
(a) Cultivation of both cash crops and food crops
(b) Cultivation of two or more crops in the same field
(c) Rearing of animals and cultivation of crops together
(d) None of the above |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Suposhit Maa Abhiyan
Why in the News?
Lok Sabha Speaker launched the third phase of the Suposhit Maa Abhiyan, a campaign aimed at empowering mothers and improving the health of pregnant women and newborns.
What is Suposhit Maa Abhiyan?
- The Suposhit Maa Abhiyan is a maternal and child health initiative launched by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in March 2020 in Kota, Rajasthan.
- It aims to eliminate malnutrition among pregnant women and newborns by providing nutritional support, medical care, and health awareness.
- Social workers and volunteers identify underprivileged pregnant women. Registration through community outreach programs and online platforms.
-
- Nutritional Support: Monthly 17 kg nutrition kits for pregnant women.
- Medical Assistance: Regular health check-ups, blood tests, and medication support.
- Health Cards: Track maternal health, nutrition levels, and medical history.
- Adoption Model: One pregnant woman per family can be adopted for support.
- Awareness Drives: Sessions on maternal care, infant nutrition, and postpartum health.
- Mortality Rate Reduction: Increased normal deliveries, healthier newborns, and improved maternal health.
Phases of the Campaign:
-
- 1,000 pregnant women received balanced nutrition kits.
- Medical check-ups, medicines, and delivery support provided.
-
- 3,000 women received nutrition kits for 9 months.
- Expanded health monitoring and medical consultation services.
-
- 1,800+ pregnant women identified for continuous health monitoring.
- Monthly nutrition kits and health card tracking introduced.
PYQ:
[2020] In order to enhance the prospects of social development, sound and adequate health care policies are needed particularly in the fields of geriatric and maternal health care. Discuss.
[2017] Which of the following are the objectives of the ‘National Nutrition Mission’?
- To create awareness relating to malnutrition among pregnant women and lactating mothers.
- To reduce the incidence of anaemia among young children, adolescent girls and women.
- To promote the consumption of millets, coarse cereals and unpolished rice.
- To promote the consumption of poultry eggs.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 4 only
(d) 3 and 4 only |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Soil Health Cards Scheme
Why in the News?
It has been 10 years since the Soil Health Card Scheme was introduced by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 19th February 2015 at Suratgarh, Rajasthan.
What is the Soil Health Card Scheme?
- The SHC Scheme was launched to analyze soil quality and provide personalized recommendations to farmers for nutrient management and soil fertility improvement.
- The scheme is implemented by the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare.
- It has been integrated into Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) since 2022-23 under the Soil Health & Fertility component.
Key Features of the Soil Health Card Scheme:
- SHC evaluates 12 parameters, including:
- Macronutrients: N, P, K, S.
- Micronutrients: Zn, Fe, Cu, Mn, B.
- Physical & Chemical Properties: pH, EC, OC.
- Samples collected twice a year (post-Rabi and Kharif).
- Grid-based sampling: 2.5 ha in irrigated areas, 10 ha in rain-fed areas.
- SHC Portal & Mobile App enable online tracking, GPS-tagged samples, and QR-coded test results.
- Village-Level Soil Testing Labs (VLSTLs): 665 VLSTLs established across 17 states for local soil testing.
- School Soil Health Programme: Implemented in 1020 schools, with 1000 soil testing labs and 125,972 students enrolled.
Successes and Limitations of SHC:
Success:
- Crop Yields & Productivity Increased (8-10%) through optimized fertilizer application.
- Farmers saved up to ₹5,000 per hectare by using balanced fertilizers.
- 665 Village-Level Soil Testing Labs (VLSTLs) established, improving soil testing accessibility.
- Technological integration (SHC Portal & Mobile App) ensures real-time monitoring.
- Encouraged sustainable farming practices, reducing soil degradation and nutrient depletion.
Limitations and Challenges:
- Many farmers are unaware of SHC benefits and continue traditional farming methods.
- Reports often reach farmers too late for implementation.
- Limited soil testing labs and trained staff in remote areas.
- Farmers need training to interpret SHC reports and apply recommendations.
|
PYQ:
[2017] Consider the following statements:
The nation-wide ‘Soil Health Card Scheme’ aims at-
1. expanding the cultivable area under irrigation.
2. enabling the banks to assess the quantum of loans to be granted to farmers on the basis of soil quality.
3. checking the overuse of fertilizers in farmlands.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 arid 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Project NAKSHA
Why in the News?
Union Minister of Rural Development has inaugurated the National Geospatial Knowledge-based Land Survey of Urban Habitations (NAKSHA) in 152 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across 26 States and 3 Union Territories (UTs).
What is Project NAKSHA?
- It is an AI-driven urban land survey and digitization initiative launched by the Department of Land Resources under the Ministry of Rural Development.
- Announced in the Union Budget 2024-25, the project aims to modernize urban land records through geospatial mapping, drone technology, and AI.
- Launched in February 2025, the initiative will digitize and update land records in 152 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across 26 States and 3 Union Territories (UTs) in its pilot phase.
- Survey of India is the technical partner, conducting aerial mapping and high-resolution imaging to create accurate, tamper-proof property records.
- The Madhya Pradesh State Electronic Development Corporation (MPSEDC) is developing an end-to-end web-GIS platform.
- National Informatics Centre Services Inc. (NICSI) will provide storage and data security.
- The Survey of India will provide orthorectified imagery for accurate mapping.
- Project NAKSHA builds on:
- Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP) for digitizing rural land records.
- SVAMITVA Scheme, using drone technology to map village properties.
-
- Pilot phase funding: ₹194 crore, fully financed by the Government of India.
- Overall Phase 1 budget: ₹5,000 crore for nationwide expansion.
Aims and Objectives of Project NAKSHA:
- Standardizing urban property ownership details to eliminate land disputes.
- Ensuring fraud-proof, legally valid land documentation.
- Drone surveys and satellite imagery for precision mapping.
- Detecting encroachments, illegal constructions, and land use changes.
- Providing spatial data for urban expansion and infrastructure projects.
- Digital land records enable seamless property transactions and ownership transfers.
Features and Provisions:
- 150+ cities covered in the first year, with full urban coverage in five years.
- AI-enabled classification to identify disputed, encroached, or illegal land parcels.
- Web-GIS Platform for Land Record Management to be developed by MPSEDC, ensuring real-time data access and updates.
- States and UTs to conduct field surveys and ground verification.
PYQ:
[2019] With reference to land reforms in independent India, which one of the following statements is correct?
(a) The ceiling laws were aimed at family holdings and not individual holdings.
(b) The major aim of land reforms was providing agricultural land to all the landless.
(c) It resulted in cultivation of cash crops as a predominant form of cultivation.
(d) Land reforms permitted no exemptions to the ceiling limits. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDKY)
Why in the News?
Finance Minister while presenting the Union Budget announced the launch of the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDKY).
About the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDKY):
- The PMDKY aims to enhance agricultural productivity, crop diversification, storage infrastructure, irrigation, and credit access.
-
- Identifies 100 districts with low productivity, moderate cropping intensity, and below-average credit access.
- Develops panchayat/block-level storage and expands irrigation coverage.
- Ensures affordable short-term & long-term loans for farmers.
- Uses data-driven governance & district rankings.
-
- Implementation: Jointly executed by Central & State Governments.
- Funding: Drawn from existing schemes under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying.
- Evaluation: Assessed based on yield improvements, credit flow, and irrigation expansion.
PYQ:
[2015] ‘Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana’ has been launched for:
(a) providing housing loan to poor people at cheaper interest rates
(b) promoting women’s Self-Help Groups in backward areas
(c) promoting financial inclusion in the country
(d) providing financial help to the marginalized communities |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: SASCI Scheme
Why in the News?
The Government of India has sanctioned 40 projects across 23 states, allocating ₹3295.76 crore under the ‘Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) Scheme for the Financial Year 2024-25.
What is the SASCI Scheme?
- The SASCI Scheme was launched in FY 2020-21 to support state capital expenditure and drive economic growth.
- Initially introduced as a post-COVID recovery measure, it has been expanded in FY 2023-24 with an allocation of ₹1.3 lakh crore.
- The scheme funds infrastructure projects, urban reforms, tourism development, and sustainability initiatives.
- Structural Mandate: The scheme has eight parts based on states’ share of central taxes:
- General Capital Assistance (₹1 lakh crore): Allocated based on states’ share of central taxes.
- Vehicle Scrappage & Testing Facilities: Incentives for phasing out old vehicles & setting up automated testing centers.
- Urban Planning Reforms: Encourages modern land-use planning & governance improvements.
- Urban Finance Reforms: Strengthens municipal revenue models & financial sustainability.
- Housing for Police Personnel: Funds residential units for police & their families.
- Cultural & Economic Development (Unity Malls): Promotes One District One Product (ODOP), Make in India & local entrepreneurship.
- Digital Libraries at Panchayat/Ward Levels: ₹5,000 crore for library infrastructure & digital learning access.
- Development of Iconic Tourist Centres: Global-scale branding & infrastructure for major tourism hubs.
Features & Significance:
- Boosts capital investment to stimulate demand and job creation.
- Encourages reforms in urban governance, infrastructure, and sustainability.
- Promotes responsible tourism and global branding of iconic destinations.
- Strengthens local industries through One District One Product (ODOP).
- Improves public services like policing, water supply, and rural roads.
PYQ:
[2016] Which of the following is/are included in the capital budget of the Government of India?
- Expenditure on acquisition of assets like roads, buildings, machinery, etc.
- Loans received from foreign governments
- Loans and advances granted to the States and Union Territories
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Swavalambini Initiative
Why in the News?
The NITI Aayog has launched Swavalambini Women Entrepreneurship Programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).
About Swavalambini Women Entrepreneurship Programme:
- It is a program to foster entrepreneurial skills among female students in higher education institutions across Assam, Meghalaya, and Mizoram.
- Aims and Objectives:
- Empowerment: To inspire and equip young women to become job creators and leaders, thereby contributing to economic development in Northeast India.
- Skill Development: To provide structured training that covers essential business aspects, enhancing participants’ entrepreneurial competencies.
- Provisions and Features:
- Entrepreneurship Awareness Programme (EAP): A two-day session introducing 600 female students to the fundamentals of entrepreneurship.
- Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP): An intensive 40-hour training for 300 selected participants, covering topics such as financial planning, market access, legal compliance, and business networking.
- Mentorship: Six months of dedicated mentorship to assist participants in transforming their business ideas into viable enterprises.
- Faculty Development Programme (FDP): A 5-day training for faculty members to enhance their ability to mentor aspiring entrepreneurs effectively.
PYQ:
[2010] Two of the schemes launched by the Government of India for Women’s development are Swadhar and Swayam Siddha. As regards the difference between them, consider the following statements:
- Swayam Siddha is meant for those in difficult circumstances such as women survivors of natural disasters or terrorism, women prisoners released from jails, mentally challenged women etc., whereas Swadhar is meant for holistic empowerment of women through Self Help Groups.
- Swayam Siddha is implemented through Local Self-Government bodies or reputed Voluntary Organizations whereas Swadhar is implemented through the ICDS units set up in the states.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: GREAT Scheme
Why in the News?
As of February 4, 2025, 4 startups have been approved under the ‘Grant for Research & Entrepreneurship across Aspiring Innovators in Technical Textiles (GREAT)’ Scheme.
About GREAT Scheme:
- The GREAT Scheme is a government initiative under the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM).
- Launched by the Ministry of Textiles, it provides financial support to startups working in technical textiles.
- The scheme focuses on Medical Textiles, Industrial Textiles, and Protective Textiles, fostering innovation, research, and entrepreneurship.
- It aims to promote entrepreneurship in technical textiles by funding early-stage innovations.
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- Financial Support: Startups receive grants of up to ₹50 lakh for up to a period of 18 months.
- No Royalty Requirement: Unlike private funding, the government does not take a share of the startup’s profits.
- Upfront Contribution: Startups must deposit 10% of the allocated grant (e.g., ₹5 lakh for a ₹50 lakh grant).
- Sector Focus: Covers Medical, Industrial, and Protective Technical Textiles.
- Budget Allocation: Part of the ₹375 crore funding for FY 2025 under NTTM.
Back2Basics: National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM)
- Launched in 2020 to make India a global leader in technical textiles through research and innovation.
- Budget of ₹1,480 crore, focusing on medical, industrial, protective, and geo-textiles.
- Supports R&D, skill development, and investment in high-performance textiles for defense, healthcare, and infrastructure.
- Includes Production-Linked Incentives (PLI), PM MITRA Parks, and quality control regulations to boost manufacturing.
- Aims to increase India’s technical textiles market to $40-50 billion with 15-20% annual growth.
|
PYQ:
[2013] Analyse the factors for highly decentralized cotton textile industry in India. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana
Why in the News?
The Union Budget 2025 has significantly increased the allocation for the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (SGMBY) to ₹20,000 crore, up from ₹11,100 crore in the FY25 Revised Estimates (RE) and ₹6,250 crore in the FY25 Budget Estimates (BE).
About PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana:
- It is a flagship initiative launched by Prime Minister on February 15, 2024, under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
- It aims to provide free electricity up to 300 units per month by facilitating the installation of rooftop solar panels in 1 crore households across India.
- The scheme has a budget outlay of ₹75,021 crore and is planned for implementation until FY 2026-27.
- The initiative is part of India’s clean energy transition, reducing dependency on fossil fuels and promoting sustainable energy solutions.
- Key Features:
- 40% subsidy on installation costs through Central Financial Assistance (CFA).
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- 1 kilowatt: 30,000 rupees
- 2 kilowatts: 60,000 rupees
- 3 kilowatts: 48,000 rupees
- 3 kilowatts or more: 78,000 rupees
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- National Programme Implementation Agency (NPIA) at the national level and State Implementation Agencies (SIAs) at the state level.
- Two Solar Installation Models:
-
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- RESCO Model – Third-party ownership, with consumers paying only for electricity used.
- Utility-Led Aggregation (ULA) Model – DISCOMs or state agencies install solar panels for households.
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- Model Solar Village: ₹1 crore incentive for the top-performing village in each district.
- Payment Security Mechanism (PSM): ₹100 crore fund to encourage private investment in solar energy.
Significance
- Reduces Electricity Bills: Households can save ₹15,000 to ₹1,80,000 annually.
- Boosts Renewable Energy: Helps achieve 40 GW of rooftop solar capacity, bridging the gap from 10.4 GW (as of November 2023).
- Strengthens Energy Security: Expands access to sustainable and decentralized power.
- Environmental Impact: Reduces carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.
- Empowers Rural India: 50% of projects are expected in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, promoting economic growth and electrification.
PYQ:
[2020] India has immense potential for solar energy though there are regional variations in its developments. Elaborate. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Guru-Shishya Parampara Scheme
Why in the News?
The Ministry of Culture implements a Central Sector scheme by the name of ‘Financial Assistance for Promotion of Guru-Shishya Parampara (Repertory Grant)’.
What is the Guru-Shishya Parampara Scheme?
- The Ministry of Culture launched this scheme in 2003-04.
- It aims to preserve and promote India’s traditional performing arts.
- It provides financial assistance to Gurus (mentors) and Shishyas (students) in music, dance, theatre, and folk arts, ensuring structured training under the age-old mentorship system.
- Aims and Objectives:
- Preserve and revive rare art forms through direct knowledge transfer.
- Support traditional artists by providing financial aid for sustainable livelihoods.
- Encourage young talent by facilitating training under experienced Gurus.
- Promote classical, folk, and tribal art forms through structured mentorship.
Features and Significance:
- Financial Assistance
- Guru – ₹7,500/month | Accompanist – ₹3,750/month
- Shishyas – ₹1,500/month (up to four per Guru)
- Repertory Grant – Guru: ₹15,000/month | Shishya: ₹2,000 – ₹10,000/month
- Eligibility
- Indian citizens engaged in traditional performing arts.
- Gurus aged 45-70 years with national-level recognition.
- Implementation & Monitoring
- Each Guru trains 5-8 Shishyas, focusing on rural and tribal artists.
- Periodic reviews and expert evaluations ensure proper fund utilization.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Nuclear Energy Mission
Why in the News?
The Union Budget 2025-26 introduced the Nuclear Energy Mission, aiming to develop at least 5 indigenous Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) by 2033.
About Nuclear Energy Mission (NEM):
| Details |
- A flagship initiative announced in Union Budget 2025-26 to accelerate India’s nuclear power capacity towards the target of 100 GW by 2047.
- It focuses on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), expansion of Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs), and policy reforms to attract private and foreign investment in nuclear energy.
|
| Key Highlights of the NEM |
- 100 GW Nuclear Target by 2047 as part of India’s clean energy transition.
- ₹20,000 crore allocated for R&D and deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
- Public-Private Collaboration for setting up Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) and advanced nuclear technologies.
- Amendments to Atomic Energy Act, 1962 to allow private sector participation.
- Changes to Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 to attract foreign investment.
- Deployment of BSRs (220 MWe) and SMRs (30-300 MWe) to replace coal plants and power remote regions.
|
| Other Initiatives for Enhancing India’s Nuclear Capacity |
Expansion of Nuclear Power Capacity:
- Current capacity: 8,180 MW → Target by 2031-32: 22,480 MW.
- 10 reactors under construction (8,000 MW) across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh.
- Approval for 6 x 1208 MW AP1000 reactors (USA collaboration) at Kovvada, Andhra Pradesh.
Deployment of Advanced Nuclear Reactors:
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- Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs): 220 MWe PHWRs for industrial decarbonization.
- Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (500 MWe) at Kalpakkam achieved milestones in 2024.
- High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactors (HTGRs) & Molten Salt Reactors (MSRs) under development using India’s thorium reserves.
Recent Developments:
- New uranium deposit discovered at Jaduguda Mines (extends mine life by 50+ years).
- Operationalization of first two 700 MWe PHWR units at Kakrapar, Gujarat (KAPS-3 & 4).
- NPCIL-NTPC Joint Venture (ASHVINI) launched to build nuclear plants.
- Rajasthan Atomic Power Project-7 (RAPP-7) reached criticality in 2024.
|
PYQ:
[2018] With growing energy needs should India keep on expanding its nuclear energy programme? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy. (250 Words, 15 Marks)
[2011] The function of heavy water in a nuclear reactor is to:
(a) Slow down the speed of neutrons
(b) Increase the speed of neutrons
(c) Stop the nuclear reaction
(d) None of the above |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Gyan Bharatam Mission
Why in the News?
The Union Budget 2025-26 has introduced the Gyan Bharatam Mission, a comprehensive initiative for surveying, documenting, and conserving India’s manuscript heritage.
What is Gyan Bharatam Mission?
- It is a nationwide initiative launched in the Union Budget 2025-26 to survey, document, and conserve India’s manuscript heritage.
- The mission aims to cover over one crore manuscripts, ensuring the systematic preservation of ancient texts housed in academic institutions, museums, libraries, and private collections.
- It is a revival and expansion of the National Manuscripts Mission (NMM), which was originally established in 2003 but had limited impact due to inadequate funding and structural challenges.
- The mission aligns with India’s broader cultural conservation goals and is expected to create a centralized repository for India’s rich textual and intellectual heritage.
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- Survey and document manuscripts across institutions and private collections.
- Digitize rare texts and create a centralized repository for research and preservation.
- Restore and conserve fragile manuscripts using modern preservation techniques.
- Features and Significance:
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- Budget Allocation Increased: Funding for NMM raised from ₹3.5 crore to ₹60 crore.
- Digital Preservation: AI-driven archiving, metadata tagging, and translation tools for easy access.
PYQ:
[2023] With reference to Indian History, Alexander Rea, A. H. Longhurst, Robert Sewell, James Burgess and Walter Elliot were associated with (2023)
(a) archaeological excavations
(b) establishment of English Press in Colonial India
(c) establishment of Churches in Princely States
(d) construction of railways in Colonial India |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: National Manufacturing Mission (NMM)
Why in the News?
The Union Finance Minister, while presenting the Union Budget 2025-26, announced the launch of the National Manufacturing Mission (NMM) to boost India’s manufacturing sector under the Make in India initiative.
What is the National Manufacturing Mission?
- The NMM was announced in Union Budget 2025-26 to boost India’s manufacturing sector under the Make in India initiative.
- It covers small, medium, and large industries and aims to strengthen domestic production capabilities, enhance competitiveness, and create jobs.
- The mission provides policy support, execution roadmaps, and governance frameworks for both central ministries and state governments.
- It promotes Clean Tech manufacturing and focuses on developing an ecosystem for critical industrial components such as solar PV cells, EV batteries, wind turbines, and high-voltage transmission equipment.
- Aims and Objectives:
- Boost domestic production to reduce import dependence.
- Enhance MSME sector growth with credit expansion (₹10 crore from ₹5 crore).
Key Features & Significance:
- Infrastructure & Industrial Clusters to strengthen supply chains.
- National Action Plan for Toys to make India a global toy hub.
- New footwear & leather industry scheme to create 22 lakh jobs and boost exports.
- National Institute of Food Technology in Bihar to increase farmer incomes through food processing.
Back2Basics: National Manufacturing Policy (NMP)
- Launched in 2011 to boost India’s manufacturing sector.
- Aims to increase GDP share to 25% and create 100 million jobs in a decade.
- Focuses on National Investment and Manufacturing Zones (NIMZs) to attract investment and enhance productivity.
- Promotes technology advancement, skill development, and sustainable growth with fiscal & infrastructure incentives.
- Key areas: Ease of doing business, labor law reforms, export growth, and global competitiveness.
|
PYQ:
[2012] What is/are the recent policy initiative(s) of Government of India to promote the growth of manufacturing sector?
1. Setting up of National Investment and Manufacturing Zones
2. Providing the benefit of ‘single window clearance’
3. Establishing the Technology Acquisition and Development Fund
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme
Why in the News?
In the Union Budget 2025-26, Finance Minister, has introduced the Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme to provide digital textbooks in Indian languages.
What is Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme?
- Aims and Objectives:
- It will provide digital textbooks and study resources for students at the school and university levels, promoting regional languages in the education system.
- The scheme aims to bridge the language gap by providing digital textbooks and study materials in multiple Indian languages.
- It ensures that students from diverse linguistic backgrounds can study subjects in their mother tongue, improving comprehension and retention.
- It aligns with the NEP 2020 vision to promote multilingualism in education.
- It complements the ASMITA (Augmenting Study Materials in Indian Languages through Translation and Academic Writing) initiative.
- 22,000 books in Indian languages will be developed in the next five years under ASMITA.
Criteria and Provisions:
- The scheme will be implemented in schools, colleges, and universities across India.
- Institutions affiliated with UGC, AICTE, and other regulatory bodies will be part of the initiative.
- The scheme will focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), Social Sciences, Commerce, and Humanities.
- Special emphasis on technical education in Indian languages.
- The digital books will be available on government-supported e-learning platforms like DIKSHA, e-PG Pathshala, and National Digital Library of India.
- AI-based tools will be used to facilitate translations, voice-assisted learning, and personalized study materials.
PYQ:
[2016] ‘SWAYAM’, an initiative of the Government of India, aims at:
(a) Promoting the Self Help Groups in rural areas
(b) Providing financial and technical assistance to young start-up entrepreneurs
(c) Promoting the education and health of adolescent girls
(d) Providing affordable and quality education to the citizens for free |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Ethanol Production ;
Why in the News?
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved a revision in the ethanol procurement price for Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) for the Ethanol Supply Year (ESY) 2024-25.
What is the significance of the Price Revision?
The recent revision of the ethanol procurement price for Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) is significant for several reasons:
- Price Stability and Remuneration: The increase from ₹56.58 to ₹57.97 per litre ensures price stability and provides a more remunerative rate for ethanol suppliers, which is crucial for maintaining a steady supply of ethanol.
- Support for Sugarcane Farmers: The separate payment of Goods and Services Tax (GST) and transportation charges will benefit sugarcane farmers, enhancing their income and encouraging production.
- Meeting Blending Targets: The 3% increase in the price is aimed at ensuring adequate availability of ethanol to meet the ambitious blending target of 20% by 2025-26, advancing from the original target of 2030.
- Reducing Crude Oil Dependency: This initiative is part of a broader strategy to reduce India’s dependency on crude oil imports, leading to substantial foreign exchange savings and environmental benefits.
What is Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP)?
The Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme is a government initiative aimed at promoting the blending of ethanol with petrol to create a more sustainable and environmentally friendly fuel option.
- OMCs are currently blending up to 20% ethanol with petrol, which helps reduce reliance on imported crude oil and lowers carbon emissions.
- Ethanol blending has dramatically increased from 38 crore litres in the Ethanol Supply Year (ESY) 2013-14 to 707 crore litres in ESY 2023-24, achieving an average blending rate of 14.60%.
- The programme has resulted in estimated savings of over ₹1,13,007 crore in foreign exchange and has substituted approximately 193 lakh metric tonnes of crude oil over the past decade.
What are other initiatives taken to promote biofuels?
- National Policy on Biofuels (2018): This policy aims to reduce dependency on fossil fuels and promote sustainable development by encouraging the production and use of biofuels from various feedstocks such as sugarcane, broken rice, and maise.
- Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN Yojana: This initiative focuses on accelerating the development of second-generation (2G) ethanol capacity in India, providing viability gap funding to support the establishment of 2G ethanol projects.
- Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA): Launched in September 2023, this alliance aims to accelerate the global adoption of cleaner fuels and support decarbonization goals. It involves collaboration with multiple countries to enhance biofuel deployment.
- Repurpose Used Cooking Oil (RUCO) Initiative: Launched by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) in 2018, this initiative aims to convert used cooking oil into biofuel, thereby preventing its reuse in food preparation and promoting sustainability.
- Biodiesel Production Targets: India has set a biodiesel blending target of 5% by 2030. The government is mobilizing production through policies that support feedstock availability, including used cooking oil and non-edible industrial oils.
- Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Initiatives: The National Biofuel Coordination Committee has established targets for blending SAF in domestic flights, aiming for 1% by 2025 and 5% by 2030.
- Ethanol Blending Advancements: The target for ethanol blending has been advanced from 2030 to 2025, with plans to achieve 20% blending. This includes signing long-term off-take agreements with dedicated ethanol plants to ensure a steady supply.
|
Way forward:
- Strengthen Feedstock Supply Chain: Enhance agricultural productivity and diversify feedstock sources including maize and non-food biomass, to ensure a stable and sustainable ethanol supply.
- Expand Infrastructure and Investments: Develop ethanol storage, blending, and distribution networks while encouraging private sector participation through financial incentives and policy support.
Prelims PYQ:
[2013] With reference to the usefulness of the by-products of the sugar industry, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- Bagasse can be used as biomass fuel for the generation of energy.
- Molasses can be used as one of the feedstocks for the production of synthetic chemical fertilizers.
- Molasses can be used for the production of ethanol.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
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