Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) Program
Why in the News?
The Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) has facilitated a collaboration between the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and Trois Infotech on the development of “Face Recognition Using Drone” technology.
About Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF):
| Details |
- Launched on October 1, 2022 under the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), Ministry of Telecommunications.
- Supports indigenous telecom technologies, especially for rural communication needs.
About USOF (Universal Service Obligation Fund)
- USOF was established in April 2002 under the Indian Telegraph (Amendment) Act 2003.
- Objective: To provide financial support for telecom services in rural and remote areas that are commercially unviable.
- A non-lapsable fund, with the levy amount credited for continuous use.
- Operates as an attached office of the Department of Telecom, headed by an administrator appointed by the Central Government.
- Initially focused on providing basic telecom services in rural areas at affordable prices.
- Expanded scope to include mobile services, broadband connectivity, and infrastructure development in rural and remote areas.
|
|
| Aims and Objectives |
- Encourage Innovation: Create synergies across stakeholders (startups, R&D, academia) and focus on rural-specific telecom solutions.
- Bridge the Digital Divide: Provide affordable telecom solutions for rural areas and enhance connectivity.
- Intellectual Property Creation: Support R&D projects contributing to patentable technologies.
|
| Key Features and Structural Mandate |
Funding Mechanism:
- Grants for Indian startups, research institutes, academia, and telecom companies for R&D on rural telecom solutions.
- Managed by Department of Telecommunications (DoT) with USOF as the administering body.
Features:
- Incentives for Startups: Provides financial incentives for telecom R&D projects from prototype to commercialization.
- Collaborative Framework: Promotes collaboration between stakeholders such as startups, telecom companies, universities, and R&D centers.
- PoC and Pilot Support: Encourages proof of concept testing and pilots to validate technological solutions.
|
PYQ:
[2019] In India, which of the following review the independent regulators in sectors like telecommunications, insurance, electricity, etc.?
- Ad Hoc Committees set up by the Parliament
- Parliamentary Department Related Standing Committees
- Finance Commission
- Financial Sector Legislative Reforms Commission
- NITI Aayog
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 1, 3 and 4
(c) 3, 4 and 5
(d) 2 and 5 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS)
Why in the News?
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Labour has recommended increasing the minimum pension of ₹1,000 paid by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) under the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS).
About the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS):
| Details |
- Introduced in 1995 by the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) under the Ministry of Labour and Employment.
- Provides pension benefits to employees in the organized sector.
|
| Aims and Objectives |
- To provide pension benefits to employees in the organized sector.
- Ensures financial security for employees post-retirement or in case of disability or death.
|
| Features and Significance |
- Employee and Employer Contribution: Both contribute 12% of the salary towards the EPF.
- Employer’s Contribution: 8.33% of the employer’s contribution goes towards the pension fund.
- Union Government Contribution: 1.16% of the employee’s basic salary is contributed to the pension fund.
- Pension Fund Setup: The fund is created by allocating 8.33% of the employer’s contribution from the EPF corpus.
|
| Structural Mandate and Implementation |
Supreme Court in November 2022, the court upheld the Employees’ Pension (Amendment) Scheme, 2014, extending the deadline for opting for the new scheme by 4 months.
- Pre-Amendment Scheme: Pensionable salary was based on the average salary of the last 12 months prior to exiting the pension fund.
- Post-Amendment Scheme (2014): Pensionable salary based on average salary of the last 60 months (5 years).
|
| Eligibility Criteria |
- Applies to employees whose basic salary exceeds ₹15,000 per month.
- Employees who are members of the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) and meet the contribution requirements are eligible for the scheme.
|
PYQ:
[2021] With reference to casual workers employed in India, consider the following statements:
1. All casual workers are entitled for Employees Provident Fund coverage.
2. All casual workers are entitled for regular working hours and overtime payment.
3. The government can by a notification specify that an establishment or industry shall pay wages only through its bank account.
Which of the above statements are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 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: Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, AB-NHPM
Why in the News?
- In February 2018, the Centre had launched the initiative to establish 1,50,000 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs), formerly known as Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs), by December 2022.
- As of 31st July 2024, 1,73,881 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have been set up and are fully operational, exceeding the original target.
About the Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs):
| Details |
- Launched to provide comprehensive health services covering preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative care for all age groups.
- First AAM was launched in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh on April 18th, 2018.
- In FY 2018-19, over 17,000 AAMs were operationalized, surpassing the target of 15,000.
- Currently, there are 1.6 lakh such centres across India.
- National Health Policy of 2017 envisioned AAMs as the cornerstone of India’s health system.
- In 2023, the Union Health Ministry renamed AB-HWCs as Ayushman Arogya Mandirs with the tagline ‘Arogyam Parmam Dhanam’.
|
| Aims and Objectives |
- To provide universal, free-of-cost, and accessible primary healthcare services to both rural and urban populations.
|
| Features and Significance |
- Services provided include preventive, promotive, curative, palliative, and rehabilitative care.
- AAMs offer a comprehensive 12-package set of services.
- Sub-Health Centres (SHC) and Primary Health Centres (PHC) are being transformed to offer broader healthcare services.
|
| Structural Mandate |
Implemented via 2 Components:
- Comprehensive Primary Health Care: The mission plans to establish 1,50,000 AAMs in rural and urban areas to provide comprehensive primary healthcare services.
- Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY): The scheme provides a health insurance cover of Rs. 5 lakh per year to more than 10 crore vulnerable families for secondary and tertiary care.
|
PYQ:
[2022] With reference to Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, consider the following statements:
- Private and public hospitals must adopt it.
- As it aims to achieve universal health coverage, every citizen of India should be part of it ultimately.
- It has seamless portability across the country.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 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: PM-DevINE Scheme
Why in the News?
The Ministry of Development of North-East Region has provided progress update regarding various projects under the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE) Scheme.
About the PM-DevINE Scheme:
| Details |
PM-DevINE is a Central Sector scheme introduced under the Union Budget 2022-23, aiming to drive development in the North Eastern Region (NER) through infrastructure and social projects. |
| Aims and Objectives |
- Infrastructure Development: Enhance connectivity and accessibility in NER, aligned with PM GatiShakti.
- Social Development: Address critical issues and improve residents’ quality of life.
- Livelihood Opportunities: Focus on creating opportunities for youth and women.
|
| Structural Mandate and Implementation |
- Nodal Agency: Ministry of Development of North-East Region.
- Approval: Cabinet approved on 12th October 2022.
- Central Funding: 100% central funding for projects.
- Outlay: Rs. 6600 crore for FY 2022-23 to FY 2025-26.
- Project Sanctions: 35 projects worth Rs. 4857.11 crore sanctioned as of November 2024.
|
| State-wise Project Analysis |
- Sikkim: Passenger Ropeway System (completed), Skywalk Project (13% completed).
- Mizoram: Bamboo Link Roads (28% completed).
- Nagaland: Special Development Projects (30% completed).
- Assam: School Transformations (55% completed), IT Park Construction (23% completed).
- Manipur: Infrastructure for Manipur Technical University (25% completed).
- Tripura: Solar Micro Grid (30% completed), Skill Development Centre (work started).
|
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Yuva Sahakar Scheme
Why in the News?
The Ministry of Cooperation, in written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha has informed about the progress of the Yuva Sahakar Scheme.
Current Financial Details:
- As of 30th November 2024, the following financial assistance details have been recorded:
- Sanctioned Amount: ₹4734.97 lakh to cooperatives with 18,915 beneficiary members.
- Disbursed Amount: ₹294.44 lakh.
- Sanctioned for 2024: ₹230.61 lakh, with ₹89.88 lakh disbursed.
|
About the Yuva Sahakar Scheme:
|
Details |
| Overview and Objectives |
- Launched in 2018 under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
- Implemented by NCDC (National Cooperative Development Corporation), which operates under the Ministry of Cooperation
- Goal: To promote the formation of new cooperative societies and encourage innovative ideas from young entrepreneurs.
- Targets cooperatives that have been operational for at least 3 months.
| NOTE: NCDC was established in 1963 as a statutory Corporation under Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. |
|
| Features and Provisions |
- Loan Tenure: Up to 5 years.
- Interest Subvention: 2% subvention on the applicable interest rate for term loans related to project activities.
- Subsidy Integration: Loans can be combined with subsidies available under other Government of India schemes.
- Eligibility: All cooperatives in operation for at least 1 year are eligible for funding based on proposed projects.
|
| Significance |
- Encourages cooperatives to explore new and innovative areas.
- Dedicated fund by NCDC for youth cooperatives.
- Linked to the ₹1000 crore Cooperative Start-up and Innovation Fund (CSIF).
- Increased funding for cooperatives from North Eastern regions, Aspirational Districts, and those with women, SC/ST, or PwD members.
|
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Various initiatives mentioned
Why in the News?
- The Government of India, recognizing agriculture as a State subject, actively supports State governments through various policy measures and budgetary allocations aimed at improving the welfare of farmers.
- Below are some key initiatives approved by the Union Cabinet:
| Clean Plant Programme (CPP) |
- Approval Date: 09.08.2024 ; Outlay: ₹1,765.67 crore
- Objective: Enhance quality and productivity of horticulture crops.
- Key Features: Focus on providing disease-free planting material, promoting climate-resilient varieties, reducing crop losses, and improving horticultural produce quality.
- Financial Support: 50% from Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) budget and 50% as a loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
- Implementation: Establishment of 9 Clean Plant Centers (CPCs) for disease diagnostics, treatments, and quarantine; development of large-scale nurseries for clean planting material propagation; creation of a regulatory and certification framework to ensure traceability in planting material production.
|
| Digital Agriculture Mission |
- Objective: Create a robust digital ecosystem for farmers by providing timely and reliable crop-related information.
- Key Features: Establish Agristack, Krishi Decision Support System (DSS), Comprehensive Soil Fertility & Profile Map, Digital General Crop Estimation Survey (DGCES), and expansion of IT platforms like Krishi Nivesh Portal and Krishi-DSS Portal.
- Digital Infrastructure: Promotes farmer-centric solutions, digitization, and technology-enabled agricultural services.
(Discussed in detail in one of the today’s articles.) |
| Agriculture Infrastructure Fund Scheme |
- Approval Date: 28.08.2024
- Objective: Enhance agricultural infrastructure across India.
- Key Features: Loans up to ₹2 crores with 3% interest subvention for 7 years. Covers a wide range of entities like PACS, FPOs, self-help groups, agri-entrepreneurs. 24% reserved for SC/ST entrepreneurs.
- Credit Guarantee: Available under Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) for loans up to ₹2 crores.
Integration: Linked with PM Kusum ‘A’ and other community farming assets projects to enhance agricultural production.
|
| National Mission on Edible Oils – Oilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds) |
- Approval Date: 03.10.2024; Outlay: ₹10,103 crore
- Objective: Boost domestic oilseed production and achieve self-reliance in edible oils.
- Implementation Period: 2024-25 to 2030-31
- Key Features: Target to increase oilseed production from 39 million tonnes (2022-23) to 69.7 million tonnes by 2030-31. Focus on key oilseeds like rapeseed, mustard, groundnut, soybean, sunflower, and Sesamum.
- Expansion: Oilseed cultivation in rice fallow areas, and intercropping. Setting up 65 new seed hubs and 50 seed storage units. Development of over 600 Value Chain Clusters in 347 districts.
|
| National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) |
- Approval Date: 25.11.2024; Outlay: ₹2,481 crore (GOI Share: ₹1,584 crore; State Share: ₹897 crore)
- Objective: Promote natural farming practices across India.
- Key Features: Focus on Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati (BPKP), scaling up natural farming across 7.5 lakh hectares through 15,000 clusters.
- Financial Assistance: ₹15,000 per hectare for 3 years to farmers for infrastructure creation.
- Infrastructure: Establishment of 15,000 BRCs to facilitate access to bio-inputs like cow dung, neem, and bioculture. Master Trainer Program for large-scale training on natural farming techniques.
|
| Additional Key Programmes Initiated in 2024-25 |
- National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS): To monitor and control pest infestations.
- AgriSURE: A fund for start-ups and rural enterprises in agriculture.
- Krishi Nivesh Portal (Phase-I): A platform for facilitating investments in the agriculture sector.
- Krishi-DSS Portal: A geospatial platform to provide decision support for Indian agriculture.
- Voluntary Carbon Market (VCM): Promoting sustainable agricultural practices through carbon credit initiatives.
|
PYQ:
[2020] In India, which of the following can be considered as public investment in agriculture?
- Fixing Minimum Support Price for agricultural produce of all crops
- Computerization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies
- Social Capital development
- Free electricity supply to farmers
- Waiver of agricultural loans by the banking system
- Setting up of cold storage facilities by the governments
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 5 only
(b) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only
(c) 2, 3 and 6 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana
Why in the News?
- The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare has provided state-wise details of farmers registered under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PMKMY).
- Top Three States: Haryana (5,74,467), Bihar (3,45,038), Chhattisgarh (2,02,734).
- Bottom Three States/UT: Lakshadweep (72), Ladakh (114), Goa (150).
- Recently, the PMKMY (launched on 12th September 2019) has completed 5 successful years.
About Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PMKMY)
| Details |
Type: Central Sector Scheme
Objective: To provide a voluntary, contributory pension scheme for farmers aged 18–40 years, ensuring ₹3,000/month pension after they turn 60 years of age. |
| Implementation & Structural Mandate |
Implemented by: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
Pension Fund Manager: Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) of India
State-wise Registration: Registered farmers are managed by the respective state governments in collaboration with LIC. The scheme encourages a structured approach involving the collection of contributions and government matching funds.
Contribution: Farmers contribute between ₹55 and ₹200 per month, depending on their entry age. |
| Beneficiaries & Benefits |
Beneficiaries: Farmers aged 18–40 years.
Benefits: Assured pension of ₹3,000 per month post-60 years, matching contribution by the Government of India, administered by LIC.
Exclusions: Income taxpayers, members of government pension schemes, and those already enrolled in other pension schemes. |
PYQ:
[2020] In India, which of the following can be considered as public investment in agriculture? (2020)
- Fixing Minimum Support Price for agricultural produce of all crops
- Computerization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies
- Social Capital development
- Free electricity supply to farmers
- Waiver of agricultural loans by the banking system
- Setting up of cold storage facilities by the governments
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 5 only
(b) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only
(c) 2, 3 and 6 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: SHAKTI Yojana
Why in the News?
The SHAKTI Yojana plays a crucial role in enhancing the reliability of coal supply for India’s power sector.
About SHAKTI Yojana:
| Details |
• SHAKTI stands for Scheme for Harnessing and Allocating Koyala Transparently in India.
• Introduced by: Ministry of Coal, Government of India.
• Launched in 2018, with amendments in March 2019 and November 2023.
• Purpose: Ensure transparent coal allocation to the power sector, especially stressed power units facing coal shortages. |
| Objective |
Allocate coal supplies to power plants that are unable to secure adequate fuel, ensuring consistent and transparent coal supply to power plants.
Features:
Fuel Supply Agreement (FSA): Coal supplied through FSA with Letter of Assurance (LoA) holders, ensuring continuation of supply at 75% of the Annual Contracted Quantity (ACQ).
Coal Linkages: Linkages granted to State/Central Generating Companies and Independent Power Producers (IPPs) with Long-Term PPAs. |
| Significance |
• Ensures coal supply to stressed units, supporting new power plants and promoting transparency in coal allocation.
• Supports uninterrupted power generation by ensuring consistent fuel supply. |
About India’s Coal Gasification Vision:
To achieve 100 MT of coal gasification by FY 2030, with a focus on sustainable practices and reducing carbon emissions.
- Incentive: Reimburse GST compensation cess on coal used for gasification projects for 10 years, contingent on cess extension beyond FY27.
- Target: Attract both Government PSUs and the Private Sector to drive innovation and investment in coal gasification.
- Process: Entities selected through a transparent bidding process; government support for eligible PSUs and private firms to implement projects.
|
PYQ:
[2019] Consider the following statements:
1. Coal sector was nationalized by the Government of India under Indira Gandhi.
2. Now, coal blocks are allocated on lottery basis.
3. Till recently, India imported coal to meet the shortages of domestic supply, but now India is self-sufficient in coal production.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: AYURGYAN and AYURSWATHYA Scheme
Why in the News?
- The National AYUSH Mission (NAM) is an important Centrally Sponsored Scheme aimed at promoting and developing the AYUSH systems of medicine across the country.
- In addition to NAM, Central Sector Schemes like the AYURSWASTHYA Yojana and the AYURGYAN Scheme play a crucial role in advancing the mission’s objectives
About AYURGYAN and AYURSWATHYA Scheme
|
Details |
| AYURSWASTHYA Yojana |
• Under the Ministry of AYUSH to promote AYUSH healthcare and education.
• Has two key components:
- AYUSH and Public Health: Promotes AYUSH interventions for community health care.
- Upgradation of Facilities to Centre of Excellence: Improves standards of AYUSH medical units and establishes advanced centers in AYUSH and Allopathic institutions (both Govt. and Private).
• Funding: Maximum assistance of ₹10 crore for Centre of Excellence upgrades for 3 years. |
| AYURGYAN Scheme |
• Created by merging two schemes under one umbrella.
• Focuses on promoting AYUSH education and research.
• Aims to develop quality standards and expand AYUSH education and healthcare services across India.
• Training of healthcare professionals in AYUSH and supporting research initiatives to improve efficacy and standards of traditional medicine. |
Back2Basics: National AYUSH Mission (NAM)
| Category |
Details |
| Overview |
• Launched in September 2014 under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare during the 12th Five Year Plan.
• Aimed at promoting and strengthening traditional systems of medicine: AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy).
• Focuses on improving healthcare infrastructure in rural and remote areas, enhancing access to AYUSH services and promoting holistic health across India. |
| Implementation and Structure |
• Initially implemented by the Department of AYUSH, now under the Ministry of AYUSH for nationwide execution.
• Works in partnership with States and UTs to address healthcare gaps in underserved areas. |
| Provisions under NAM |
• Promotion of AYUSH Systems: Integrates AYUSH into the mainstream healthcare system, especially in rural and underserved areas.
• Support to State/UTs: Provides financial support for establishing AYUSH dispensaries, clinics, colleges and hospitals.
• Strengthening AYUSH Health Services: Financial assistance for expanding AYUSH services, especially in remote areas.
• Research & Development (R&D): Supports research for developing better treatments and standardizing practices in AYUSH. |
PYQ:
[2019] How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies? |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: One Nation One Subscription (ONOS) Scheme
Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet has approved the “One Nation One Subscription (ONOS) scheme” aims to provide nationwide access to scholarly research articles and journals.
One Nation One Subscription (ONOS): Everything you need to know
| About |
• Fully digital and user-friendly Central Sector Scheme approved by the Union Cabinet. |
| Aims and Objectives |
• Provide unified access to scholarly journals and research articles for government HEIs and R&D labs.
• Support research through the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) and other government initiatives, particularly in tier 2 and tier 3 cities.
• Centralize subscriptions to reduce the financial burden on individual institutions.
• Align with Viksit Bharat@2047, National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, and National Research Foundation (NRF). |
| Structural Mandate |
• Information and Library Network (INFLIBNET), an autonomous inter-university center under UGC, will coordinate ONOS and ensure seamless access to research materials.
• 6,300 institutions under central and state government management, including universities, colleges, and R&D labs.
• A dedicated digital portal for easy access, designed for wide accessibility. |
| Provisions and Eligibility Criteria |
• All government-run HEIs and R&D institutions are eligible.
• 13,000 journals from 30 international publishers are available free of cost.
• ₹6,000 crore allocated for 2025-2027; payments to publishers made centrally by INFLIBNET. |
PYQ:
[2013] To obtain full benefits of demographic dividend, what should India do?
(a) Promoting skill development
(b) Introducing more social security schemes
(c) Reducing infant mortality rate
(d) Privatization of higher education |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Features of Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana
Why in the News?
Within just three weeks of its launch, over 10 lakh senior citizens have enrolled for the Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana.
| Note: Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PM-VVY) is a pension scheme and insurance policy for senior citizens in India. One must not get confused with Ayushman-VVY. |
About Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana:
|
Details |
| Features and Provisions |
• Cashless health coverage up to ₹5 lakh per year for senior citizens aged 70 and above.
• Beneficiaries receive an Ayushman Vay Vandana Card, which grants them access to free treatment in empaneled hospitals across India.
• Coverage includes medical consultations, treatments, pre- and post-hospitalization expenses, and complex procedures such as angioplasty. |
| Structural Mandate |
• Administered under the PM-JAY framework, ensuring structured implementation and integration with India’s health insurance network.
• Implemented across empaneled hospitals in both urban and rural areas, ensuring nationwide reach.
• Centralized digital system tracks treatments, patient details, and expenses for transparency and accountability.
• Specifically designed for senior citizens, addressing their unique healthcare needs. |
| Aims and Objectives |
• Universal healthcare for senior citizens, ensuring access to essential medical treatments without financial strain.
• Seeks to reduce out-of-pocket expenditure for elderly citizens and their families.
• Encourages preventive care and early medical intervention to address age-related health conditions. |
| Eligibility Criteria |
• Open to all Indian citizens aged 70 and above.
• There are NO income/ family size restrictions, making it accessible to all senior citizens, regardless of their economic status.
• Beneficiaries must be Indian citizens.
• Seniors need to register under PM-JAY to receive the AVV Card and avail of the benefits. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM-Vidyalaxmi Scheme
Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet has approved a new Central Sector Scheme named PM Vidyalaxmi to provide financial assistance to meritorious students pursuing higher education.
About the PM Vidyalaxmi Scheme:
|
Details |
| Objective |
To provide financial assistance to meritorious students pursuing higher education in quality institutions. |
| Eligible Students |
Students gaining admission to the top 860 Quality Higher Education Institutions (QHEIs), including government and private institutions. |
| Annual Family Income Criteria |
Up to ₹8 lakh for students who do not qualify for other government scholarships or interest subsidies. |
| Eligibility Based on NIRF Rankings |
• Top 100 institutions in overall, category-specific, and domain-specific NIRF lists.
• State government-run institutions ranked 101-200.
• All Central government-governed institutions. |
| Loan Amounts |
• Loans up to ₹7.5 lakh with a 75% credit guarantee.
• For loans up to ₹10 lakh, 3% interest subvention during the moratorium period. |
| Target Beneficiaries |
Approximately 1 lakh students each year, with preference for students in technical or professional courses from government institutions. |
| Financial Outlay |
₹3,600 crore for the period from 2024-25 to 2030-31. |
| Expected Impact |
Benefit for 7 lakh new students through interest subvention during the scheme’s duration. |
| Application Process |
Applications can be submitted via the PM-Vidyalaxmi portal for loans and interest benefits. |
| Payment Processing |
Interest support payments through e-vouchers and Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) wallets. |
| Significance |
Aims to enhance access to higher education for meritorious students, reducing financial barriers. |
PYQ:
[2016] Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana is aimed at:
(a) bringing the small entrepreneurs into formal financial system
(b) providing loans to poor farmers for cultivating particular crops
(c) providing pensions to old and destitute persons
(d) funding the voluntary organizations involved in the promotion of skill development and employment generation |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Namo Drone Didi Scheme and its features
Why in the News?
The Govt. has released the Operational Guidelines for the Namo Drone Didi Scheme.
About Namo Drone Didi Scheme:
|
Details |
| About |
- Central Sector Scheme for the period of 2024 to 2026.
- To provide drones to 14,500 Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) for rental agricultural services (applying liquid fertilizers and pesticides)
|
| Total Funding |
Rs. 1,261 crore allocated by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. |
| Financial Assistance |
- 80% of the cost (up to ₹8 lakh per drone), with remaining 20% to be financed through loans.
- Loans available under National Agriculture Infra Financing Facility (AIF) with 3% interest subvention; SHGs can also access loans from other Rural Development programs
|
| Training |
- 15 days mandatory training for drone pilots.
- Additional training for drone assistants in repairs and maintenance.
|
| Training Providers |
Remote Pilot Training Organizations (RPTOs) approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). |
| Implementing Agency |
- Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs) responsible for coordinating with State Departments, drone manufacturers, and SHGs.
- They will procure drones through a transparent process, with ownership placed with the Cluster Level Federations (CLFs) of SHGs or the SHGs themselves.
|
| Operational Limits |
Drones must operate within visual line of sight (vLOS) and below 400 feet (120 meters) AGL. |
| Expected Outcomes |
- Each SHG is expected to cover approximately 2,000-2,500 acres annually;
- IT-based Management Information System (MIS) – Drone Portal for tracking drone usage, fund disbursement, and monitoring service delivery
|
PYQ:
[2020] Consider the following activities:
- Spraying pesticides on a crop field.
- Inspecting the craters of active volcanoes.
- Collecting breath samples from spouting whales for DNA analysis.
At the present level of technology, which of the above activities can be successfully carried out by using drones?
(a) 1 and 2 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: Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY)
Why in the News?
- The Centre has doubled the limit of Mudra loan amount under the PMMY to Rs 20 lakh from Rs 10 lakh under a new ‘Tarun Plus’ category to promote entrepreneurship in the country.
- This higher loan limit is available to entrepreneurs who have previously taken and successfully repaid loans under the existing ‘Tarun’ category.
About Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY):
|
Details |
| Launch |
Launched on April 8, 2015, by Prime Minister. |
| Objective |
- To provide financial assistance and support to non-corporate, non-farm small and micro-entrepreneurs through collateral-free loans.
- Non-corporate, non-farm small and micro-entrepreneurs are individuals or entities that operate small-scale businesses outside the corporate and agricultural sectors.
- These include self-employed workers, small retail shops, artisans, repair services, and other informal sector businesses, often with limited capital and workforce.
|
| Recent Update |
Loan limit increased from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh under the new Tarun Plus category, announced in July 2024. |
| Loan Categories |
• Shishu: Loans up to Rs 50,000
• Kishore: Loans between Rs 50,000 and Rs 5 lakh
• Tarun: Loans between Rs 5 lakh and Rs 10 lakh
• Tarun Plus: Loans between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 20 lakh |
| Loan Performance (2023-24) |
• 66.8 million Loans sanctioned totaling Rs 5.4 trillion.
• Over 487.8 million loans worth Rs 29.79 trillion sanctioned since launch. |
| NPA Statistics |
• NPA of public sector banks under Mudra loans decreased to 3.4% in FY24, down from 4.77% in 2020-21.
• Gross NPA for scheduled commercial banks at 2.8% as of March 2024. |
| Target Beneficiaries |
Aims to empower women, minorities, and marginalized communities by facilitating easy access to credit. |
| Technological Intervention |
- MUDRA Card: An innovative credit product that offers an overdraft facility and can be used like a debit card for transactions.
- MUDRA MITRA App: A mobile application providing information about MUDRA and its schemes, guiding loan seekers to approach banks for availing loans.
|
PYQ:
[2016] Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana is aimed at:
(a) Bringing the small entrepreneurs into formal financial system.
(b) Providing loans to poor farmers for cultivating particular crops.
(c) Providing pension to old and destitute persons.
(d) Funding the voluntary organizations involved in the promotion of skill development and employment generation. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM-YASASVI Scheme
Why in the News?
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has implemented the PM Young Achievers Scholarship Award Scheme for Vibrant India (PM-YASASVI).
About PM-YASASVI Scheme
|
Details |
| Launch Year |
2021-22 |
| Purpose |
To provide financial assistance and educational support to students from Other Backward Classes (OBC), Economically Backward Classes (EBC), and De-notified Tribes (DNT). |
| Eligibility Criteria |
• Students from OBC, EBC, and DNT(Denotified Tribes) categories
• Annual family income up to ₹2.50 lakh
• Additional criteria may apply based on specific schemes. |
| Benefits |
• Scholarships for pre-matriculation (Class 9-10) and post-matriculation (higher studies)
• Covers tuition, hostel expenses, and academic costs
• Hostel facilities for OBC students
• Promotes educational advancement for marginalized communities. |
| Scholarship Amounts |
• Class 9 and Class 10: ₹75,000 annually
• Class 11 and Class 12: ₹1,25,000 annually |
| Selection Criteria |
• Based on performance in the YASASVI Entrance Test (YET) conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Application Process |
• Applications submitted online through the National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in) |
| Significance |
Promotes inclusivity and social progress by supporting students from OBC, EBC, and DNT backgrounds in their educational pursuits. |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: SAMARTH Scheme
Why in the News?
The Samarth Scheme (Scheme for Capacity Building in Textiles Sector), which aims to teach 300,000 people in textile-related skills, has been extended for two years (FY 2024–25 and 2025–26).
Achievements of the SAMARTH Scheme:
- So far, 3.27 lakh candidates have been trained under the Samarth Scheme, with 2.6 lakh (79.5%) of them gaining employment.
- There is a strong focus on women’s employment, with 2.89 lakh (88.3%) women trained so far.
|
What is ‘SAMARTH’ Scheme?
|
Details |
| Name |
Samarth (Scheme for Capacity Building in Textile Sector) |
| Nodal Ministry |
Ministry of Textiles |
| Approval |
Approved by the Cabinet Committee of Economic Affairs as a continuation of the Integrated Skill Development Scheme for the 12th Five Year Plan (FYP) |
| Implementing Agency |
Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) |
| Objectives |
• Provide demand-driven, placement-oriented skilling programs
• Incentivize industry efforts to create jobs in organized textile and related sectors
• Promote skilling and skill upgradation in traditional sectors |
| Scope |
Covers the entire textile value chain, excluding spinning and weaving |
| Special Provisions |
Includes upskilling and reskilling programs to improve productivity of existing workers in the apparel and garmenting segments |
| Target Beneficiaries |
Handicraft artisans and individuals seeking employment in the textile sector |
| Implementing Agencies |
• Textile Industry
• Institutions/Organizations of the Ministry of Textiles/State Governments with training infrastructure
• Reputed training institutions/NGOs/Trusts/Companies with placement tie-ups |
PYQ:
[2020] Consider the following statements:
- The value of Indo-Sri Lanka trade has consistently increased in the last decade.
- “Textile and textile articles” constitute an important item of trade between India and Bangladesh.
- In the last five years, Nepal has been the largest trading partner of India in South Asia.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Rythu Bharosa Scheme
Why in the News?
After the completion of the loan waiver, the Telangana government will provide Rythu Bharosa assistance to support farmers further.
About the Rythu Bharosa Scheme:
|
Details |
| Scheme Name |
Rythu Bharosa Scheme (Farmer’s Investment Support Scheme – FISS) |
| Launch Year |
2018-19 Kharif season (Telangana Govt’s Navratna Scheme) |
| Objective |
To support the initial investment needs of farmers by providing financial aid for agriculture and horticulture crops. |
| Benefits |
₹5,000 per acre per season as a grant for input purchases, with no cap on the number of acres owned by farmers. |
| Eligibility |
- Farmers must be residents of Telangana.
- Must own agricultural land.
- Small and marginal farmers are eligible.
- Farmers cultivating land with Record of Forest Rights (ROFR) document (mainly from Scheduled Tribe communities).
|
| Ineligible Farmers |
- Commercial farmers.
- Farmers working on a rental contract or tenant farmers.
|
Significance of the move
- Financial Relief for Farmers: By waiving loans of up to ₹2 lakh per farmer, the scheme provides significant financial relief, helping farmers manage their debt and invest in future agricultural activities.
- Boost to Agricultural Sector: The waiver will enable farmers to focus on improving productivity and crop yields without the burden of debt, potentially boosting the state’s agricultural output.
- Reduction in Farmer Distress: This move will alleviate distress among farmers, especially those affected by unpredictable weather and fluctuating crop prices, reducing the risk of farm-related suicides and financial instability.
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 using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 5 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM-RKVY, KY
Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet approved the rationalization of all Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare into two umbrella schemes:
- Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY) – A cafeteria scheme aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture.
- Krishonnati Yojana (KY) – Focuses on food security and agricultural self-sufficiency.
About PM Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY):
|
Details |
| Objective |
To promote sustainable agriculture and improve agricultural productivity. |
| Total Proposed Expenditure |
Rs 1,01,321.61 crore (combined with Krishonnati Yojana). |
| Central Share (DA&FW) |
Rs 57,074.72 crore under PM-RKVY. |
| Key Initiatives under PM-RKVY |
- Soil Health Management
- Rainfed Area Development
- Agro Forestry
- Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana
- Agricultural Mechanization (including Crop Residue Management)
- Per Drop More Crop
- Crop Diversification Programme
- RKVY DPR Component
- Accelerator Fund for Agri Startups
|
| Key Focus |
Sustainable agricultural practices, soil health, water conservation, crop diversification, organic farming, and agricultural mechanization. |
| Flexibility for States |
Increased flexibility for state governments to reallocate funds based on unique requirements of the states. |
| Implementation Method |
Funds allocated to states, with state governments developing Comprehensive Strategic Documents addressing crop production, climate resilience, and value chains. |
| Benefits |
Avoid duplication, ensure convergence, and streamline the approval process for quicker implementation of Annual Action Plans (AAP). |
Schemes merged into Krishonnati Yojana (KY):
- National Food Security Mission (NFSM)
- National Mission on Oilseeds and Oil Palm (NMOOP)
- Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)
- National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA)
- Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM)
- National Mission on Agricultural Extension and Technology (NMAET)
- Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER)
PYQ:
[2014] Consider the following pairs:
| Programme/Project |
Ministry |
| 1. Drought – Prone Areas Programme |
Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare |
| 2. Desert Development Programme |
Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change |
| 3. National Watershed Development Project for Rainfed Areas |
Ministry of rural development |
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) Only 1 and 2
(b) Only 3
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) None of these |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Bio-RIDE Scheme
Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet has approved the “Biotechnology Research Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (Bio-RIDE) scheme” to support cutting-edge research and development in biotechnology.
About Bio-RIDE Scheme
|
Details |
| Objective |
To support cutting-edge research, bio-entrepreneurship, and bio-manufacturing in biotechnology. |
| Total Outlay |
₹9,197 crore for the 15th Finance Commission period (2021-22 to 2025-26). |
| Components |
- Merges Biotechnology Research and Development (R&D) and Industrial & Entrepreneurship Development (I&ED).
- Introduces Bio-manufacturing and Bio-foundry as new components.
|
| Key Aims |
- Fostering Innovation: Promote bio-entrepreneurship and strengthen India’s position in biotechnology.
- Bridging Gaps: Accelerate research and product development.
|
| Implementation Focus |
- Promoting Bio-Entrepreneurship: Seed funding, incubation, mentorship for startups.
- Advancing Innovation: Grants for research in synthetic biology, bio-pharma, and bio-plastics.
|
| Focus Areas |
- Extramural Funding for research in agriculture, healthcare, bioenergy, and environmental sustainability.
- Nurturing human resources in biotechnology.
|
| Industry-Academia Collaboration |
Synergies between academic institutions and industry to accelerate commercialization of bio-based products. |
| Significance |
- Enhances bio-innovation and supports sustainable development.
- Contributes to achieving green goals and global leadership in biotechnology.
|
PYQ:
[2019] Atal Innovation Mission is set up under the
(a) Department of Science and Technology
(b) Ministry of Labour and Employment
(c) NITI Aayog
(d) Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (PMJUGA)
Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet approved the “Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan” with a total outlay of ₹79,156 crore (₹56,333 crore as central share and ₹22,823 crore as state share).
About Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (PMJUGA)
|
Details |
| Objective |
Improve socio-economic conditions of tribal communities through scheme convergence. |
| Outlay |
₹79,156 crore (₹56,333 crore central; ₹22,823 crore state share). |
| Coverage |
63,000 villages; 5 crore people in 549 districts across 30 States/UTs. |
| Focus Areas |
Housing, healthcare, education, skill development, livelihoods, infrastructure. |
| Implementation |
25 interventions by 17 ministries; monitored via PM Gati Shakti Portal. |
| Social Component |
- Pucca houses (PMAY), water supply (Jal Jeevan Mission), road and mobile connectivity, education, healthcare.
- Increase GER, build tribal hostels, reduce IMR & MMR through Mobile Medical Units.
|
| Economic Push |
Tribal Home Stays, Sickle Cell Disease management (Centers of Competence), 100 Tribal Multipurpose Marketing Centres (TMMCs) for tribal product marketing. |
| Sustainable Livelihood |
Support 22 Lakh Forest Rights Act (FRA) patta holders for forest rights and sustainable agriculture, animal husbandry, and allied activities. |
| Special Initiatives |
Tribal Home Stays, SCD management, and establishment of Tribal Multipurpose Marketing Centres (TMMC). |
| Eligibility |
Tribal-majority villages: 500+ population (plains), 250+ (NE & Hill States), 100+ (LWE districts based on Census 2011). |
PYQ:
[2021] At the national level, which ministry is the nodal agency to ensure effective implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006?
(a) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
(b) Ministry of Panchayati Raj
(c) Ministry of Rural Development
(d) Ministry of Tribal Affairs
[2017] What are the two major legal initiatives by the State since Independence addressing discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (STs)?
[2016] Why are the tribals in India referred to as ‘the Scheduled Tribes’? Indicate the major provisions enshrined in the Constitution of India for their upliftment. |
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