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).
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:
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.
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.)
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
AboutSHAKTI 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?
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?
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
• Provideunified 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?
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.
AboutAyushman Vay Vandana Yojana:
Details
Features and Provisions
• Cashless health coverage up to ₹5 lakh per year for senior citizens aged 70and 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.
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.
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
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
Schemes | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth
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.
AboutPradhan 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.
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.
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
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 theRythu 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
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.
AboutPM 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).
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?
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
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.
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.
Schemes | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth
Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM E-Drive Scheme
Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet approved the PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-Drive) Scheme with an outlay of ₹10,900 crore over two years.
About PM E-DRIVE Scheme:
Details
Name
PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme
Total Outlay
₹10,900 crore for two years
Goal
Promote electric mobility, reduce pollution, and enhance fuel security
Reduce range anxiety by providing charging infrastructure in cities and highways.
Incentives
Direct subsidies for e-2Ws, e-3Ws, e-buses, e-ambulances, and e-trucks
Key Components
₹3,679 crore for demand incentives for e-2Ws, e-3Ws, e-ambulances, and e-trucks.
₹500 crore for e-ambulances.
₹4,391 crore for e-buses.
Other components:
E-Vouchers
Aadhaar-authenticated e-voucher for EV buyers;
Signed by both buyer and dealer for claiming incentives.
E-Bus Procurement
₹4,391 crore for 14,028 e-buses in 9 major cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Surat, Bangalore, Pune, Hyderabad)
Charging Infrastructure
₹2,000 crore for 72,300 public EV charging stations, including fast chargers for e-4Ws, e-buses, e-2Ws, and e-3Ws
Incentivizing E-Trucks
₹500 crore tied to scrapping certificates from MoRTH-approved scrapping centres
Testing and Upgradation
₹780 crore for upgradation of MHI’s test agencies for green mobility technologies
PYQ:
[2019] How is efficient and affordable urban mass transport key to the rapid economic development in India?
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: All phases of PMGSY
Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet has approved Phase IV of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY-IV) to build 62,500 km of all-weather roads, connecting villages across India.
AboutPradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)
Details
Launch
In 2000 by former PM Late Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
To provide connectivity to unconnected habitations.
Nodal Agency
Ministry of Rural Development
Type
Centrally Sponsored Scheme
Phases
Phase I: Focus on connecting unconnected habitations.
Phase II: Upgrading roads built in Phase I to enhance rural infrastructure.
Phase III: Consolidation of 1.25 lakh km of rural roads connecting habitations to Gramin Agricultural Markets, Higher Secondary Schools, and Hospitals. Cost: ₹80,250 crore (2019-2025). Funding: 60:40 (Centre), 90:10 for North-East and Himalayan States.
Phase IV: Aims at constructing 62,500 km of all-weather roads to provide connectivity to 25,000 unconnected habitations with focus on Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) areas, tribal areas, and remote regions.
Road Length and Coverage
62,500 km of all-weather roads covering 25,000 unconnected habitations.
Benefits of PMGSY-IV
Road Connectivity for 25,000 Villages:All-weather roads will provide reliable access to previously unconnected rural habitations, improving transportation and accessibility.
Socio-Economic Transformation: These roads will act as catalysts for socio-economic development in rural areas, enabling access to government educational institutions, health services, markets, and growth centers.
Enhanced Infrastructure: The construction will adopt international benchmarks and best practices, such as using Cold Mix Technology, Waste Plastic, Full Depth Reclamation, and materials like Fly Ash and Steel Slag, contributing to eco-friendly construction.
PYQ:
[2020] In rural road construction, the use of which of the following is preferred for ensuring environmental sustainability or to reduce carbon footprint?
Copper slag
Cold mix asphalt technology
Geotextiles
Hot mix asphalt technology
Portland cement
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
