Horticulture, Floriculture, Commercial crops, Bamboo Production – MIDH, NFSM-CC, etc.

[pib] Clean Plant Programme (CPP)

Schemes | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Agriculture and related issues

Why in the News?

The government has announced the establishment of 9 Clean Plant Centres across the country as part of the recently approved Rs 1,765.67 crore Clean Plant Programme (CPP).

What is Clean Plant Programme (CPP)?

Launch: Cleared by the Union Cabinet in August 2024 with an outlay of ₹1,765.67 crore, supported by a $98 million Asian Development Bank loan.
Implementation: Led by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare through the National Horticulture Board (NHB), with technical support from ICAR.
Objective: Supply virus-free, high-quality planting material to improve crop yield, quality, and farmer incomes in horticulture.
Scope: Focus on fruit crops such as grapes, oranges, pomegranates, apples, and citrus.

Key Features:

Centres: Establishment of 9 Clean Plant Centres (CPCs) across India; three in Maharashtra – Pune (grapes), Nagpur (oranges), Solapur (pomegranates).
Research Hub: National-level laboratory in Pune for original plant species research.
Financial Aid: ₹3 crore for large nurseries, ₹1.5 crore for medium nurseries; target of 8 crore disease-free seedlings annually.
Certification & Traceability: Strong framework to ensure disease-free mother plants and regulated propagation.
Global Cooperation: Collaboration with Israel and the Netherlands for clean plant technologies.
Policy Alignment: Supports Mission LiFE, One Health, and Viksit Bharat 2047.

On-Ground Progress:

Dedicated Website: Launched as central hub – cpp-beta.nhb.gov.in.
Hazard Analysis:
- Grapevine: 578 samples tested from multiple states.
- Apple: 535 samples under testing from Himalayan and northern states.
- Citrus: Hazard profiling preparations underway.
Assessments: ICAR, NHB, and ADB conducted lab and nursery visits (2024–25) to strengthen diagnostics and bioinformatics using High-Throughput Sequencing (HTS).
Propagation Protocol: Negative samples re-tested; positive ones treated with tissue culture, heat, or cryotherapy before propagation.
Infrastructure: First Clean Plant Centre underway; design bidding initiated.

[UPSC 2011] With what purpose is the GoI promoting the concept of “Mega Food Parks”?

1. To provide good infrastructure facilities for the food processing industry.

2. To increase the processing of perishable items and reduce wastage.

3. To provide emerging and eco-friendly food processing technologies to entrepreneurs.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Options: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only* (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

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Textile Sector – Cotton, Jute, Wool, Silk, Handloom, etc.

What is PM MITRA Park?

Schemes | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth
Why in the News?

Prime Minister recently laid the foundation stone for India’s first PM MITRA (Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel) Park in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh.

About PM MITRA Scheme:
- Overview: Introduced by the Ministry of Textiles in 2021, the scheme aims to strengthen India’s textile sector by creating 7 world-class integrated parks.
- Concept: Designed on the vision “Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion to Foreign”, each park consolidates the entire textile value chain—spinning, weaving, dyeing, processing, printing, and garment-making—within a single ecosystem.
- Sites Selected: Tamil Nadu (Virudhunagar), Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh (Dhar), and Uttar Pradesh (Lucknow).
- Timeline: All parks are targeted to be established by 2026–27, with each covering around 1,000+ acres.
- Implementation Structure:
  - Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV): Each park will be developed by an SPV jointly owned by the Centre and State Governments, operating in Public–Private Partnership (PPP) mode.
  - Development Capital Support (DCS): Up to ₹500 crore per park provided by the Centre to SPVs.
  - Competitive Incentive Support (CIS): Up to ₹300 crore per park offered to manufacturing units to encourage rapid implementation.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Integrated Value Chain: All stages of textile production are located in one hub, reducing transport costs, delays, and inefficiencies.
- World-Class Infrastructure: Includes incubation centres, design/testing labs, effluent treatment plants, reliable utilities, logistics facilities, and worker hostels.
- Employment Generation: Each park expected to create ~1 lakh direct and ~2 lakh indirect jobs, especially benefiting women and rural youth.
- Investment Boost: Scheme aims to attract over ₹70,000 crore in investments in the textile sector.
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Mother and Child Health – Immunization Program, BPBB, PMJSY, PMMSY, etc.

[pib] Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan (SNSPA)

Schemes | Social Justice | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

Why in the News?

Prime Minister has launched the Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan (SNSPA) alongside the 8th Rashtriya Poshan Maah.

About Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan (SNSPA):

Launch: Introduced on 17 September 2025 by the PM, jointly led by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
Objective: Strengthen women’s, children’s, and family health services, focusing on rural, tribal, and underserved regions.
Scale: Over 10 lakh health camps at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, Community Health Centres (CHCs), and District Hospitals.
Screenings: Anaemia, hypertension, diabetes, TB, breast and cervical cancers, sickle cell disease, reproductive health conditions.
Services offered: Maternal, child, adolescent health including antenatal care, immunisation, nutrition counselling, menstrual hygiene, mental health, lifestyle awareness.
Digital Monitoring: SASHAKT portal ensures real-time data tracking and transparency.
Jan Bhagidaari: Collaboration with private hospitals, SHGs, Anganwadis, Panchayati Raj institutions, volunteers.
Tribal Focus: Specialised medical services and tailored counselling for remote and tribal areas.

What is Rashtriya Poshan Maah?

Overview: Part of POSHAN Abhiyaan (National Nutrition Mission); celebrated annually since 2018.
2025 Edition: 8th Poshan Maah, aligned with SNSPA for synergised impact.
Aim: Mobilise communities to improve nutrition of children, pregnant women, lactating mothers, and adolescent girls.
Activities: Poshan Panchayats, health and nutrition camps, recipe demos, rallies, school-Anganwadi outreach, Jan Andolan approach.
Focus Areas (2025):
- Anaemia Mukt Bharat and micronutrient awareness.
- Complementary feeding practices for infants and toddlers.
- Poshan-Vatika (nutri-gardens) for food security.
- Promotion of traditional and regional diets for sustainable nutrition.

[UPSC 2024] With reference to the ‘Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan’, consider the following statements:

1. This scheme guarantees a minimum package of antenatal care services to women in their second and third trimesters of pregnancy and six months post-delivery health care service in any government health facility.

2. Under this scheme, private sector health care providers of certain specialities can volunteer to provide services at nearby government health facilities.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only* (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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Pension Reforms

Unified Pension Scheme (UPS)

Schemes | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

Why in the News?

The Centre has approved the Unified Pension Scheme, starting Apr 2025, with NPS employees allowed to switch till Sept 30, 2025.

About Unified Pension Scheme (UPS):

Launch & Applicability: Announced in August 2024; implemented from 1 April 2025. Applicable to central govt employees who joined service after 1 January 2004 (those under NPS).
Nature: Hybrid pension system combining features of the assured benefit of OPS and the contributory model of NPS.
Assured Pension: 50% of the average basic pay drawn in the last 12 months before retirement, with minimum 25 years of service.
Minimum Pension: ₹10,000/month assured after 10 years of service.
Family Pension: 60% of pension last drawn, payable to spouse on retiree’s death.
Contributions: Employee contributes 10% of basic pay + Dearness Allowances (DA); govt contributes 10% + an additional 8.5% towards a pooled corpus.
Lump Sum at Retirement: 1/10th of last pay + DA for every completed six months of service, in addition to gratuity.
Inflation Indexation: DA-linked relief on pensions, tied to CPI-IW.
Flexibility: Employees may choose between NPS and UPS, but once shifted, re-entry into UPS is not allowed.

Difference between OPS, NPS and UPS:

	Old Pension Scheme (OPS)	National Pension System (NPS)	Unified Pension Scheme (UPS)
Type	Defined Benefit	Defined Contribution (market-linked)	Hybrid (Defined + Contribution)
Employee Contribution	None	10% of Basic + DA	10% of Basic + DA
Govt Contribution	Entire burden on govt	14% of Basic + DA	10% + 8.5% pooled corpus
Assured Pension	50% of last drawn pay + DA	None; depends on market returns	50% of avg. basic pay (last 12 months)
Minimum Pension	Not fixed, but effectively higher	None	₹10,000 after 10 years’ service
Family Pension	50% of pension last drawn	Depends on accumulated corpus	60% of pension last drawn
Lump Sum	Commutation of up to 40% pension (reduces monthly pension)	60% withdrawal of accumulated corpus at retirement	Lump sum = 1/10th of last pay + DA for every 6 months of service; pension unaffected
Indexation (DA link)	Full DA linked	Market-driven returns; no DA link	DA-linked inflation relief
Fiscal Burden	High, unfunded	Lower, market-based	Moderate (partially funded + assured)

[UPSC 2021] With reference to casual workers employed in India, consider the following statements:

1. All casual workers are entitled to Employees Provident Fund coverage.

2. All casual workers are entitled to regular working hours and overtime payment.

3. The government can, by notification, specify that an establishment or industry shall pay wages only through its bank account.

Which of the above statements are correct?

Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only* (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, and 3

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Electronic System Design and Manufacturing Sector – M-SIPS, National Policy on Electronics, etc.

PLI Scheme for White Goods

Prelims Only Schemes | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth

Why in the News?

The Centre has announced reopening of the application window for the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for White Goods, following the strong response and success of earlier rounds.

Note: White goods refer to large household appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners, so named because they were traditionally white.

About the PLI Scheme for White Goods:

Objective: To create a complete component ecosystem for ACs and LED lights, integrating India into global supply chains and boosting domestic manufacturing.
Approval: Cleared by the Union Cabinet in April 2021; implemented by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
Duration: Implemented over seven years (FY 2021–22 to FY 2028–29) with a total outlay of ₹6,238 crore.
Incentives: Provides 4–6% incentive on incremental turnover (over base year 2019–20) for both domestic sales and exports, applicable for five years to eligible companies.
Eligibility:
- Applicant must be a company incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013.
- Eligibility depends on achieving threshold levels of incremental sales and investments.
- Entities availing benefits under any other PLI scheme for the same products are not eligible.
Beneficiaries So Far: 83 companies with committed investment of ₹10,406 crore have been approved under the scheme, covering AC and LED components across the entire value chain.
Employment and Exports: Expected to create jobs, expand exports, and enhance self-reliance in components that were earlier imported.

[UPSC 2023] Consider the following statements:

Statement I: India accounts for 3.2% of global exports of goods.

Statement II: Many local companies and some foreign companies operating in India have taken advantage of India’s ‘Production-linked Incentive’ scheme.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

(a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I

(b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I

(d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct *

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Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

[pib] Gyan Bharatam Mission

Schemes | Art and Culture | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

Why in the News?

The Ministry of Culture has launched the ‘Gyan Bharatam’, a landmark national initiative dedicated to preserving, digitising, and disseminating India’s manuscript heritage.

About Gyan Bharatam Mission:

Launch: A national initiative by the Ministry of Culture to preserve, digitise, and disseminate India’s manuscript heritage.
Scheme Type: Approved as a Central Sector Scheme (2024–31) with an outlay of ₹482.85 crore.
Background: Builds on the National Mission for Manuscripts (2003), which documented 44.07 lakh manuscripts in the Kriti Sampada repository.
Vision: Integrates tradition with modern technology (AI, cloud systems, digital archives) to safeguard manuscripts as living knowledge resources.
Philosophy: Linked to PM’s Viksit Bharat @2047 vision, positioning India as Vishwa Guru by combining heritage with innovation.

Key Features:

Identification & Documentation: Establishment of Manuscript Resource Centres (MRCs) for systematic registration across India.
Conservation & Restoration: Strengthening Manuscript Conservation Centres (MCCs) for preventive and curative preservation using scientific techniques.
Digitisation & Repository: Large-scale digitisation with AI-based Handwritten Text Recognition (HTR), microfilming, and creation of a National Digital Repository accessible worldwide.
Youth & Public Engagement: Programs like Gyan-Setu AI Innovation Challenge to involve youth, start-ups, and researchers in heritage innovation.

[UPSC 2008] Recently, the manuscripts of which one of the following have been included in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register?

Options: (a) Abhidhamma Pitaka (b) Mahabharata (c) Ramayana (d) Rig Veda*

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Electronic System Design and Manufacturing Sector – M-SIPS, National Policy on Electronics, etc.

[pib] Incentive Scheme to Promote Critical Mineral Recycling

Schemes | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

Why in the News?

The Union Cabinet approved a ₹1,500 crore Incentive Scheme to promote recycling of critical minerals from secondary sources such as e-waste and battery scrap.

About Critical Mineral Recycling Incentive Scheme:

Launch: Approved under the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM).
Outlay: ₹1,500 crore over 6 years (FY 2025–26 to FY 2030–31).
Objective: Build domestic recycling capacity for critical minerals (lithium, cobalt, nickel, copper, rare earths) from secondary sources.
Rationale: Provides a near-term solution to supply chain challenges as mining projects require long lead times.
Targets:
- 270 kilotonnes annual recycling capacity.
- 40 kilotonnes minerals yield per year.
- ₹8,000 crore investment mobilised.
- ~70,000 jobs created.

Key Features:

Beneficiaries: Large recyclers, small/new recyclers, start-ups; one-third funds reserved for small/new entrants.
Feedstock Sources: E-waste, lithium-ion battery scrap, catalytic converters, other industrial scrap.
Coverage: Support for new units, as well as expansion, modernisation, and diversification of existing plants.
Capex Subsidy: 20% subsidy on plant & machinery for timely commissioning; reduced rates for delays.
Opex Subsidy: Tied to incremental sales over FY 2025–26 base year.
- 40% subsidy released in FY 2026–27.
- 60% subsidy released in FY 2030–31.
Incentive Caps:
- Large entities: ₹50 crore cap (₹10 crore max for opex).
- Small entities: ₹25 crore cap (₹5 crore max for opex).
Eligibility Restriction: Only for firms engaged in actual mineral extraction, not just intermediate “black mass” processing.

[UPSC 2021] Consider the following statements:

I. India has joined the Minerals Security Partnership as a member.

II. India is a resource-rich country in all the 30 critical minerals that it has identified.

III. The Parliament in 2023 has amended the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 empowering the Central Government to exclusively auction mining lease and composite license for certain critical minerals.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

Options: (a) I and II only (b) II and III only (c) I and III only* (d) I, II and III

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MGNREGA Scheme

20 Years of MGNREGS

Schemes | Social Justice | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

Why in the News?

On the 20th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005, concerns were raised over chronic underfunding of the scheme during the past decade.

About MGNREGS:

Overview: MGNREGS is a rights-based Centrally Sponsored Scheme launched under the MGNREGA Act of 2005 to ensure the Right to Work for rural households.
Origins:
- The idea of employment guarantee in India began with Maharashtra’s pilot, Employment Guarantee Scheme (MEGS), in 1965 under the Vasantrao Naik government.
- At the national level, the idea was first proposed in 1991 by then PM P. V. Narasimha Rao and later enacted in 2005.
Employment Guarantee: It provides 100 days of wage employment per year to any adult willing to do unskilled manual labour in rural India.
Legal Obligation: It is the first law in India that imposes a legal duty on the government to provide employment and compensate for non-compliance.
Development Goal: The scheme aims to promote livelihood security, inclusive growth, and rural development.

Key Features:

Statutory Right: Employment under MGNREGS is a legal entitlement, not just a welfare scheme.
Eligibility: Any rural adult aged 18 or above can apply and must be offered work within 15 days.
Proximity and Wages: Work must be provided within 5 km of the applicant’s residence with minimum wage, and delays attract compensation.
Unemployment Allowance: If work is not provided on time, the state must pay an allowance.
Demand-Driven Model: The scheme is worker-initiated, requiring the government to respond to demand.
Transparency and Audits: Regular social audits and online updates ensure accountability in job cards, muster rolls, and fund use.
Local Implementation: It is decentralised, led by Gram Panchayats, with support from block and state officials, and centrally funded.
Women’s Inclusion: At least one-third of beneficiaries must be women, enhancing gender equity.
Sustainable Assets: Projects focus on durable rural infrastructure like ponds, roads, canals, and plantations.

[UPSC 2006] Consider the following statements in respect of the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005:

1. The Act provides 100 days of employment to households as a fundamental right.

2. Women are given priority such that half of the employment seekers are women.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 *

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Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

[pib] Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS)

Schemes | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

Why in the News?

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) recently organized a national workshop on the e-SAKSHI web portal and mobile app for the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS).

About MPLADS:

Overview: A Central Sector Scheme, launched in 1993, to empower MPs to recommend developmental works in their constituencies, focusing on durable community assets addressing local needs.
Administration: Initially under the Ministry of Rural Development; Since 1994, managed by MoSPI.
Implementation:
- State-level nodal department supervises implementation.
- District authorities sanction projects, release funds, and ensure execution.
Funding:
- Each MP gets ₹5 crore per year (since 2011–12).
- Disbursed by MoSPI in two instalments of ₹2.5 crore each to district authorities.
- Funds are non-lapsable i.e. carried forward if unutilized.
Targeted Allocation: Minimum 15% for SCs and 7.5% for STs.
Special Provisions:
- Up to ₹25 lakh annually can be spent outside constituency/state for national unity projects.
- Up to ₹1 crore can be allocated nationwide during severe natural calamities.
Eligible Projects:
- Durable community assets (e.g., libraries, community halls, ambulances, sports infrastructure, sanitation).
- MPLADS funds can be converged with MGNREGS or integrated with Khelo India for asset creation.
- Support allowed on lands of registered societies/trusts (3+ years old) engaged in welfare work.
- Prohibited for societies/trusts where the MP/family are office-bearers.
Transparency Measures:
- Plaque with MP’s name and project details must be installed at project sites.
- Project details listed in district offices, MPLADS website, and accessible via RTI.
Monitoring & Audit:
- District authorities inspect at least 10% of projects annually.
- Funds audited by statutory auditors.
- Regular review meetings at state and central levels.
e-SAKSHI platform: Enables MPs to digitally recommend, monitor, and track MPLADS projects, improving transparency, accountability, and efficiency in fund utilization.

[UPSC 2020] With reference to the funds under Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS), which of the following statements are correct?

1. MPLADS funds must be used to create durable assets like physical infrastructure for health, education, etc.

2. A specified portion of each MP’s ‘fund must benefit SC/ST populations.

3. MPLADS funds are sanctioned on yearly basis and the unused funds cannot be carried forward to the next year.

4. The district authority must inspect at least 10% of all works under implementation every year.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 and 4 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 4 only*

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Primary and Secondary Education – RTE, Education Policy, SEQI, RMSA, Committee Reports, etc.

In news: Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan

Schemes | Indian Society | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

Why in the News?

The Supreme Court intervened after Tamil Nadu faced ₹3,000+ crore reimbursements to private schools for economically disadvantaged students’ admissions, as the Centre declined to share costs under Samagra Shiksha.

About Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan:

Launch & Integration: Started in 2018 (by then Ministry of HRD), integrating Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA), and Teacher Education (TE) into one holistic programme.
Benchmark Feature: Treats schooling as a continuous system from pre-primary to Class XII (ages 4–18), removing silos.
Funding Pattern: A Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) with Centre–State sharing (60:40, 90:10 for NE/hilly states), implemented via a single State Implementation Society (SIS).
Policy Alignment: Aligned with NEP 2020 and UN SDG-4 (quality education).
Coverage: 1.16 million schools, 156+ million students, 5.7 million teachers across government & aided institutions.
Upgraded Phase: Samagra Shiksha 2.0 (2021–26) with focus on digital education, vocational training, FLN, and inclusion.

Key Features of the Scheme:

Unified Structure: One umbrella for pre-primary to Class XII, ensuring coherent planning.
Teachers & Technology:
- Continuous teacher training via SCERTs, DIETs, NISHTHA, SWAYAM.
- Digital initiatives: DIKSHA, Operation Digital Board, ICT labs, smart classrooms, AI-based learning tools.
Foundational Literacy & Numeracy: NIPUN Bharat Mission (ages 3–9) for universal reading & numeracy.
Vocational & Skill Education: Subjects like coding, robotics, financial literacy, AI with 1000+ training centres (from Class VI).
Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT): Uniforms, textbooks, transport allowance directly credited via IT platforms.
Holistic Development: Integration of sports, physical education, self-defence, soft skills under Khelo India.
Funding Scale: Allocation crossed ₹41,000 crore (2025); nationwide coverage till March 2026 under Samagra Shiksha 2.0.

[UPSC 2017] What is the aim of the programme ‘Unnat Bharat Abhiyan’?

Options: (a) Achieving 100% literacy by promoting collaboration between voluntary organizations and government’s education system and local communities.

(b) Connecting institutions of higher education with local communities to address development challenges through appropriate technologies. *

(d) Developing human capital by allocating special funds for health-care and education of rural and urban poor, and organizing skill development programmes and vocational training for them.

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Microfinance Story of India

PM SVANidhi Scheme extended until 2030

Schemes | Economics | Mains Paper 3: issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources

Why in the News?

The Union Cabinet has approved the restructuring and extension of the Prime Minister Street Vendor’s Atmanirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme.

About PM SVANidhi Scheme:

Launch: June 1, 2020, as Central Sector Scheme fully funded by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
Purpose: To provide affordable credit to street vendors hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic and help them restart/expand their businesses.
Target Group: Urban street vendors in statutory towns and peri-urban/rural areas.
Extension: Restructured and extended up to March 31, 2030.
Beneficiaries: 1.15 crore vendors, including 50 lakh new ones.

Key Features:

Collateral-free Loans (incremental):
- 1st tranche: ₹15,000 (earlier ₹10,000).
- 2nd tranche: ₹25,000 (earlier ₹20,000).
- 3rd tranche: ₹50,000.
Digital Empowerment:
- Timely 2nd loan repayment → eligibility for UPI-linked RuPay Credit Card (for emergent business/personal needs).
- Digital cashback incentives up to ₹1,600 on retail & wholesale transactions.
Capacity Building:
- Training in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, digital skills, and marketing.
- Food safety & hygiene training for street food vendors (with FSSAI partnership).
Implementation:
- Jointly by MoHUA & Department of Financial Services (DFS).
- DFS facilitates loans & credit cards through banks/financial institutions.
Wider Goals:
- Promote financial inclusion & digital adoption.
- Enable vendors’ business expansion & sustainable growth.
- Contribute to inclusive urban economic development.

[UPSC 2011] Microfinance is the provision of financial services to people of low-income groups. This includes both the consumers and the self-employed. The service/services rendered under microfinance is/are:

1. Credit facilities 2. Savings facilities 3. Insurance facilities 4. Fund Transfer facilities

Options: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 4 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4*

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Financial Inclusion in India and Its Challenges

23% of PM Jan Dhan accounts inoperative

Schemes | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Inclusive Growth & Issues

Why in the news?

The Government informed Parliament that 23% of the 56.04 crore PM Jan Dhan Yojana accounts are inoperative.

About Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY):

Launch: Introduced in 2014 as the world’s largest financial inclusion mission.
Objective: To provide banking to the unbanked, insurance to the unsecured, and credit to the unfunded.
Accounts: Basic Savings Bank Deposit (BSBD) accounts with zero balance, minimal paperwork, and e-KYC facility.
Benefits: RuPay debit card with accident insurance, overdraft, micro-insurance, and pension coverage.

Key Features:

Access: Universal banking through branches and Business Correspondents.
Overdraft: Up to ₹10,000 for eligible account holders.
Insurance: Accident cover of ₹1 lakh (₹2 lakh for new accounts post-2018); life cover of ₹30,000 for accounts opened between August 2014–January 2015.
Interoperability: Enabled via RuPay cards and Aadhaar-linked platforms.
Post-2018 Expansion: Coverage extended to all unbanked adults, overdraft limit enhanced, and eligibility age increased from 60 to 65 years.
Direct Benefit Transfers: Strengthened subsidy delivery through the JAM Trinity (Jan Dhan–Aadhaar–Mobile).

Do you know?

As per the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines (2009), an account is considered dormant if no transaction occurs for over two years.

[UPSC 2015] Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana’ has been launched for

Options:

(a) providing housing loan to poor people at cheaper interest rates

(b) promoting women’s Self-Help Groups in backward areas

(d) providing financial help to the marginalized communities

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Higher Education – RUSA, NIRF, HEFA, etc.

Government approves MERITE Scheme

Schemes | Indian Society | Mains Paper 2: Schemes For Vulnerable Sections

Why in the News?

The Union Cabinet has approved the Multidisciplinary Education and Research Improvement in Technical Education (MERITE) Scheme for implementation in 275 technical institutions across India.

About MERITE Scheme:

Objective: Enhance quality, equity, and governance in technical education across all States and Union Territories, aligned with National Education Policy 2020.
Funding: Central Sector Scheme with ₹4,200 crore outlay (2025–26 to 2029–30), including ₹2,100 crore as World Bank loan.
Beneficiaries: About 7.5 lakh students; aims to boost institutional capacity in technical education.
Collaborations: Works with Indian Institutes of Technology, Indian Institutes of Management, All India Council for Technical Education, and National Board of Accreditation for implementation support.

Key Features:

Institutional Coverage: Includes National Institutes of Technology, State Engineering Colleges, Polytechnics, and Affiliating Technical Universities.
Fund Transfer: Direct funding from a Central Nodal Agency to institutions.
Academic Focus: Multidisciplinary programs, updated curriculum, faculty training.
Gender Inclusion: Special programs for women faculty and reducing gender disparity.
Skill Alignment: Launch of labour market-oriented courses and blended learning models.

[UPSC 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?

Options: (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only* (d) 1, 2 and 3

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Higher Education – RUSA, NIRF, HEFA, etc.

Setubandha Scholar Scheme

Schemes | Social Justice | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education
Why in the News?

The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Division at Central Sanskrit University, has launched the Setubandha Scholarship Scheme.

About the Setubandha Scholarship Scheme:
- Objective: Acts as a bridge between traditional Gurukul learning and modern research, enabling the mainstreaming of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) into higher education.
- Target Group: Students trained under Gurus or in Gurukul systems for a minimum of 5 years.
- Focus: Encourages postgraduate and doctoral research across disciplines rooted in IKS.
- Institutions Involved: Provides access to mentorship and research facilities at top institutions like Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs).
Key Features:
- Financial Support:
  - Postgraduate Scholars: Up to ₹1 lakh.
  - PhD Candidates: Up to ₹2 lakh.
  - Monthly Scholarships: Starting from ₹40,000.
- Eligibility:
  - Age limit: Below 32 years.
  - Minimum 5 years of Gurukul-based learning.
  - No formal degree required—classical knowledge proficiency is the key criterion.
- Scope of Research:
  - Supports 18 disciplines rooted in IKS, including:
    
    Vedic philosophy, Jyotisha, Ayurveda, Rasa Shastra
    
    Vastu Shastra, Dandaniti (political science), Indian arts and education
    
    Traditional law, linguistics, agriculture, and astronomy
- Broader Impact:
  - Fosters integration of ancient wisdom with modern scientific inquiry.
  - Recognizes and rewards excellence in traditional systems of knowledge.
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Railway Reforms

Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS)

Schemes | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

Why in the News?

PM recently stated that 77 stations in Tamil Nadu are being redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS), positioning the state as a hub for railway transformation.

About the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS):

Launch: 2022 by the Ministry of Railways.
Goal: Modernise and develop railway stations through phased, long-term upgrades.
Master Plans: Each station gets a tailored roadmap for future improvements.
Focus Areas: Multimodal integration, seamless passenger movement, and upgraded amenities.
National Significance: Integral to India’s infrastructure push under the Viksit Bharat vision.

Key Features of ABSS:

Passenger Comfort: Larger waiting halls, clean toilets, executive lounges, lifts, escalators, free Wi-Fi, and business-meeting zones.
Accessibility & Connectivity: Expanded circulating areas, barrier-free access for persons with disabilities, and smooth links to other transport modes.
Aesthetic Upgrades: Modern façades, clear signage, landscaping, and consistently clean premises.
Technology & Information: Digital displays, real-time train info, and self-service e-ticketing kiosks.
Sustainability: Energy-efficient systems, green-building elements, and water-conservation measures.
Customised Development: Station facilities scaled to local footfall and needs—no one-size-fits-all approach.

[UPSC 2024] Consider the following statements:

I. Indian Railways have prepared a National Rail Plan (NRP) to create a future ready railway system by 2028. II. ‘Kavach’ is an Automatic Train Protection system developed in collaboration with Germany. III. ‘Kavach’ system consists of RFID tags fitted on track in station section.

Which of the statements given above are not correct?

(a) I and II only (b) II and III only (c) I and III only (d) I, II and III*

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Judicial Reforms

Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana

Prelims Only Schemes | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Statutory, Regulatory & Various Quasi-Judicial Bodies

Why in the News?

The National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) has launched the ‘Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana’, aimed at improving legal aid for defence personnel and their families.

Back2Basics: National Legal Services Authority (NALSA)

Established under: Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 (in force from 1995)
Mandate: Ensure free, competent legal aid to the socially and economically disadvantaged
Leadership:
- Patron-in-Chief: Chief Justice of India
- Executive Chairman: Senior Supreme Court Judge
Core Functions:

- Legal literacy campaigns
- Lok Adalats for amicable dispute resolution
- Legal aid in civil and criminal matters
- Outreach in rural and vulnerable communities

About Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana:

Launched by: National Legal Services Authority (NALSA).
Objective: Provide legal assistance to defence personnel, ex-servicemen, and their families.

Key Features:

- Legal Clinics: Set up at Zilla, Rajya, and Kendra Sainik Boards
- Welfare–Legal Integration: Sainik Boards become legal service hubs
- Paralegal Volunteers: Defence families encouraged to participate, enhancing local legal access

Legal Assistance includes:

- Land and property disputes
- Matrimonial and family matters
- Service-related entitlements
- Utility/civil grievances (e.g., billing disputes)
- Support for personnel in remote/conflict zones

Free Legal Aid in India:

Constitutional Backing

- Article 21 (FR): Access to justice as part of the right to life
- Article 39A (DPSP): Legal aid and equal justice, added via 42nd Amendment Act, 1976

Legal Framework:

- Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987: Four-tier system—National, State, District, Taluka
- Section 341, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023: Legal aid for indigent accused persons

Eligibility Criteria:

- Women and children
- Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes
- Persons with disabilities
- Industrial workmen
- Victims of disasters (natural or human-made)
- Persons in custody or shelter homes
- Economically weak (annual income:
  - Below ₹1 lakh generally
  - Below ₹5 lakh for Supreme Court cases)

[UPSC 2020] In India, Legal Services Authorities provide free legal services to which of the following type of citizens?

1. Person with an annual income of less than Rs 1,00,000

2. Transgender with an annual income of less than Rs 2,00,000

3. Member of Other Backward Classes (OBC) with an annual income of less than ₹ 3,00,000

4. All Senior Citizens

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Options: (a) 1 and 2 only * (b) 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1 and 4 only

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Labour, Jobs and Employment – Harmonization of labour laws, gender gap, unemployment, etc.

[pib] PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY)

Schemes | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

Why in the News?

The Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme has been officially launched as the PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY), effective from 1st August 2025.

About PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY):

Objective: Promote formal employment and inclusive job creation.
Outlay: ₹99,446 crore (Aug 2025 – July 2027).
Aim: 3.5 crore new jobs, including 1.92 crore first-time entrants into the workforce.
Focus: Expanding EPFO coverage and supporting Viksit Bharat vision.
Sectoral Coverage: Open to all sectors, with special focus on manufacturing for long-term growth.

PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY)

Key Features:

Incentives for Employees

- Eligible: First-time EPFO-registered workers earning ≤ ₹1 lakh/month.
- Benefit: 1-month EPF wage (max ₹15,000) in two parts — after 6 and 12 months.
- Condition: Completion of a financial literacy programme; Part of the amount is locked in a savings scheme.

Incentives for Employers

- Applies to: New hires with salary ≤ ₹1 lakh/month.
- Minimum hires: 2 (if firm <50 employees), 5 (if ≥50).

Incentive per employee/month:

- ₹1,000 (wages ≤ ₹10,000)
- ₹2,000 (₹10,001–₹20,000)
- ₹3,000 (₹20,001–₹1 lakh)
Manufacturing sector: Extended benefits for 3rd & 4th years.

Payment Mechanism

To employees: Direct Benefit Transfer via Aadhaar-based system.
To employers: Paid to PAN-linked bank accounts.

[UPSC 2024] With reference to the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM) Yojana, consider the following statements:

1. The entry age group for enrolment in the scheme is 21 to 40 years

2. Age specific contribution shall be made by the beneficiary

3. Each subscriber under the scheme shall receive a minimum pension of ₹ 3,000 per month after attaining the age of 60 years

4. Family pension is applicable to the spouse and unmarried daughters

Options: (a) 1 and 4 (b) 2 and 3* (c) 2 only (d) 1,2 and 4

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Civil Services Reforms

[pib] PRATIBHA Setu Initiative

Prelims Only Schemes | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Civil Service

Why in the News?

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has launched the PRATIBHA Setu initiative to channel the potential of civil service aspirants who reach the interview stage but do not make the final merit list.

About PRATIBHA Setu:

Meaning: Stands for Professional Resource And Talent Integration – Bridge for Hiring Aspirants.
Purpose: Connects candidates who cleared the interview stage of Union Public Service Commission exams but didn’t make the final merit list with verified employers.
Launch: Rolled out during CSE Examination 2023 results; evolved from the Public Disclosure Scheme (2018).
Objective: Utilizes the Union Public Service Commission’s rigorous selection process to support alternate career pathways for high-performing aspirants.
Talent Pool:
- Scale: Over 10,000 high-performing candidates available for recruitment.
- Merit-Based: Offers employers access to a pre-tested, well-evaluated talent group.

Key Features:

Eligibility:
- Included: Civil Services, Indian Forest Service, Engineering Services, Central Armed Police Forces, Combined Medical Services, etc.
- Excluded: National Defence Academy, Naval Academy, and certain Limited Departmental Competitive Examinations.
Access for Recruiters: Organizations register using Corporate Identification Number through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs portal.
Platform Tools:
- Functions: Dashboard for shortlisting, wish-listing, and making selections or rejections.
- Data Access: Employers can view candidates’ educational profiles and contact details in digital format.

Impact:

Candidate Benefit: Opens alternate career paths for deserving UPSC aspirants.
Employer Advantage: Enables transparent and efficient hiring from India’s top talent.
Wider Utility: Extends the relevance of the UPSC selection process beyond final appointments.

[UPSC 2020] In the context of India, which one of the following is the characteristic appropriate for bureaucracy?

Options: (a) An agency for widening the scope of parliamentary democracy (b) An agency for strengthening the structure of federalism (c) An agency for facilitating political stability and economic growth (d) An agency for the implementation of public policy*

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Agricultural Sector and Marketing Reforms – eNAM, Model APMC Act, Eco Survey Reco, etc.

Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana

Prelims Only Schemes | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Agriculture and related issues

Why in the News?

The Union Cabinet has approved the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY), aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity, promoting sustainable practices, and improving rural livelihoods.

Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana

About Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY)

Objective: Aims to transform agriculture in 100 low-performing districts by addressing productivity gaps.
Inspiration: Modelled on NITI Aayog’s Aspirational Districts Programme; first scheme focused solely on agriculture and allied sectors.
Launch: Announced in Union Budget 2025–26 and approved by the Union Cabinet chaired by PM Narendra Modi.
Approach: Driven by convergence of schemes, collaboration across stakeholders, and healthy competition among districts.

Key Features:

Scheme Integration: Merges 36 schemes from 11 ministries into one unified framework.
Budget & Duration: ₹24,000 crore annual outlay for six years (starting 2025–26).
District Selection:
- 100 districts with low productivity, cropping intensity, and credit access
- At least one district from each state/UT
Focus Areas:
- Boosting productivity
- Promoting crop diversification and sustainability
- Improving irrigation and water efficiency
- Expanding post-harvest storage
- Enhancing credit access
Performance Monitoring: Monthly ranking on 117 Key Performance Indicators (KPI) via centralized dashboard.
Support Mechanism: NITI Aayog to provide capacity-building and reviews.
Expert Note: Credit-based selection criteria may require refinement.

Implementation:

District Planning: Each district to prepare an Agriculture and Allied Activities Plan.
Plan Approval: Handled by District Dhan Dhaanya Samiti, chaired by the Collector and including progressive farmers.
National Alignment:
- Agricultural self-sufficiency
- Soil and water conservation
- Promotion of organic/natural farming
Governance: Committees at district, state, and national levels to guide execution.
Monitoring: Central Nodal Officers (CNOs) to conduct field visits and track progress.
Technical Support: Agricultural universities to serve as knowledge partners.
Expected Outcomes: Boost farm income, create local livelihoods, and support Atmanirbhar Bharat through enhanced agri-productivity.

[UPSC 2020] Under the Kisan Credit Card scheme, short-term credit support is given to farmers for which of the following purposes?

1. Working capital for maintenance of farm assets

2. Purchase of combine harvesters, tractors and mini truck

3. Consumption requirements of farm households

4. Post-harvest expenses

5. 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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Policy Wise: India’s Power Sector

ADEETIE Scheme

Schemes | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

Why in the News?

The Union Ministry of Power has launched a new national scheme — Assistance in Deploying Energy Efficient Technologies in Industries & Establishments (ADEETIE).

About ADEETIE Scheme:

Launch: It was launched by the Ministry of Power through the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE).
Objective: It aims to promote energy efficiency in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to cut energy consumption, reduce emissions, and enhance competitiveness.
Background: It builds upon successful state-level pilots, such as decarbonisation projects in Andhra Pradesh’s MSME clusters.
Climate Alignment: It supports India’s climate goals, including 45% emission intensity reduction by 2030 and achieving Net Zero by 2070.
Budget Allocation: The scheme has a dedicated budget of ₹1,000 crore, with a focus on MSMEs, EXCLUDING large enterprises.

Key Features of ADEETIE Scheme:

Interest Subsidy Support: MSMEs adopting energy-efficient tech will receive interest subsidies on loans:
- 5% for small enterprises
- 3% for medium enterprises
Digital Portal Utility: The platform acts as a one-stop portal for financing, project development, and knowledge sharing on energy-efficient solutions.
Supported Technologies: It promotes adoption of cutting-edge clean technologies, including:
- Automation and digital control systems
- Combustion control systems for boilers
- Methane capture technology
- Air-dyeing in textiles
Collaboration: It fosters industry partnerships through MoUs with major MSME associations.
Legal Backing: It aligns with the Energy Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2022, which enables carbon markets and mandates clean energy usage.

[UPSC 2016] On which of the following can you find the Bureau of Energy Efficiency Star Label?

1. Ceiling fans

2. Electric geysers

3. Tubular fluorescent lamps

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3*

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Type: Schemes

Why in the News?

What is Clean Plant Programme (CPP)?

Key Features:

On-Ground Progress:

Why in the News?

About PM MITRA Scheme:

Key Features and Benefits:

Why in the News?

About Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan (SNSPA):

What is Rashtriya Poshan Maah?

Why in the News?

About Unified Pension Scheme (UPS):

Difference between OPS, NPS and UPS:

Why in the News?

About the PLI Scheme for White Goods:

Why in the News?

About Gyan Bharatam Mission:

Key Features:

Why in the News?

About Critical Mineral Recycling Incentive Scheme:

Key Features:

Why in the News?

About MGNREGS:

Key Features:

Why in the News?

About MPLADS:

Why in the News?

About Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan:

Key Features of the Scheme:

Why in the News?

About PM SVANidhi Scheme:

Key Features:

Why in the news?

About Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY):

Key Features:

Do you know?

Why in the News?

About MERITE Scheme:

Key Features:

Why in the News?

About the Setubandha Scholarship Scheme:

Key Features:

Why in the News?

About the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS):

Key Features of ABSS:

Why in the News?

Back2Basics: National Legal Services Authority (NALSA)

About Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana:

Free Legal Aid in India:

Why in the News?

About PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY):

Key Features:

Why in the News?

About PRATIBHA Setu:

Key Features:

Impact:

Why in the News?

About Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY)

Key Features:

Implementation:

Why in the News?

About ADEETIE Scheme:

Key Features of ADEETIE Scheme:

About the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS):