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The Year 2023 marks the beginning of ‘Amrit Kaal’ - the 25-year period beginning from the 75th anniversary of its independence on 15th August 2022, leading up to the centenary of its Independence, towards a futuristic, prosperous, inclusive and developed society, distinguished by a human-centric approach at its core. India continues to be one of the fastest-growing economies of the world. The country's second quarter growth, 7.6 per cent, has been then highest in the world and India's GDP growth for the April-June quarter was 7.8 per cent. Putting into effect the roadmap for making India a $5 trillion economy, the…
01 February, 2024
Government policies and interventions
On the sidelines of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, PM interacted with prominent business leaders in the Global FinTech Leadership Forum at GIFT city in Gujarat recently. The Global Fintech Forum is a space for shareholders, customers, and participants to share experiences and experiment.
29 January, 2024
Government policies and interventions
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has recently released “The Detect Adulteration with Rapid Test (DART) Book” & Food Safety on Wheels (FSW). DART booklet is a compilation of common quick tests for detection of food adulterants by the citizens themselves so as to induce awareness among the consumers about food safety. A mobile food testing van called Food Safety on Wheels (FSW) was launched to reach remote areas and conduct training and awareness activities & to promote awareness campaigns.
24 January, 2024
Government policies and interventions
Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare inaugurates the country’s 1st Healthy & Hygienic Food Street, 'PRASADAM,' in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. The street will serve traditional dishes made of coarse grains like rajgira, sanwa, kuttu, ragi, dal-baffle, and more.
21 January, 2024
Government policies and interventions
The Himachal Pradesh government made 2 major decisions recently. All government offices have been prohibited from purchasing petrol or diesel vehicles since January 1. Simultaneously, under another scheme, people will be paid Rs 20,000 per month if they donate 3 bighas of land for the construction of a solar power plant. These decisions have been taken to make Himachal Pradesh a clean and green energy state by March 31, 2026.
15 January, 2024
Government policies and interventions
It is the apex executive body for the formulation and administration of rules, regulations and laws relating to MSMEs in India.MSME sector has emerged as a highly vibrant and dynamic sector of the Indian economy, fostering entrepreneurship and self-employment opportunities at comparatively lower capital cost, next only to agriculture. Union minister- Shri Narayan Rane Key Initiatives/ Schemes Micro Small and Medium Enterprise Development Act (MSMED Act) 2006 Aim- To facilitate the promotion and development and enhance the competitiveness of MSMEs. MSME definition- A revision was announced in Atmanirbhar Bharat package in 2020. Classification Investment in Plant and Machinery or Equipment Annual turnover Micro…
14 January, 2024
Government policies and interventions
SVAMITVA Scheme wins Best Innovation Award for Innovation Sandbox presentation during Public Policy Dialogues–2024 at Indian School of Business, Hyderabad. Initiative by - It is a collaborative effort of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, State Panchayati Raj Departments, State Revenue Departments and Survey of India. Launch - It is a Central Sector Scheme, launched in the year 2021. Aim - It is a scheme for mapping the land parcels in rural inhabited areas using drone technology and Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS). To provide an integrated property validation solution for rural India. SVAMITVA Property Cards - They facilitate monetization of properties, enabling bank loans…
11 January, 2024
Government policies and interventions
Defence Ministry recently has extended the rules for maternity, child care and child adoption leaves for women soldiers, sailors and air warriors in the tri-services. It will entitle women soldiers, sailors and air warriors to the same maternity, childcare and child adoption leaves as female officers in the three services.
30 December, 2023
Government policies and interventions
Aim – It is a single point platform for online processing of land acquisition notifications to accelerate highway infrastructure development projects in India. Ministry - Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
27 December, 2023
Government policies and interventions
PM inaugurates Surat Diamond Bourse in Gujarat recently. It is world’s largest and modern centre for international diamond and jewellery business and is part of the Diamond Research and Mercantile (DREAM) City. It will be a global centre for trading of both rough and polished diamonds as well as jewellery.
23 December, 2023
Government policies and interventions
WISE-KIRAN is a program from the Department of Science and Technology (DST). The scheme's goal is to increase women's participation in science and technology (S&T) and achieve gender parity.
18 December, 2023
Government policies and interventions
Operation Jeevan Raksha To protect the lives of passengers, who had accidently fallen while deboarding or boarding. Operation Yatri Suraksha To improve the security of passengers traveling by Indian Railways. Operation NARCOS It is pan-India drive against smuggling of Narcotics through Rail. Operation Uplabdh To curb the illegal sale of railway tickets. Operation Sanraksha To enhance the safety of passengers. Operation Seva To assist those who (elderly citizens, women, physically disabled and sick/injured persons) in need in their travel. Operation Satark To stop the transportation of illegal items through railway networks. Operation AAHT To curb Anti-Human Trafficking Efforts.
07 December, 2023
Government policies and interventions
It is India’s premium Cotton in the world cotton Trade. It is a joint initiative by the Ministry of Textiles, the Cotton Corporation of India, Trade Bodies & Industry. The Cotton Textiles Export Promotion Council (TEXPROCIL) has been designated as the implementing agency for Traceability, Certification and Branding of "KASTURI Cotton India". India is the 2nd largest cotton producer and the largest consumer of cotton in the world.
30 November, 2023
Government policies and interventions
The Union Government has decided to rename the existing Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs) as ‘Ayushman Arogya Mandir’ The new tag line will be Arogyam Parmam Dhanam. National Health Policy, 2017 envisioned the Health and Wellness Centres.
26 November, 2023
Government policies and interventions
Union Minister for Cooperation has recently launched the ‘Bharat Organics’ brand of National Cooperative Organics Ltd (NCOL). 6 products under the 'Bharat Organics' brand were tur dal, chana dal, sugar, rajma, basmati rice, and Sonamasoori rice. About 50% of profits from the sale of organic products through NCOL will be transferred directly to member farmers.
20 November, 2023
Government policies and interventions
Historical Evolution of the OBC Reservation Status in India? The journey began with the establishment of the Kalelkar Commission in 1953, which marked the first instance of recognizing backward classes beyond the Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) on a national level. In 1980, the Mandal Commission Report estimated that the OBC population constituted 52% and identified 1,257 communities as backward. To address the inequity, it suggested an increase in the existing quotas (which were previously applicable only to SC/ST) from 22.5% to 49.5%, extending the reservation to include OBCs. Following these recommendations, the central government implemented the reservation policy, reserving 27% of seats in union civil posts and services for OBCs under Article…
01 November, 2023
Government policies and interventions
Scheme for Trade Infrastructure for Export The Trade Infrastructure for Export Program (TIES), launched by the Department of Commerce, Government of India, aims to provide the necessary infrastructure to support the expansion of exports. What are the main government initiatives to encourage the growth of exports? TIES System: The TIES scheme offers financial assistance to central/state government-owned organisations or their joint ventures for infrastructure projects with substantial export ties. Border Haats, Land Customs Stations, Labs for Quality Testing and Certification, Cold Chains, Trade Promotion Centers, Export Warehousing and Packaging, Special Economic Zones, and Ports/Airports Cargo Terminuses are all part of…
29 March, 2023
Government policies and interventions
Grameen Udyami Project A total of 200 tribal women received certificates for completing Phase 3 of the Project's skills training. Speaking at the Grameen Udyami Project's felicitation program in Gumla , Jharkhand, Union Minister of State for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Electronics & IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, described skilling as a gateway to opportunity and said the government's goal has been to ensure skill opportunities for all in every remote corner of the country. About the Grameen Udyami project: In order to increase skill training in tribal communities for their inclusive and sustainable progress, the Grameen Udyami Scheme was established.…
21 January, 2023
Government policies and interventions
Digital Payment In India The Union Government has set aside 2,600 crores as an incentive for banks to promote digital payments. About UPI: The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) provides a simple way to move money from one bank account to another. It has grown in popularity since its debut in 2016. UPI now accounts for more than 40% of all retail digital payments (non-cash and non-paper payments) in India. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) operates the UPI, which was established in 2016. It's a solution that integrates various bank accounts into a single mobile app. The Reserve Bank…
12 January, 2023
Government policies and interventions
National Geospatial Policy 2022 The National Geospatial Policy 2022 was unveiled by the Ministry of Science and Technology in order to establish India as a world leader in the geospatial industry. With a growth rate of 12.8%, India's geospatial economy is predicted to reach Rs 63,000 crore by 2025 and employ more than 10 lakh people. Geospatial technology: What is it? The term "geospatial technology" is used to describe a wide range of modern tools that aid in mapping and analyzing the Earth's geography and human societies. These technologies have been evolving since the first maps were drawn in the…
07 January, 2023
Government policies and interventions
Online Gaming Draft Rules The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) recently suggested a change to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, to include online gaming. Regarding Draft Rules: According to the proposed regulations, online gaming organizations will not be permitted to place bets on the results of games. Mandatory know-your-customer (KYC) criteria for verification. The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, have been amended by the proposed rules. These guidelines were created to protect consumers from any potential harm from skill-based games. Online games must register with…
04 January, 2023
Government policies and interventions
India's pension system as per Global Pension Index The Indian pension system was recently ranked 41st out of 44 countries in the Global Pension Index. About the Global Pension Index: A ranking system for pension plans around the globe is done by the Mercer CFA Institute and is known as the Global Pension Index. What is tracked by this index? The index acknowledges that comparing pension systems around the world is neither simple nor straightforward. Population requirements, economic growth, government revenue, regulatory maturity, and the growth of the private market are all different. Three factors are used to rank countries…
22 December, 2022
Government policies and interventions
Vocational Education to the youth Under the auspices of the centrally sponsored Samagra Shiksha scheme, the Department of School Education and Literacy is carrying out the endeavor to vocationalize school education. Aim of the scheme: The programme aims to combine general academic instruction with vocational education in all secondary and senior secondary schools, It will also improve the students' employability and entrepreneurial skills, it will also expose them to the workplace, and increase student awareness of various career options so they can make a decision in line with their aptitude, competence, and aspirations. Steps taken by the government: The Samagra…
19 December, 2022
Government policies and interventions
MAARG PORTAL A recent call for startup applications for registration on the Mentorship, Advisory, Assistance, Resilience, and Growth (MAARG) portal has been issued by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry. About The MAARG Portal: The National Mentorship Platform by Startup India is the MAARG platform. It is a one-stop platform that enables mentorship for entrepreneurs in a variety of industries, roles, stages, locations, and backgrounds. Key characteristics: programs for ecosystem enablers to receive mentoring responsive user interface Gratitude for valuable mentors options for voice and video calls Three steps make to…
02 December, 2022
Government policies and interventions
Eat Right Station Certification Bhopal Railway Station was recently awarded a 4-star 'Eat Right Station' certification for providing passengers with high-quality, nutritious food. The 4-star rating indicates that the station is fully compliant in providing safe and sanitary food to passengers. What is the 'Eat Right Station' Certification? The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) awards the 'Eat Right Station' certification to railway stations that set standards in providing safe and wholesome food to passengers. Following the completion of an FSSAI-appointed third-party audit with ratings ranging from 1 to 5, the station is awarded a certificate. The certification…
17 November, 2022
Government policies and interventions
National Press Day Every year on November 16th, India celebrates National Press Day to commemorate the establishment of the Press Council of India. About India's Press Council It was founded in 1966 under the Indian Press Council Act, 1965, on the recommendations of the first Press Commission, with the dual goal of preserving press freedom and improving the standards of newspapers and news agencies in India. It was re-established as a quasi-judicial autonomous authority in 1979 by an Act of Parliament, the Press Council Act of 1978. In its duty to protect the press's independence, the Press Council of India…
16 November, 2022
Government policies and interventions
Explained: Self Reliant India The Prime Minister recently emphasised the importance of promoting indigenous products and self-sufficiency. More on the news Self-sufficiency:Promoting indigenous products and self-sufficiency is important for prosperity, and by adopting them, one can keep India's traditional art, culture, and civilisation alive. About Vijay Vallabh Surishwar, a Jain saint: The Prime Minister was speaking at a gathering to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Jain saint Vijay Vallabh Surishwar. The Union Culture Ministry organised the event. A commemorative postage stamp and coin honouring Acharya Surishwar were also released as part of the celebration. Historical significance: The Prime Minister…
27 October, 2022
Government policies and interventions
Global Innovation Index 2022 India was recently ranked 40th out of 132 in the World Intellectual Property Organization's Global Innovation Index (GII) 2022 rankings (WIPO). In 2021, India was ranked 46th, up from 81st in 2015. What are the Report's Highlights? Countries are ranked as follows: For the 12th year in a row, Switzerland is the most innovative economy in the world in 2022, followed by the United States, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands. China is closing in on the top 10, while Turkey and India break into the top 40 for the first time. India's performance: India…
01 October, 2022
Government policies and interventions
International Year of Millets 2023 In preparation for the International Year of Millets in 2023, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has planned a number of pre-launch activities and initiatives to raise awareness and encourage involvement in the nation about the illustrious but long-forgotten golden grains. Numerous initiatives were introduced, including "India's Wealth, Millets for Health," the Millet Startup Innovation Challenge, the Mighty Millets Quiz, a contest for logos and catchphrases, etc. ??????? Describe IYM. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) supported India's request to mark an International Year of Millets in 2023 in 2018, and the United Nations…
24 September, 2022
Government policies and interventions
PM Promotion of Alternate Nutrients for Agriculture Management (PRANAM) Yojana The Union government plans to implement a program called PM PRANAM to encourage states to use less chemical fertiliser. Important Points: The goal is to reduce the cost of subsidies for chemical fertilisers, which is projected to increase by 39% to Rs 2.25 lakh crore by 2022–23 from Rs 1.62 lakh crore in 2017. Vision: The action is consistent with the government's recent efforts to promote the balanced use of fertilisers or alternative fertilisers. Budget: The program won't have a separate budget; instead, it will be funded by savings from…
20 September, 2022
Government policies and interventions
PARAKH The establishment of a national regulator called PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development) by the Union government is intended to create a benchmark framework for evaluating secondary and higher secondary pupils. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 includes PARAKH. Image Source - Youtube About parakh The National Achievement Survey (NAS) and State Achievement Surveys are two examples of periodic learning outcome examinations that will be administered by the planned regulator, which will also serve as a constituent unit of the NCERT. Leading assessment professionals with in-depth knowledge of the educational systems in India and…
01 September, 2022
Government policies and interventions
OTT Platforms Recently, a report was released by SBI Research, which said that the OTT (Over-The-Top) market is set to become a Rs 12,000-crore industry by 2023, up from Rs 2,590 crore in 2018. Findings The OTT market is anticipated to expand by 36% annually, from Rs 2,590 crore in 2018 to Rs 11,944 crore in 2023. With over 40 players and original media content available in all languages, OTT has already reduced the revenue and share of the entertainment business by 7-9%. It is also steadily expanding. In the country, there are already over 45 crore OTT users, and…
31 August, 2022
Government policies and interventions
One Nation One Fertilizer Image Source - MyGov It has been agreed to execute One Nation One Fertilizer by creating a "Single Brand for Fertilizers and Logo" under the fertilizer subsidy program known as the "Pradhanmantri Bhartiya Janurvarak Pariyojna," according to a statement from the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers (PMBJP). About Beginning on October 2, 2022, the One Nation-One Fertilizer (ONOF) idea will be put into practice. Regardless of the manufacturer, all fertiliser bags, whether they contain urea, di-ammonium phosphate (DAP), muriate of potash (MOP), or NPK, will bear the brand names "Bharat Urea," "Bharat DAP," "Bharat MOP," and…
29 August, 2022
Government policies and interventions
Standard Operating Procedures for Pharmaceutical Marketing The Dolo-650 tablet manufacturers have been charged by the Central Board for Direct Taxes (CBDT) with spending Rs 1,000 crore on gifts for doctors who prescribe the medication. Background: The dispute arose after income-tax raids on Bengaluru-based pharmaceutical company Micro Labs, which produces the well-known paracetamol brand Dolo-650. Problem: It appears that drugmakers' marketing is driven by gift-giving, including free meals, drug samples, and promotional goods. This is a marketing strategy that is well-established in the sector. Supreme Court case: A petition asking for guidance from the Centre to give UCPMP a legislative foundation…
24 August, 2022
Government policies and interventions
Essential Commodities Act of 1955 The Essential Commodities Act of 1955 has recently been used by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution to stop the rise in tur dal prices. States and Union Territories are required to give weekly instructions to "stockholder entities to submit the data of the stocks held by them" to a Department of Consumer Affairs online monitoring portal. Why Invoking the Act? Due to excessive rainfall and water logging conditions in some areas of the key Tur-growing states of Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh, Tur prices have increased since mid-July 2022, but Kharif…
16 August, 2022
Government policies and interventions
FLAG CODE OF INDIA 2022 The Flag Code of India is a set of laws, practices, instructions and conventions concerning the use, display, and hoisting of the Indian national flag in the country. The Flag Code of India was brought into effect on January 26, 2002. Before 2002, the display of the national flag was governed by provisions of The Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950, and the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971. About Flag Code Quite recently, the Indian government amended some of its provisions of the Flag Code 2002. The Flag Code…
26 July, 2022
Government policies and interventions
INDIA INNOVATION INDEX 2021 It was the third edition of the Innovation Index Report by the Niti Aayog. Karnataka has topped again in the ‘Major States’ category, Manipur is leading the ‘North East and Hill States’ category, and Chandigarh is the top performer in the ‘Union Territories and City States’ category. About Innovation index The India Innovation Index is a comprehensive tool for the evaluation and development of the country’s innovation ecosystem which ranks the states and the union territories on their innovation performance to build healthy competition amongst them. This index has been developed in the line with the…
21 July, 2022
Government policies and interventions
APPROVED FUEL FOR NCR: CAQM Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has directed National Capital Region (NCR) states to adopt a standard list of approved fuels to reduce air pollution. The standard list of fuels approved by the CAQM includes petrol, diesel, hydrogen, methane, natural gas, Liquified Petroleum Gas, and electricity. The majority of industries shifted to cleaner fuels such as PNG (Piped Natural gas) and biomass and many other industrial sectors such as food processing, distilleries, and chemicals are already in the process of shifting to cleaner fuels. Shifting to cleaner fuels such as biomass and PNG in the…
14 July, 2022
Government policies and interventions
Lancet Study On Road Safety and India’s Road Safety Measures The Lancet study highlights the urgency of implementing a safe system approach that can effectively address road injury death by 2030 and the number of lives that can be saved through intervention in road safety risk factors. The report uses mortality data from the Global Burden of Disease 2017. This is the first-time country-wise reports are presented based on four parameters drunk- driving, helmet use, speeding, seat -belt use. HIGHLIGHT OF THE REPORT Steps taken to check vehicle speed on road in India could alone have the biggest impact on…
30 June, 2022
Government policies and interventions
INDIA'S GIG ECONOMY: NITI AAYOG REPORT The NITI Aayog has released the report titled India's Booming Gig and Platform Economy. Gig economy In a gig economy, temporary, flexible jobs are on-trend and companies tend to hire independent contractors and freelancers instead of full-time employees. The gig economy can benefit workers, businesses, and consumers by making work more adaptable to the needs of the moment and the demand for flexible lifestyles, where one can focus on personal and professional life without sticking to strict 9 to 5 job conditions. Gig workers mainly engage in livelihoods outside the traditional employer-employee arrangement. Classification…
28 June, 2022
Government policies and interventions
The Situation of Government Jobs PM has ordered, million central government posts to be filled in a mission mode over the next one and a half years. The Current Picture of Employment in India The unemployment rate is defined as the percentage of unemployed persons in the labor force. Suffered by demonetization, pandemic, and subsequent lockdowns, now the Indian economy has started showing some signs of revival. The annual report of the Periodic Labour Force Survey for July 2020 to June 2021 showed that the unemployment rate decreased to 4.2% from 4.8% in 2019-20. The unemployment rate was higher for…
18 June, 2022
Government policies and interventions
Draft National Air Sports Policy 2022 India has the potential to be among the leading nations in the world of air sports. It has a large geographical expanse, diverse topography and fair weather conditions. It has a large population, especially the youth. It has a growing culture for adventure sports and aviation. Other than the direct revenue from air sports activities, the multiplier benefits in terms of growth of travel, tourism, infrastructure and local employment, especially in hilly areas of the country, are several times greater. The creation of air sports hubs across the country will also bring in air…
03 January, 2022
Government policies and interventions
Gram Ujala Scheme UPSC The Union Power and Renewable Energy Minister launched the Gram Ujala scheme in Varanasi. Under the scheme, the government offers the world’s cheapest LED bulbs in rural areas at Rs. 10. The Power Ministry in a press release mentioned that under the Gram Ujala scheme, Convergence Energy Services Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of EESL- Energy Efficiency Services Limited, will be distributing the high-quality LED bulbs at a cost of Rs. 10 in rural areas of Varanasi. Significance of Gram Ujala Scheme: The Gram Ujala Scheme by the government will enable better illumination at an affordable price of just Rs.…
29 December, 2021
Government policies and interventions
National Nutrition Mission: NITI Aayog Recently, the NITI Aayog has released “Accelerating Progress On Nutrition In India: What Will It Take”. It is the third progress report on the National Nutrition Mission or the Poshan Abhiyaan. Key features The third progress report (October 2019-April 2020) takes into account the status on the ground and implementation challenges encountered at various levels through large scale datasets. These datasets are the NFHS-4 and Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey (CNNS). According to the report, India’s targets are conservative on stunting as compared to the global target defined by the World Health Assembly (WHA). It is…
02 December, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Initiatives for Transgender Persons: Garima Greh Recently, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has launched the National Portal for Transgender Persons and inaugurated Garima Greh, a shelter home for transgender persons. National Portal for Transgender Persons: It has been launched in consonance with the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Rules, 2020. It would help transgenders in digitally applying for a certificate and identity card from anywhere in the country, thus preventing any physical interaction with officials. It will help them track the status of application, rejection, grievance redressal, etc. which will ensure transparency in the process. The issuing authorities…
01 December, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Context: This topic is important for UPSC GS Paper 2. Since land is a scarce resource in a populated country like India, the government has formulated certain provisions, rules and guidelines, to facilitate infrastructure development in areas where the land is privately owned, or being used for agricultural purposes. Known as the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013, this law replaced the archaic Land Acquisition Act, 1894, to bring in a new procedure, which would grant fair compensation to those affected. What is land acquisition? It is a process by which the…
01 November, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Production Linked Incentive Scheme (PLI) for IT Hardware Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and his visionary initiatives like the “Digital India” and “Make in India” programmes, India has witnessed unprecedented growth in electronics manufacturing in the last five years. The National Policy on Electronics 2019 envisions positioning India as a global hub for Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) by focusing on size and scale, promoting exports and enhancing domestic value addition by creating an enabling environment for the industry to compete globally. National Policy on Electronics, 2019 Mission and Objective The Policy envisions positioning…
02 July, 2021
Government policies and interventions
DAC nod for building 6 conventional submarines What is Defense Acquisition Council? The Defence Acquisition Council is the highest decision-making body in the Defence Ministry for deciding on new policies and capital acquisitions for the three services (Army, Navy and Air Force) and the Indian Coast Guard. The Minister of Defence is the Chairman of the Council. It was formed, after the Group of Ministers' recommendations on 'Reforming the National Security System', in 2001, post-Kargil War (1999). What is the news? The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved the issuance of a Request For Proposal…
05 June, 2021
Government policies and interventions
FCRA amendments- Foreign contribution and COVID-19 Details of the amendments The amendments to the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) enacted last year that among others made it compulsory for NGOs to open a bank account in Delhi and crippled the work of many organisations that are unable to receive foreign funds. Registered NGOs can receive the foreign contributions for five purposes — social, educational, religious, economic and cultural. An FCRA registration is mandatory for NGOs to receive foreign funds. There are 22,591 FCRA registered NGOs. Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2020 The Bill amends the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010. Provisions of…
10 May, 2021
Government policies and interventions
PLI Scheme for the Food Processing Industry Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) has launched an online portal for ‘Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industry’ (PLISFPI). This Central Sector Scheme ‘PLISFPI’ will be implemented for the period from 2021-22 to 2026-27. It is a part of Prime Minister’s announcement of Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. Key Points It will support creation of global food manufacturing champions commensurate with India's natural resource endowment and support Indian brands of food products in the international markets. The scheme has two components, It will provide sales based incentives for manufacturing of four major food product segments -…
09 May, 2021
Government policies and interventions
PRAYAAS Scheme The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) sent the pension payment orders to the retiring employees under the Employees’ Pension Scheme, 1995 through the “PRAYAAS” initiative. PRAYAAS is an initiative of the EPFO to disburse pension payment orders on the very day of retirement/ superannuation.
09 May, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Model Insurance Villages The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has come out with the concept of Model Insurance Villages (MIV). The idea behind the MIV concept is to offer comprehensive insurance protection to all the major insurable risks that villagers are exposed to and make available covers at an affordable or subsidised cost. Such MIVs are expected to tackle losses due to natural calamities like floods and earthquakes. There’s no catastrophe insurance in India now. The concept would be implemented in a minimum of 500 villages in different districts of the country in the first year and…
09 May, 2021
Government policies and interventions
National Pension System and its reforms Introduction New Pension Scheme was started for government employees in 2004 under a new regulator called the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) About NPS: The Central Government has introduced the National Pension System (NPS) with effect from January 01, 2004 (except for armed forces). NPS is being implemented and regulated by Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority in the country. National Pension System Trust (NPST) established by PFRDA is the registered owner of all assets under NPS. NPS was made available to all Citizens of India from May 01, 2009. Any individual…
25 April, 2021
Government policies and interventions
National Policy for Rare Diseases 2021 Released The Union Health Ministry recently released the policy. Rare Diseases: WHO defines a rare disease as a lifelong disease or disorder that often highly weakens an individual. It has a prevalence of 1 or less per 1000 population. Example: Haemophilia, Thalassemia, Sickle cell anaemia, and auto-immune diseases among others. However, every country has its own definition of rare diseases. The US defines rare diseases as a disease or condition that affects fewer than 200,000 patients in the country. Likewise, the EU defines rare diseases as life-threatening or chronically debilitating (weakening) conditions. It should…
04 April, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Rare diseases in India According to the government, so far only about 450 diseases have been recorded in India from tertiary care hospitals that are globally considered rare diseases. The most commonly reported diseases include Haemophilia, Thalassemia, Sickle-cell Anaemia and Primary Immuno Deficiency in children, auto-immune diseases, and Lysosomal storage disorders such as Pompe disease, Hirschsprung disease, Gaucher’s disease, Cystic Fibrosis, Hemangiomas and certain forms of muscular dystrophies. There are 7,000 - 8,000 rare diseases, but less than 5% have therapies available. About 95% of rare diseases have no approved treatment and less than 1 in 10 patients receive disease-specific…
03 April, 2021
Government policies and interventions
National Rail Plan (NRP) for India 2030 Indian Railways have prepared a National Rail Plan (NRP) for India – 2030. The Plan is to create a ‘future ready’ Railway system by 2030. The NRP is aimed to formulate strategies based on both operational capacities and commercial policy initiatives to increase modal share of the Railways in freight. The NRP is for the entire Indian Railways network and not only for districts connected to the existing rail network but also for districts indirectly impacted by rail transportation. In effect, virtually all the districts of the country get linked to the plan.…
25 March, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Make in India initiative Make in India initiative was launched on September 25, 2014, with the objective of facilitating investment, fostering innovation, building best-in-class manufacturing infrastructure, making it easy to do business and enhancing skill development. The initiative is further aimed at creating a conducive environment for investment, modern and efficient infrastructure, opening up new sectors for foreign investment and forging a partnership between government and industry through a positive mindset. Since its launch, the Make in India initiative has made significant achievements and presently focuses on 27 sectors under Make in India 2.0. Department for Promotion of Industry and…
25 March, 2021
Government policies and interventions
SAAMAR Campaign in Jharkhand The Jharkhand government has launched the SAAMAR campaign to tackle malnutrition in the state. About SAAMAR Campaign: SAAMAR is an acronym for Strategic Action for Alleviation of Malnutrition and Anaemia Reduction. The SAAMAR campaign aims to identify anaemic women and malnourished children. It brings together various departments to effectively deal with the major malnutrition problem in the state. Features of the campaign: SAMAR campaign has been launched with a 1000 days target. Under this annual surveys will be conducted to track the progress. Every Anganwadi Centres will be engaged to identify malnourished children. Subsequently, they will…
24 March, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Namami Gange Programme The Government of India has been currently implementing several initiatives under the Namami Gange Programme to clean the polluted rivers of Ganga. The Programme was launched in 2014. It is an Integrated Conservation Mission under the Ministry of Jal Shakti. It Aims to achieve effective abatement of pollution, conservation and rejuvenation of the National River Ganga. Main Pillars of the Programme: Sewerage Treatment Infrastructure, River-Surface Cleaning, Afforestation, Industrial Effluent Monitoring, River-Front Development, Biodiversity Public Awareness among others. National Mission for Clean Ganga is the implementing agency of the Namami Gange Programme at the national level. National Mission for…
24 March, 2021
Government policies and interventions
New Projects Under Jal Jeevan Mission The Ministry of Jal Shakti Ministry has entered a partnership with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) and the government of Denmark. The agreement aims to bring tap water connections to 11 water-scarce districts in Uttar Pradesh under the Jal Jeevan mission. About United Nations Office for Project Services(UNOPS): The office was established in 1973 as part of the United Nations Development Programme(UNDP). It became an independent, self-financing organization in 1995. It is aimed at implementing projects for the United Nations System, international financial institutions and governments. UNOPS is a member of the United Nations…
24 March, 2021
Government policies and interventions
‘Defence Production & Export Promotion Policy (DPEPP)’ 2020 This draft policy is positioned as the Ministry of Defence’s overarching guiding document to provide a focused, structured and significant thrust to the defence production capabilities of the country for self-reliance and exports. It envisions to make India amongst the top countries of the world in the Defence sector, including the Aerospace and Naval Shipbuilding sectors, from design to production, with the active participation of public and private sectors. This policy, inter alia, aims to create an environment that encourages R&D, rewards innovation, creates Indian Intellectual Property (IP) ownership and promotes a…
23 March, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020 Recently, a new Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) (erstwhile Defence Procurement Procedure or DPP), 2020 was released by the Ministry of Defence (MoD). Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP)-2020 envisages the basic tenets of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan’ and encourages indigenous designing and manufacturing of defence items. The proposals for indigenous design and manufacturing are considered under the ‘Make’ Procedure of DAP-2020. The ‘Make’ Procedure aims to achieve the objective of self-reliance by involving greater participation of Indian industries including the private sector through the following mechanisms: Make-I (Government Funded): This involves the design and development of equipment, systems, major…
23 March, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Nidhi The Union Cabinet approves the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Nidhi (PMSSN). About Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Nidhi(PMSSN): This program will ensure access to universal & affordable health care through a fund that does not lapse at the end of the financial year. Features: It has been set up as a single non-lapsable reserve fund for a share of Health. It will be made from the share of health in the proceeds of Health and Education Cess. The fund will be administered and maintained by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare Finance Minister announced the…
12 March, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Stand Up India Scheme The government has informed the Lok Sabha that 81% of the accounts under the Stand Up India Scheme belong to women entrepreneurs. Stand Up India Scheme: Launched in 2016 by the Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance. The Stand-Up India Scheme facilitates bank loans for setting up a new enterprise in manufacturing, services, agri-allied activities, or the trading sector by SC/ST/Women entrepreneurs. It provides bank loans between Rs 10 lakh and up to 1 crore. The government does not allocate funds for loans under the Scheme. They are extended by Scheduled Commercial Banks(SCBs). Eligibility: SC/ST and/or…
12 March, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission SPMRM is a scheme launched by the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) in 2016 to deliver integrated project-based infrastructure in rural areas, which will also include the development of economic activities and skill development. A predecessor to SPMRM was the Provision of Urban Amenities to Rural Areas (PURA), announced in 2003. Provision of Urban Amenities to Rural Areas Provision of Urban Amenities to Rural Areas (PURA) was aimed at the provision of urban amenities and livelihood opportunities in rural areas to bridge the rural-urban divide thereby reducing the migration from rural to urban areas. PURA has treated as a…
11 March, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana-Analysis Introduction Subsidised LPG prices have increased by a massive 50% in this financial year alone, consistently capturing headlines. About Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana: Launched in May 2016. To provide LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) connections to poor households. A deposit-free LPG connection is given to eligible with financial assistance of Rs 1,600 per connection by the Centre. Eligibility Applicant must a woman above the age of 18 and a citizen of India. Applicant should belong to a BPL (Below Poverty Line) household. No one in the applicant’s household should own an LPG connection. The household income of…
08 March, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Pradhan Mantri YUVA Yojana PM YUVA Yojana is a centrally sponsored Scheme on entrepreneurship education and training. It is being implemented by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) from the 2016-17 to 2020-21 period (5 years). It aims at creating an enabling ecosystem through entrepreneurship education, training, advocacy and easy access to entrepreneurship support networks and promoting social enterprises for inclusive growth. The objectives of the scheme are, Educate and equip potential and early-stage entrepreneurs Connect entrepreneurs in enabling networks of peers, mentors, funds and business services Support entrepreneurs through Entrepreneurship Hubs (E - Hubs) Catalyze a culture…
08 March, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Technical Education Quality Improvement Programme The government is planning to replace the Technical Education Quality Improvement Programme (TEQIP) with a new programme MERITE Project. About the Technical Education Quality Improvement Programme: It was started in 2002 by the Ministry of Human Resources and Development with the assistance of the World Bank and is being implemented in a phased manner. It aims to upscale the quality of technical education and enhance the capacities of institutions. The Technical Education Quality Improvement Programme III (TEQIP-III) was started in 2017 and will be completed by 2021. The Objective is to improve quality and equity…
02 March, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Catch the Rain Campaign What is the Catch the Rain Campaign? The “Catch the Rain” campaign launched by National Water Mission(NWM) is an awareness generation program nudging the state governments and stakeholders to take up rainwater harvesting structures appropriate to the soil substrata and climatic conditions, with the active participation of people. Key Features : Duration of the campaign: The awareness generation phase of the campaign will run from mid-December 2020 to March 2021. The tagline of the campaign: NWM has launched a campaign Catch the rain” with the tagline “catch the rain, where it falls, when it falls” in…
01 March, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Swachh Iconic Places Ministry of Jal Shakti has selected 12 iconic sites to be transformed into ‘Swachh Tourist Destinations’ under Swachh Iconic Places (SIP) of Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen (SBM-G). Sites - Ajanta Caves, Sanchi Stupa, Kumbhalgarh Fort, Jaisalmer Fort, Sun Temple, Ramdevra, Golconda Fort, Chandigarh Rock Garden, Dal Lake, Mathura Banke Bihari Temple, Agra Fort, Bengal Kalighat Temple. SIP initiative aims at enhancing the experience of visitors by improving the sanitation and cleanliness standards at and around the sites. It is coordinated by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Tourism Ministry, Ministry of Culture…
26 February, 2021
Government policies and interventions
OTT Platforms are now under Government’s ambit What is the news? The government has brought video streaming over-the-top (OTT) platforms such as Netflix, Amazon’s Prime Video, Hotstar, and others under the ambit of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. These platforms were so far under the purview of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. With a market size of nearly Rs 500 crore at the end of March 2019, the online video streaming platforms may become a Rs 4000-crore revenue market by the end of 2025, according to reports. At the end of 2019, India had as many as…
26 February, 2021
Government policies and interventions
The poor state of the Indian state The pillars needed for a strong state Strong states, according to political and social historians, are founded on three pillars. They are built with support from the people; They have a strong administrative machinery to provide stability and deliver public services, and They have the managerial ability to shape and implement change. Support of the people Strong support of the people is essential. Mere election by a majority is not sufficient. Historically, as Francis Fukuyama points out in The Origins of Political Order, builders of strong states have bound people around a shared…
18 February, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana & Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana PMJJBY (Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana) PMSBY (Pradhan Mantri Surakhsa Bima Yojana) PMJJBY (Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana) is a life insurance scheme. PMSBY (Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana) is an accidental insurance scheme. The age limit for PMJJBY (Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana) is minimum 18 years and maximum 50 years. The age limit for PMSBY (Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana) is minimum 18 years and maximum of 70 years. The annual premium for PMJJBY (Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana) is Rs 330.…
17 February, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Meri Saheli Initiative It was launched as a pilot project by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) across the South Eastern Railway for the security of women passengers in trains originating in that zone. This initiative has been rolled over to all zonal railways across the Indian Railways’ network from October 2020. Dedicated teams of lady RPF personnel have been formed across all zonal railways for its implementation. Section 58 of the Railways Act, 1989 provides for the earmarking of accommodation for female passengers in trains.
12 February, 2021
Government policies and interventions
Jal Jeevan Mission (Urban) 2.0 to revive urban water bodies The urban water supply mission under the Jal Jeevan Mission announced in the Budget would include rejuvenation of water bodies as well as 20% of supply from reused water. Jal Jeevan Mission Jal Jeevan Mission, a central government initiative under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, aims to ensure access of piped water for every household in India. The mission’s goal is to provide to all households in rural India safe and adequate water through individual household tap connections by 2024. The Har Ghar Nal Se Jal programme was announced by…
03 February, 2021
Government policies and interventions
The Madhya Pradesh Freedom of Religion Bill, 2020 UPSC GS-PAPER-2 GOVERNANCE – Article -21 & 25 related issue Context: Highly important to study secularism. MP Government initiated the war against LOVE JIHAD which many groups of people considered the dilution of fundamental rights and freedom of conscience. Article-21 is in the debate which permits RIGHT TO MARRIAGE. The Madhya Pradesh government has recently passed an ordinance to deal with unlawful religious conversions, which are in opposition of various judgements of the Supreme Court. What it is? It provides for a prison term of up to 10 years and a fine…
27 December, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Jal Jeevan adds 1 lakh water connections daily Context: UPSC GS Paper III: Water Resources, Government Schemes (PT-Mains) Since its launch in August 2019, the Centre’s ambitious flagship scheme Jal Jeevan Mission ( JJM), which in partnership with the States seeks to ensure that every rural household of the country gets assured drinking water supply by 2024, has achieved 32.3% coverage of tap connections in rural India. The Modi government is almost replicating the implementation of its flagship scheme of building toilets in the first term in providing tap water connections to every rural household in the country in its…
27 December, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Haryana to host 4th edition of Khelo India Programme The Sports Ministry has approved the inclusion of four indigenous sports: Gatka, Kalaripayattu, ThangTa and Mallakhamba in the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) 2021, scheduled to take place in Haryana. Kalaripayattu has its origin in Kerala and has practitioners all over the world, Bollywood actor Vidyut Jammwal being one. Mallakhamba, meanwhile, has been well known across India. Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra have been the hotspots of this sport. Gatka originates from the state of Punjab and this traditional fighting style of the Nihang Sikh warriors is used both as self defence as…
22 December, 2020
Government policies and interventions
MGNREGS – Job Demand Increases GS Paper-2 Governance (Mains-I.V) Context: During COVID-19 due to reverse migration the demand for MGNREGA suddenly increases. 96% of gram panchayats have logged work under the scheme in the financial year (2020-21) as compared to the previous seven years. This TOPIC is highly important for the UPSC Mains examination. The NREGS is a demand-based scheme and has emerged as a safety net during the pandemic for jobless migrant workers returning to their villages Despite a progressive relaxation in Covid-19 curbs to revive the economy, 96% of gram panchayats have logged work under the scheme in the financial year (2020-21) as compared to the previous seven years.…
02 December, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Reservation in Super-speciality Medical Courses: SC Recently, the Supreme Court (SC) has reserved its order on the state governments providing a 50% in-service reservation for admissions to super-speciality medical courses (Doctorate of Medicine/DM and Master of Chirurgiae/M. Ch.) in government colleges for the academic year 2020-21. Features In August 2020, the SC allowed states to grant the benefit of reservation of seats to in-service doctors in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) postgraduate (PG) degree courses. The judgment held that the state has the legislative competence and authority to provide for a separate source of entry for in-service candidates…
27 November, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Centre within its rights to suspend MPLADS, says Bombay high court: Recent Bombay High Court ruling: The Union government was within its powers to suspend the MPLAD scheme and divert such funds to combat Covid-19. Besides, this (Covid-19) is a disaster so the government will have to resort to Disaster Management Act. It is within its powers to invoke the Act. What’s the issue? The Union government had resorted to Disaster Management Act to suspend the member of Parliament local area development (MPLAD) scheme in April this year. A petition was filed against this in the Court. About MPLAD scheme:…
26 November, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Government sets up a committee to review guidelines on Television Rating agencies The Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has set up a committee to review guidelines on Television Rating agencies in India. The committee will be chaired by Prasar Bharti CEO Shashi Shekhar Vempati. The committee will be required to revisit the existing Television Rating guidelines to further strengthen the procedures to make them more credible and transparent. The committee will also revisit the overall industry scenario, addressing the needs of the stakeholders and make recommendations for a credible, robust, transparent and accountable rating system through changes, if required, in the…
05 November, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Victim’s account may be more conclusive than medical finding By, R.K.Vij is a senior IPS officer in Chhattisgarh Context The alleged gang rape of a woman in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, in September brought forth an important issue concerning the relevance of forensic evidence of the victim of rape, i.e., about the signs of recent sexual intercourse and struggle. This acquired more attention after a senior police officer of U.P. stated that the forensic science laboratory report did not confirm the allegation of rape. This article explains the general medico-legal status and the various judgments of the Supreme Court in this…
29 October, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Maritime Vision 2030 What is it? It is a ten-year blueprint for the maritime sector which will be released by the Prime Minister of India at the Maritime India Summit in November 2020. It will supersede the Sagarmala initiative and aims to boost waterways, give a fillip to the shipbuilding industry and encourage cruise tourism in India. Development Projects under Maritime Vision 2030: Maritime Development Fund: A Rs. 25,000-crore fund, which will provide low cost, long-tenure financing to the sector with the Centre contributing Rs. 2,500 crore over seven years. Port Regulatory Authority: A pan-India port authority will be set…
28 October, 2020
Government policies and interventions
India’s First Seaplane Project A seaplane is a fixed-wing aeroplane designed for taking off and landing on water. There are two main types of seaplanes: flying boats (often called hull seaplanes) and floatplanes. India's first seaplane service in Gujarat, is set to start from 31st October 2020, the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, with the aim of providing air connectivity between the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad and the Statue of Unity in Kevadia. The seaplane will be operated by SpiceJet. It is a 19-seater seaplane, which will be able to accommodate 14 passengers. In the next phase, Dharoi dam…
25 October, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Smothering the housing rights of the urban poor Introduction The Supreme Court, in an order on 31 August 2020 had directed the removal of 48,000 slums along the railway tracks in the national capital within three months. The Court ordered that there should not be any interference, political or otherwise. The order also stated that no Court shall grant any stay with respect to removal of the encroachments and in case any such interim order is granted, that shall not be effective. It is also worth noting that the National Green Tribunal had already constituted a special task force for…
12 September, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Bringing the Internet to everyone Context The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the influence of technology in our lives. We live in times where we can buy or sell anything online. Influence of technology during COVID-19 We get quality access to healthcare, government services and education online. Payment gateways enable us to make cashless transactions. Verifications and signatures are digitised. Communication devices and platforms enable us to stay in touch with one another. The meals we desire are delivered home. We can teach students, mobilise crowds, conduct conferences or meetings, hold digital political rallies, all within the comfort of our homes.…
27 August, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Subhiksha Keralam Project The Kerala Government's program 'Subhiksha Keralam' Project or Padhathi aims to combat food scarcity in the state, the Kerala state agriculture department has started converting fallow lands into farms. The government is targeting around 25,000 hectares of fallow land to convert to farms. Subhiksha Keralam Padhathi is a convergence scheme where all the departments are merging together. The government is trying to create good models of integrated farming so that expenditure is reduced and income is more.
19 August, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Plug and play Business model The government intends to promote the scheme of ‘plug and play for further fast-tracking investment proposals, especially for projects having substantial foreign investment. About plug and play ‘Plug and play’ concept normally refers to ready facilities in terms of building, power-water-sewage connectivity, road connectivity, beside other basic things including clearances in hand required to start the industry. This concept gained ground in 2015 when the then Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said in his Budget speech that the government proposes to set up five new Ultra Mega Power Projects, each of 4000 MWs in the plug-and-play…
18 August, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Post info app Minister of Communications & Information Technology Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad has launched India Post’s mobile app for mail tracking. The new Post info app, developed by the Centre for Excellence in Postal Technology, provides facilities for: mail item tracking; post office searches; and a calculator for postage costs, insurance premiums and interest. According to India Post, the app can be used to track the following types of mail items: • Speed Post •Registered Letter •Insured Letters, etc.
11 August, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Andaman and Nicobar will be a maritime hub Prime Minister has said that the Andaman and Nicobar Islands region, owing to its strategic importance, is going to be developed as a maritime and startup hub. 12 islands of the archipelago have been selected for high-impact projects with an emphasis on boosting trade of sea-based, organic and coconut-based products of the region. Government initiatives: Proposed transhipment hub in the Andaman will help the group of islands become an important centre of blue economy and a maritime and startup hub. Over 300 km of national highway is expected to be completed in…
10 August, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Profiteering during a pandemic Context The nationwide lockdown phase witnessed an exponential rise in prices of essential items like masks and sanitizers across the country. With the rise in the number of cases, there have been reports of private hospitals overcharging patients, even after state governments capped COVID-19 treatment charges. In some private hospitals, patients have been asked to pay lakhs even before being allotted beds. The cost of medicines like Remdesivir has also shot up leading to a situation where the poor have been unable to afford the essential medicines. There have been reports of overcharging by the ambulance…
04 August, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Consumer Protection Act, 2019 Context: The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 came into force on 20th July 2020. Details: The new Act empowers buyers to ask for replacements, refunds or damages from brands, e-tailers and service providers. Aggrieved customers in India will now be able to seek effective legal remedy, on the lines of class action suits seen in many countries. Salient features of the Act: Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA): The law proposes a Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) to regulate matters of consumer rights, trade practices and advertisements prejudicial to the interests of the public, and to promote, protect…
22 July, 2020
Government policies and interventions
NTPC and Renewable energy & NIIF GS-paper-3 Energy security (PT-MAINS) National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited It is a collaborative investment platform for international and Indian investors, anchored by the Government of India. It was set up in December 2015 to catalyse funding into the country’s core sector. It invests across asset classes such as infrastructure, private equity and other diversified sectors in India, with the objective to generate attractive risk-adjusted returns for its investors. It has a targeted corpus of Rs. 40,000 crore to be raised over the years. 49% of which will be funded by the government at any given point of time. Remaining 51% is to be raised…
19 July, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Improvement in economy might slow down or even stagnate in the second quarter Context: The article discusses the economic impact of the pandemic and analyzes India’s approach. Details: - Reopening of the economy post the lockdown phase has led to some improvement in economic activity towards the latter part of the April-June quarter. - However, there are concerns that the improvement in economic activity is unlikely to sustain. There are concerns that in the July-September quarter, the pace of economic growth would slow down or even stagnate and fall. - CRISIL Ltd foresees a 25 percent contraction in India’s…
17 July, 2020
Government policies and interventions
There’s no one to fill Mahalanobis’s shoes By, Atanu Biswas is Professor of Statistics, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata Context * In Poverty and Famines (1981), Amartya Sen argued that poor distribution of food, wartime inflation, speculative buying and panic hoarding were important reasons for the devastating Bengal famine of 1943. Survey of the Bengal famine * Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis, India’s ‘Plan Man’ and the architect of the country’s statistical system, conducted a large-scale sample survey of Bengal’s famine-ravaged villages between July 1944 and February 1945 for causal analysis, and to assess the extent of the disaster and an estimate…
07 July, 2020
Government policies and interventions
One Sun One World One Grid GS-Paper-3 Economics Recently, the Government of India has called for bids to roll-out the ‘One Sun One World One Grid’ (OSOWOG) plan. The plan focuses on a framework for facilitating global cooperation, building a global ecosystem of interconnected renewable energy resources (mainly solar energy) that can be seamlessly shared. ImpPoints The vision behind the OSOWOG is ‘The Sun Never Sets’ and is a constant at some geographical location, globally, at any given point of time. This is by far one of the most ambitious schemes undertaken by any country and is of global significance in terms of sharing economic benefits. It has been taken up under the technical…
29 June, 2020
Government policies and interventions
“Global solar grid could cause sun burns” Part of: GS-III- Energy security (PT-MAINS-PERSONALITY TEST) In recent years, India has leveraged forums like the G20 and the UNFCCC to collaborate with major powers in new areas of growth and in bringing about global reforms. One such initiative is One Sun One World One Grid’ (OSOWOG). Under OSOWOG vision, India seeks to replicate its global solar leadership (International Solar Alliance) by encouraging the phased development of a single globally connected solar electricity grid to leverage the multiple benefits (Low cost, Zero pollution) of solar energy. The underlying logic behind OSOWOG is that a grid spread across multiple time zones…
29 June, 2020
Government policies and interventions
PM SVANidhi PM SVANidhi was launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, on June 01, 2020. Its objective is to provide affordable Working Capital loans to street vendors to resume their livelihoods that have been adversely affected due to the Covid-19 lockdown. Under the Scheme, the vendors can avail of a working capital loan of up to Rs. 10,000, which is repayable in monthly instalments over the tenure of one year. On timely/ early repayment of the loan, an interest subsidy @ 7% per annum will be credited to the bank accounts of beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer…
26 June, 2020
Government policies and interventions
SATYABHAMA Portal Union Ministry of Mines has launched a portal "SATYABHAMA (Science and Technology Yojana for Atmanirbhar Bharat in Mining Advancement)". Its aim is to promote research and development in the mining and minerals sector. It has been launched to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the Science and Technology Programme Scheme. Under the Science and Technology Programme Scheme, the Ministry of Mines promotes research in applied geosciences, mineral exploration, mining and allied areas, mineral processing, optimum utilization and conservation of the mineral resources of the country. The portal has been designed, developed and implemented by the National Informatics Centre (NIC). The…
25 June, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Lessons for Yogi from Gandhi and Lee By, Arun Maira is former member, Planning Commission, and author, ‘Transforming Systems: Why the World Needs a New Ethical Toolkit’ Context # Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is determined to bring all migrant workers back to his State. He says he does not want U.P.’s citizens to migrate in future. # He has a vision of providing homes and jobs to all of them . # Moreover, he will be competing with neighbouring States (Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, etc.) and also States further away, which will also be working harder to grow jobs.…
16 June, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Aadhaar Face Authentication The Unique Identification Authority of India has decided to enable Face Authentication for validating Aadhaar cards from July 2018. Currently, the UIDAI provides two modes of biometric verification: fingerprint authentication and iris authentication. Face authentication will be allowed only in fusion mode along with one more authentication factor either fingerprint or iris or OTP to authenticate an Aadhaar number holder. Face authentication will only be allowed on a “need” basis.
27 May, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Pathways to a more resilient economy By, Arun Maira is Former Member, Planning Commission and the author of ‘Redesigning the Aeroplane While Flying: Reforming Institutions’ Introduction When complex systems come to catastrophes, i.e. critical points of instability, they re-emerge in distinctly new forms, according to the science of complex systems. The COVID-19 global pandemic is a catastrophe, both for human lives and for economies. Economists cannot predict in what form the economy will emerge from it. Living systems evolve and acquire new capabilities over time. Lines fo Essay (Mains) 1.Fritjof Capra and Pier Luigi Luisi point out in The…
06 May, 2020
Government policies and interventions
India in the post-pandemic world By Sujatha Singh, (Former Foreign Secretary) Introduction: The manner in which the country deals with the crisis will determine its place in the future world order Yes, we all know that the world we once knew has gone, perhaps forever. Much has changed and will continue to. What has not changed though, is human nature itself. The way we react, as a species to the unknown, or to an existential threat, on a scale not experienced in recent times. Multilateralism Vs Anti-Globalisation The pandemic has added heft to arguments of foreign policy analysts across the…
28 April, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Reverse quarantine Part of: GS-II- Governance and Health (PT-MAINS-PERSONALITY TEST) Reserve quarantine is a practice of detaching the most vulnerable people, aged or people with co-morbidity conditions, from the rest and monitoring their health indicators closely to protect them from infection. The government is working on it as part of its multi pronged strategy against Covid 19.Through this, in case of a community spread, it can isolate its large volume of grey population and check their mortality rate effectively. According to expert opinion, only reverse quarantine is effective until half of the population recovers from COVID-19 and gains immunity or…
26 April, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Fitch ratings slashes India’s economic growth projection to 0.8% in current fiscal The leading credit rating agency, Fitch Ratings has slashed India's economic growth projections to 0.8 per cent in the current fiscal saying an unparalleled global recession was underway due to disruptions caused by the outbreak of Corona virus pandemic and resultant lockdowns. In its Global Economic Outlook, Fitch Ratings said India's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth will slip to 0.8 per cent for the year April 2020 to March 2021 as compared to an estimated 4.9 per cent growth in the previous fiscal. Growth is, however, expected…
24 April, 2020
Government policies and interventions
COVID India Seva launched The Union Health Minister has launched the ‘COVID India Seva’, an interactive platform to establish a direct channel of communication during the pandemic. About the COVID India Seva: This is a Twitter handle which can serve as an interactive platform to establish a direct channel of communication with millions of Indians amid the pandemic. This initiative is aimed at enabling transparent e-governance delivery in real-time and answering citizen queries swiftly, at scale, especially in crisis situations like the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Through this, people can pose queries @CovidIndiaSeva and get them responded to in almost real-time.…
23 April, 2020
Government policies and interventions
PM - CARES Fund The government has set up the Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund (PM-CARES Fund) to deal with any kind of emergency or distress situation posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This Fund has been set up owing to a number of requests made by the people to support the government in the wake of the COVID-19 emergency. About the Fund The Fund is a public charitable trust with the Prime Minister as its Chairman. Other Members include Defence Minister, Home Minister and Finance Minister. The Fund enables micro-donations as a result of which a large number of people will be able to contribute with the…
20 April, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Lockdown 2.0 COVID-19 and New guidelines Part of: GS-II- Governance (PT-MAINS-PERSONALITY TEST) Context: Wearing face covers and masks is now compulsory in public places and workplaces, spitting in public is a punishable offence and selling liquor, gutka and tobacco is strictly prohibited. All industries operating in rural areas and the government’s flagship rural jobs scheme will also be allowed to reopen from April 20 if they follow social distancing norms and other safeguards against the COVID-19 infection. These are some of the directives in a fresh order issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to manage the pandemic. The lockdown is scheduled to end on May…
16 April, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Madhya Pradesh railways design a mobile doctor booth called ‘CHARAK’ Madhya Pradesh railways design a mobile doctor booth called ‘CHARAK’ for zero-contact check-ups, the West Central Railway’s Coach Rehabilitation Workshop (CRWS) in Madhya Pradesh’s (MP) Bhopal city, has created a mobile doctor booth called “CHARAK” to eliminate the possibility of physical contact between the doctor and the coronavirus (COVID-19) infected patient. Key Points: i.A viral barrier chamber has been built in the railway compartment itself, through which doctors will be able to examine patients without direct physical contact. ii.This system will prove to be very helpful as there is a shortage of…
10 April, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Initiatives to Fight Coronavirus – Part-3 Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III- Economy and Health I. Geo-fencing app will be used to locate quarantine violators Context: The Centre is using powers under the Indian Telegraph Act to fetch information from telecom companies every 15 minutes to track COVID-19 cases across the country. COVID-19 Quarantine Alert System (CQAS): The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has shared a standard operating procedure (SOP) with all telecom service providers regarding the application called COVID-19 Quarantine Alert System (CQAS). The government has tested this application which triggers e-mails and SMS alerts to an authorised government agency if…
03 April, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Fund raising – COVID-19 Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III- Economy terms Recently, the Government has hiked Ways and Means Advance (WMA) limit with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) by 60%. (PT SHOT) WMA limit is proposed to be revised to Rs 1.20 lakh crore and would be reviewed on a need basis (from Rs 75,000 crore last year). This is to compensate for the cash flow mismatch in Financial Year (FY) 21 expected from higher spending to combat the spread of COVID-19. Ways and Means Advance scheme The Ways and Means Advances scheme was introduced in 1997. The Ways and Means Advances scheme…
01 April, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Migrant workers to be stopped, quarantined at borders: Centre Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II- Governance Migrant workers trying to move out of the cities to their villages in the light of the nationwide lockdown. Details: Strict enforcement of the lockdown: The Union Home Ministry has termed the movement of migrant workers to reach their hometowns a violation of the lockdown measures on maintaining social distance. The Centre has asked the States and UTs to strictly enforce the 21-day lockdown by prohibiting the movement of people across cities and highways. Directions have been given to seal the district and State borders and allow only…
30 March, 2020
Government policies and interventions
PM-CARES Fund Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II- Governance Newly instituted PM-CARES Fund. Background: In India, the spread of coronavirus has been increasing and is posing serious challenges for the health and economic security of millions of people. There have been calls for citizen donations to support the government in the wake of this emergency with people from all walks of life expressing their desire to donate to India’s war against COVID-19. Details: Catering to the need for having a dedicated national fund with the primary objective of dealing with any kind of emergency or distress situation, and to provide relief to the affected, a new…
29 March, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Initiatives to Fight Coronavirus – Part-2 Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III- Health I. India is all set to join the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Solidarity Trial which aims at rapid global search for drugs to treat COVID-19. Key Points India has stayed away from the multi-country trial till now due to its small sample size. It will express its interest to participate in the trial for the Indian population when it feels that the time is right. Vaccine development wasn’t a priority for Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) currently because there are around 30 vaccine groups already in operation worldwide. Keeping in view the rising number of…
28 March, 2020
Government policies and interventions
Initiatives to Fight Coronavirus Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III- Health I. Recently, the Government has developed a platform which will host webinars by All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) doctors for healthcare workers across the country. It has also developed an app that will trace the paths of COVID-19 positive patients, serving as a warning to possible contacts. Key Points Chat Boxes on Facebook and WhatsApp have been set up by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) for providing information about COVID-19. A portal to map the requirements of hospitals, and cross-referencing them with those who have offered to help with equipment is also…
27 March, 2020
Government policies and interventions
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