Government Schemes [India & States] Current Affairs MCQs

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Haryana government faces backlash over e-initiatives, turning into an election issue. Parivar Pehchan Patra (PPP) and Meri Fasal Mera Byora draw criticism. PPP suffers privacy concerns and discrepancies, causing inconvenience. Meri Fasal Mera Byora, though beneficial, suffers from poor implementation and loopholes, leading to fraud and corruption. PPP aims for ‘paperless’ and ‘faceless’ delivery of state benefits, providing unique family IDs. Meri Fasal Mera Byora, launched in 2022, aims to facilitate farmer grievances under Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana.

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The Ministry of Renewable Energy warns farmers against fake websites and apps soliciting registration fees for solar water pump installation under PM-KUSUM Scheme. Launched in 2019, PM-KUSUM aims to de-dieselise farming, boost farmer income, and ensure energy security. It targets adding 34,800 MW of solar capacity by March 2026 with Rs 34,422 crore funding. Farmers receive subsidies up to 30-50% for solar pumps and grid-connected plants. Implemented by state governments under MNRE.

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India’s ‘Jan Aushadhi Scheme’ aims to provide affordable generic medicines through Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs). Mauritius adopted the scheme, becoming the first country outside India to do so. Nepal is now in talks with India to establish similar centers, enhancing access to low-cost, high-quality medicines. With over 10,000 PMBJKs across India, the scheme aims to reduce healthcare costs and promote generic medicine use, managed by the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau.

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The central government has extended the Digital Health Incentive Scheme (DHIS) for digitising patients’ health records and linking them with the Ayushman Bharat Digital Health Account (ABHA ID) until June 30, 2025. Launched on January 1, 2023, under Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, the DHIS aims to promote digital health practices in India. Eligibility includes health facilities and digital solution companies, with incentives based on the number of ABHA-linked digital health records created.

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Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth launched the “GRSE Accelerated Innovation Nurturing Scheme (GAINS 2024)” in Kolkata on July 10, 2024. This scheme by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE) aims to address shipyard challenges and promote technology development through MSMEs and start-ups. Aligned with ‘Make in India’ and ‘Start-up India’ policies, GAINS 2024 fosters innovation to advance ship design and construction, supporting Atmanirbharta objectives.

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The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) sanctioned seven new private sector projects under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme. Established to promote self-reliance in defence technology under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, the TDF is a Ministry of Defence program executed by DRDO. It supports MSMEs and startups, providing up to 90% funding for projects costing up to INR 50 crore, with a maximum development period of four years.

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The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently allowed resident individuals to open Foreign Currency Accounts (FCA) in International Financial Services Centres (IFSCs) at GIFT City, Gujarat, under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS). Introduced in 2004, LRS simplifies remitting funds outside India, allowing residents, including minors, to remit up to USD 250,000 per financial year. This excludes corporates and trusts, and covers any permissible current or capital account transactions.

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Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai recently requested special central grants due to the state’s large tribal population, challenging geographical conditions, and Naxal activities. During a meeting with the 16th Finance Commission, he highlighted rapid development efforts in Naxal-affected areas through the ‘Niyad Nellanar Yojana,’ which aims to provide basic amenities like education and health. The CM noted that mining activities are causing additional environmental and health costs, with GST benefiting other states more than Chhattisgarh.

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Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has launched the Rajiv Gandhi Civil Abhaya Hastham Scheme 2024. This scheme provides Rs 1 lakh financial assistance to economically weaker students (EWS/BC/SC/ST) who have passed the UPSC preliminary exam to help them prepare for the mains. The scheme aims to increase the number of civil employees in the state. Eligible students must apply online once the official website is released.

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The Finance Minister announced a revision to the model Skill Loan Scheme, now facilitating loans up to Rs 7.5 lakh, backed by a government-promoted fund guarantee. Introduced in July 2015, the scheme offers institutional credit for skill development courses aligned with National Occupations Standards and Qualification Packs, conducted by NSQF-compliant training institutes. It applies to all Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) member banks and RBI-advised financial institutions. Any Indian National admitted to ITIs, Polytechnics, recognized schools, affiliated colleges, or NSDC training partners is eligible, with no age restrictions. The courses lead to certifications, diplomas, or degrees.