Government Schemes [India & States] Current Affairs MCQs

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The Pradhan Mantri Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana (PMVKY) was launched on October 28, 2014, to empower tribal communities in India. It addresses historical neglect by providing financial assistance and promoting sustainable development. The initiative includes the Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana for integrated development in 36,428 tribal villages, focusing on connectivity, education, health, and sanitation. It supports Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups with tailored development projects, allocating ₹15,000 crore for housing, water, sanitation, and education over three years. It provides pre-matric and post-matric scholarships for tribal students and funds research on tribal cultures and challenges. Funds are also allocated for project management units to ensure effective monitoring and implementation of welfare schemes.

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Rajasthan launched the Sahakar Kisan Kalyan Yojana, an interest subvention scheme for long-term cooperative loans. The scheme aims to boost farm productivity and increase farmers’ income. Farmers can access loans through primary cooperative land development banks and Central cooperative banks in Rajasthan. The scheme rewards timely repayment with interest subsidies: 7% for agricultural loans and 5% for non-agricultural loans. Loans support projects like tube well deepening, drip irrigation, land leveling, greenhouses, solar installations, vermicomposting, silkworm rearing, and beekeeping.

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The Union Cabinet approved the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) Scheme to promote natural farming across India. This centrally sponsored scheme aims to reduce farmers’ input costs and dependency on external inputs while ensuring safe, nutritious food. NMNF will be implemented in 15,000 clusters across Gram Panchayats, covering 1 crore farmers and 7.5 lakh hectares in two years. 10,000 Bio-input Resource Centres (BRCs) will be set up for easy access to natural farming inputs. 2,000 model demonstration farms will be created, and 18.75 lakh farmers will be trained in natural farming practices. 30,000 Krishi Sakhis/CRPs will assist farmers in clusters for awareness and support.

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Gujarat has introduced the New Cottage Policy 2024, effective for five years, aiming to develop self-sustaining cottage industries. The policy focuses on credit access, market support, infrastructure, skill development, technology upgrades, and innovation for artisans and entrepreneurs. Maximum loan amounts under the scheme have increased from ₹8 lakh to ₹25 lakh, and subsidies have risen from ₹1.25 lakh to ₹3.75 lakh. The policy aims to create 12 lakh jobs over five years, including 3.3 lakh direct and indirect opportunities through enhanced financial support. It seeks to expand access to local and international markets for artisans.

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The 5th Anniversary of the National Youth Parliament Scheme (NYPS) web portal was celebrated. It was launched by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs on November 26, 2019. It aims to expand Youth Parliament participation nationwide, including untouched areas, promoting democratic values. The portal provides guidelines, training modules, video tutorials, and sample scripts for self-learning. Participants receive e-certificates after conducting physical or virtual Youth Parliament sittings. NYPS 2.0, launched in 2024, allows participation through Institutions, Groups, or Individuals. More than 1,00,000 students have participated since its inception. The initiative aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision of strengthening democracy by engaging youth.

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The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports launched the Retired Sportsperson Empowerment Training (RESET) Programme. The aim is to support retired athletes’ career development through education, internships, and skill enhancement. Eligibility includes retired athletes aged 20-50, with achievements in recognized events. The program offers 16 specialized courses like Strength & Conditioning, Sports Nutrition, Yoga, and Sports Entrepreneurship. It combines academic learning with internships to provide practical exposure. The objective is to fill the human resource gap in the sports sector and offer career paths for retired athletes.

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The National Pension Scheme (NPS) Vatsalya, launched in September 2024, allows parents or guardians to invest on behalf of children. It is designed for Indian minors (under 18) and regulated by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA). The scheme offers an interest rate between 9.5% and 10%, making it a valuable financial tool for children’s future. It promotes early saving habits and financial planning for minors. The account is in the child’s name, managed by a guardian, with the child as the sole beneficiary.

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ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA) developed the Rangeen Machhli app with support from Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to boost the ornamental fish industry. The app provides multilingual, reliable guidance on ornamental fish care, breeding, and maintenance in eight Indian languages. It supports hobbyists, farmers, and professionals, promoting informed fish-keeping practices and fostering community engagement. Key features include detailed fish care information, a “Find Aquarium Shops” tool for locating businesses, and educational modules on aquarium basics and ornamental aquaculture. The app promotes local businesses, empowers farmers, ensures reliable products, and fosters sustainability in the ornamental fish trade.

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The Union Government launched the ‘Jalvahak’ scheme to promote cargo movement via inland waterways. The scheme aims to reduce logistics costs, ease road and rail congestion, and unlock trade potential. Cargo owners transporting goods over 300 km via waterways can receive up to 35% reimbursement on operating costs. The scheme will last for three years and targets major shipping companies and trade bodies. It promotes transportation on National Waterways 1, 2, and 16. The scheme is implemented by Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and Inland & Coastal Shipping Ltd (ICSL).

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Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav launched ‘Jan Kalyan Parv’ and ‘Mukhya Mantri Jan Kalyan Abhiyan’ to highlight government initiatives and connect people to welfare schemes. ‘Jan Kalyan Parv’ (11-26 December) focuses on inaugurating and laying foundations for development works. ‘Mukhya Mantri Jan Kalyan Abhiyan’ (11 December-26 January) will conduct door-to-door surveys to link people to 34 schemes, 11 target-based schemes, and 63 services. CM announced a goal to increase the state’s economy share to 5% from 4%. Campaigns target the poor, youth, farmers, and women, linking them to 34 schemes, 11 target-based schemes, and 63 services.