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  • Industrial Sector Updates – Industrial Policy, Ease of Doing Business, etc.

    [pib] Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme

    Why in the News?

    The Department of Commerce under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has launched the Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme to bolster the global competitiveness of India’s diamond sector.

    About the Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme

    • The DIA Scheme permits duty-free import of natural cut and polished diamonds for export purposes.
    • It mandates an export obligation with a value addition of 10%.
    • Objective: To retain India’s leadership in the global diamond industry value chain by facilitating ease of doing business.
    • It will be implemented starting April 1, 2025.
    • Features of the Scheme:
      • Duty-Free Import: Allows duty-free import of natural cut and polished diamonds of less than ¼ Carat (25 Cents).
      • Export Obligation: Requires a minimum 10% value addition to ensure beneficiation.
      • Eligibility: Open to Two Star Export Houses and above; Exporters with annual exports of at least USD 15 million are eligible.
      • Support for MSMEs: Provides a level playing field for smaller exporters, enabling them to compete with larger players.
      • Global Beneficiation Practices: Inspired by beneficiation policies in diamond-mining countries like Botswana, Namibia, and Angola, where manufacturers must establish cutting and polishing facilities.

    India’s Diamond Industry: Current Status

    • India processes over 90% of the world’s diamonds and provides jobs to approximately 5 million people.
    • India contributes 19% of total global diamond exports.

    Challenges:

    • Exports Decline:
      • 2022: Exports valued at $23 billion.
      • 2023: Declined to $16 billion, with further declines anticipated.
    • Rough Diamond Imports: Fell by 24.5%, from $18.5 billion (FY 2021-22) to $14 billion (FY 2023-24).
    • Exports of Cut and Polished Diamonds: Dropped by 34.6%, from $24.4 billion (FY 2022) to $13.1 billion (FY 2024).
    • Inventory Challenges: The gap between net imports of rough diamonds and net exports of cut and polished diamonds widened from $1.6 billion (FY 2022) to $4.4 billion (FY 2024).
    • Returns of Unsold Diamonds: The percentage of unsold diamonds returned to India rose from 35% to 45.6% between FY 2022 and FY 2024.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Which one of the following foreign travellers elaborately discussed about diamonds and diamond mines of India?

    (a) Francois Bernier

    (b) Jean-Baptiste Tavernier

    (c) Jean de Thevenot

    (d) Abbe Barthelemy Carre

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  • Digital India Initiatives

    [pib] Internet Governance Internship and Capacity Building (IGICB) Scheme

    Prelims OnlySchemes | Governance | Mains Paper 2: E-Governance

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: IGICB Scheme, NIXI

    Why in the News?

    The National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) has introduced the Internet Governance Internship and Capacity Building Scheme, aiming to enhance awareness and develop expertise in Internet Governance (IG) among Indian citizens.

    About Internet Governance Internship and Capacity Building (IGICB) Scheme: 

    Details
    About the Scheme
    • Launched by National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) under MeitY.
    • Aims to build expertise in Internet Governance (IG) and enable global participation.

    Aims and Objectives:

    • Develop Expertise: Build Indian talent in Internet Governance.
    • Enhance Global Participation: Collaborate with organisations like ICANN, ISOC, and IETF.
    • Promote Digital Inclusivity: Ensure India’s representation in global forums.
    • Foster Leadership: Shape future tech policy leaders.
    Structural Mandate
    • Tracks: Six-month and three-month internship programs.
    • Mentorship: Guided by experts from ICANN, APNIC, and academic advisors.
    • Support Mechanism: Stipend of ₹20,000/month and support for outreach programs.
    • Online Portal: Applications via NIXI Scheme Portal, with biometric verification.
    Features of the Scheme
    • Global Exposure: Collaboration with leading organisations like ICANN, ISOC, and IEEE.
    • Capacity Building: Focus on cybersecurity, Internet Governance, and digital policy.
    • Mentorship: Hands-on guidance by seasoned professionals.
    • Youth Engagement: Attracts young talent passionate about Internet Governance.
    • Policy Impact: Strengthens India’s voice in global Internet Governance forums.

     

    What is National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI)?

    • Establishment: Founded on June 19, 2003, under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
    • Purpose: A not-for-profit organisation facilitating increased internet penetration and adoption across India.
    • Key Services:
    1. Internet Exchange Points (IXPs): Builds infrastructure for internet exchange points.
    2. .IN Registry: Promotes .in domain digital identity.
    3. IRINN: Facilitates adoption of IPv4 and IPv6 addresses.

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  • Start-up Ecosystem In India

    [pib] 9 Years of Startup India

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Startup India Initiative

    Why in the News?

    On January 16 (National Startup Day), 2025, India marks 9 successful years of Startup India, a flagship initiative that has revolutionized the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the country.

    About the Startup India Initiative

    • Startup India is a flagship initiative launched by the Government of India on January 16, 2016, to create a robust ecosystem for nurturing startups and innovation.
    • It aims to drive economic growth and generate large-scale employment opportunities, with a focus on empowering entrepreneurs through innovation and regulatory support.
    • The PM first announced the initiative on August 15, 2015, during his Independence Day address at Red Fort, New Delhi.
    • The program aims to establish 75+ startup hubs across India and encourages entrepreneurship in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
      • A related scheme, Stand-Up India, was launched on April 5, 2016, to facilitate loans between ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore for SCs, STs and women entrepreneurs to establish Greenfield enterprises.
    • The program emphasizes the 3 Cs—Capital, Courage, and Connections, which Prime Minister Modi identifies as essential for entrepreneurial success.
    • It seeks to eliminate restrictive policies, including those related to License Raj, foreign investment proposals, and land permissions, ensuring ease of doing business.

    Definition of a Startup (as per DPIIT)

    • A startup must be registered as a private limited company, partnership firm, or limited liability partnership (LLP) in India.
    • The entity must not have completed 10 years since its incorporation.
    • Annual turnover should not exceed ₹100 crore in any financial year since incorporation.
    • The startup should focus on innovative products or services and demonstrate scalability, potential for wealth creation, or employment generation.
    • Entities formed through splitting or restructuring of existing businesses are not classified as startups.
    • Startup related terminologies analogously used in India:
      • Unicorn: A startup valued at over $1 billion.
      • Decacorn: A startup valued at over $10 billion.
      • Hectocorn: A startup valued at over $100 billion.
      • Soonicorn: A rapidly growing startup expected to become a unicorn soon.
      • Mincorn: A startup valued at less than $1 billion.

    Key Achievements of Startup India

    • India is the third-largest startup hub globally, following the United States and China.
    • DPIIT-recognized startups grew from 500 in 2016 to 1,59,157 by January 2025.
    • Women-led startups accounted for 73,151 entities as of October 2024, with 48% of startups having at least one woman director by December 2023.
    • Startups have generated 16.6 lakh direct jobs from 2016 to October 2024.
    • Over 50% of startups originated from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, including emerging hubs like Indore, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad.

    Key Government Initiatives for Startups:

    • Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS), 2021: Provides financial assistance to early-stage startups for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry, and commercialization.
      • Total allocated amount: ₹945 crore for startups over a four-year period.
    • Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS), 2022: Offers collateral-free loans to startups through Scheduled Commercial Banks, NBFCs, and SEBI-registered AIFs.
      • Covers loans up to ₹10 crore for eligible startups.
    • Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS), 2016: Established with a ₹10,000 crore corpus to provide funding support to startups through SEBI-registered Venture Capital Funds.
      • By 2024, ₹7,980 crore was committed to 99 Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), benefiting over 800 startups.
    • BHASKAR (Bharat Startup Knowledge Access Registry), 2024: A centralized platform aimed at streamlining interactions within India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
      • Fosters innovation, collaboration, and startup growth through knowledge-sharing and networking.
    • Startup Village Entrepreneurship Program (SVEP): A sub-component of the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development.
      • Supported 3,02,825 enterprises as of 2024, creating 6,26,848 jobs.
    • TIDE 2.0 (Technology Incubation and Development of Entrepreneurs): Focuses on supporting startups in emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and Blockchain.
      • Established 51 incubators and supported 1,235 startups.
    • GENESIS (Gen-Next Support for Innovative Startups), 2024: Aims to boost startups in Tier-II and Tier-III cities.
      • Total outlay: ₹490 crore over five years, targeting over 1,500 startups.
    • Atal Innovation Mission (AIM): Operates under NITI Aayog to foster innovation and entrepreneurship through the establishment of Atal Incubation Centers (AICs).
      • Provides physical infrastructure and mentorship for startups to scale effectively.
    • Startup Mahakumbh: A flagship event organized to bring together startups, unicorns, investors, and industry leaders.
      • First edition in 2019 saw over 500 participants; the fifth edition is scheduled for March 7-8, 2025, in New Delhi.

    PYQ:

    [2014] What does venture capital mean?

    (a) A short-term capital provided to industries

    (b) A long-term start-up capital provided to new entrepreneurs

    (c) Funds provided to industries at times of incurring losses

    (d) Funds provided for replacement and renovation of industries

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  • Industrial Sector Updates – Industrial Policy, Ease of Doing Business, etc.

    [pib] Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme 1.1

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: PLI Scheme 1.1

    Why in the News?

    Union Minister for Steel and Heavy Industries has inaugurated the second round of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Specialty Steel, termed PLI Scheme 1.1.

    About the PLI Scheme 1.1

    • It is built upon the earlier round of the PLI scheme to enhance domestic manufacturing of high-value steel, reduce imports, and boost India’s global steel market position.
    • 5 specialty steel categories are considered:
      1. Coated/Plated Steel Products for appliances, construction, and automotive sectors.
      2. High Strength/Wear-Resistant Steel for infrastructure, mining, and heavy machinery.
      3. Specialty Rails for railways and metros.
      4. Alloy Steel Products and Steel Wires for industrial uses.
      5. Electrical Steel (CRGO and others): Cold-Rolled Grain-Oriented Steel, essential for power transformers and electrical applications.
    • It covers production from FY 2025-26 to FY 2029-30 and operates within the original budget of ₹6,322 crore.
    • Changes introduced in PLI Scheme 1.1:
      • Investment and capacity thresholds reduced:
        • For CRGO Steel: Investment threshold lowered to ₹3,000 crore; capacity threshold to 50,000 tonnes.
        • Encourages CRGO production as a strategic priority under Atmanirbharta.
      • Carry-forward provision: Excess production in one year can offset shortfalls in another, ensuring optimal incentive distribution.
      • Companies investing in capacity augmentation can participate; thresholds reduced to 50% of original requirements.
      • Simplified guidelines: Revised to improve accessibility and encourage industry participation.

    Bakc2Basics: PLI Schemes 1.0 and 2.0

    PLI Scheme 1.0

    • Launched in March 2020, it aimed to boost domestic manufacturing, reduce imports, and create jobs in key sectors.
    • Initially focused on three industries (mobile manufacturing, electrical components, and medical devices) but later expanded to 14 sectors, including electronics, pharmaceuticals, and textiles.
    • Provided 1%–4% incentives on incremental sales over the base year, with a ₹7,350 crore outlay for IT hardware.
    • Had an estimated investment target of ₹2,500 crore (IT hardware) but did not specify details on job creation.
    • Served as a cornerstone for Atmanirbhar Bharat, promoting self-reliance and innovation in India’s manufacturing ecosystem.

    PLI Scheme 2.0

    • Launched in May 2023, it specifically focuses on IT hardware (laptops, tablets, servers, PCs) to enhance global competitiveness.
    • Comes with a higher budget of ₹17,000 crore (for IT hardware) over a 6-year duration.
    • Incentivizes local manufacturing with ~5% incentives on incremental sales, alongside additional benefits for components like memory modules and SSDs.
    • Targets ₹2,430 crore in investment, ₹3.35 lakh crore in production, and $12–17 billion in exports by 2025–26.
    • Seeks to create 75,000 direct jobs and up to 2 lakh indirect jobs, offering different incentive caps for global, hybrid, and domestic companies.

     

    PYQ:

    [2023] Consider, the following statements:

    Statement-I: India accounts for 3.2% of global export 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

    (c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect

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

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  • Industrial Sector Updates – Industrial Policy, Ease of Doing Business, etc.

    Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme Versions 1.0 vs 2.0 Comparison

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

    PLI 1.0

    PLI 2.0
    Launch Year March 2020 May 2023
    Objective Promote domestic manufacturing, reduce imports, create jobs Enhance IT hardware manufacturing, increase global competitiveness
    Budget ₹7,350 crore (for IT hardware) ₹17,000 crore (for IT hardware)
    Duration 4 years 6 years
    Incentive Structure 1% – 4% of incremental sales over the base year ~5% of incremental sales over six years
    Sectors Covered
    • Initially focused on 3 sectors: Mobile manufacturing, electrical components, and medical devices.
    • Later expanded to 14 sectors, including: Specified electronic components, critical key starting materials (pharma), auto components, pharma drugs, specialty steel, telecom and networking, electronics/technology products, white goods (ACs, LEDs), food products, textiles (MMF/technical textiles), high-efficiency solar PV modules, advanced chemistry cell (ACC) batteries, drones
    		 Primarily IT hardware (laptops, tablets, servers, PCs)
    Component Incentives No additional incentives for specific components Additional incentives for local component manufacturing (e.g., memory modules, SSDs)
    Expected Investment ₹2,500 crore (estimated) ₹2,430 crore (estimated)
    Employment Generation Not specified in detail 75,000 direct jobs, up to 2 lakh indirect jobs
    Production and Export Targets Not explicitly stated ₹3.35 lakh crore production; $12-17 billion exports by 2025-26
    Eligibility and Caps Domestic companies with minimum investment of ₹20 crore Global, hybrid, and domestic companies with caps (₹4,500 crore for global, ₹2,250 crore for hybrid, ₹500 crore for domestic)

     

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

    [pib] UJALA: 10 Years of Energy-Efficient Lighting

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: UJALA scheme

    Why in the News?

    The UJALA (Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All) scheme, launched on January 5, 2015 has completed a decade of remarkable success.

    About UJALA Scheme:

    Launch Details
    • Launched on 5th January 2015 by PM Narendra Modi.
    • Originally called the Domestic Efficient Lighting Programme (DELP).
    • Aims to promote energy-efficient LED appliances in households.
    • Recognized as the world’s largest zero-subsidy domestic lighting initiative.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation
    • Implemented by Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) under the Ministry of Power.
    • Competitive bidding ensures reduced prices for LED appliances.
    • LED appliances distributed via DISCOMs and designated centers.
    • Real-time e-procurement and transparency audits ensure accountability.
    Significant Features
    • Affordability: LED prices significantly lower than market rates (e.g., ₹70 per bulb, ₹220 per tube light).
    • Energy Efficiency: LEDs consume 90% less energy than incandescent lamps (ICLs) and 50% less than CFLs.
    • Cost Savings: Reduced electricity bills and lower annual ownership costs.
    • Market Transformation: Sale of over 407 crore LED bulbs in India.
    • Environmental Impact: Reduction in carbon emissions, aligning with India’s climate goals.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] With reference to street lighting, how do sodium lamps differ from LED lamps?

    1. Sodium lamps produce light in 360 degrees but it is not so in the case of LED lamps.
    2. As street lights, sodium lamps have a longer lifespan than LED lamps.
    3. The spectrum of visible light from sodium lamps is almost monochromatic while LED lamps offer significant colour advantages in street lighting.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 3 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

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  • Indian Navy Updates

    What is Coastal Security Scheme (CSS)?

    Prelims OnlySchemes | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Coastal Security Scheme

    Why in the News?

    Non-operational patrolling boats, insufficient funds for training, and manpower shortages are among the challenges highlighted by 13 coastal states and Union Territories during a review of the Coastal Security Scheme (CSS) phases I and II.

    What is the Coastal Security Scheme?

    • CSS was launched to strengthen security across India’s 7,516.6 km coastline, including 1,382 offshore islands, in order to prevent unauthorized entry, smuggling, and infiltration.
    • It is overseen by the Department of Border Management, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), in collaboration with coastal States/UTs and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).
    • Core Objective: Bolster coastal security by enhancing infrastructure, resources, and coordination among central and state agencies, ensuring effective maritime surveillance and prompt emergency response.

    Implementation Phases

    • Phase I (2005–2011)
      • Budget: ₹646 crore
      • Established 73 coastal police stations, 97 check-posts, 58 outposts, 30 barracks, 204 interceptor boats, 153 jeeps, and 312 motorcycles.
    • Phase II (2011–2020)
      • Budget: ₹1,579.91 crore
      • Added 131 coastal police stations, 60 jetties, 10 marine operational centers, 225 boats, 131 four-wheelers, and 242 motorcycles.

    Key Features

    • Infrastructure Development: Construction of coastal police stations, jetties, outposts, barracks, and marine operation centers.
    • Marine Patrolling: Deployment of interceptor boats for rapid response and improved surveillance.
    • Manpower & Training: Specialized marine police personnel trained at the National Academy of Coastal Policing (Gujarat).
    • Technological Integration: Collaboration with the Coastal Surveillance Network (CSN) for real-time monitoring and swift threat detection.

    Current Status

    • Phase III Plans:
      • Upgraded Boats & Equipment: Introducing larger, more stable vessels and better maintenance.
      • More Manpower: Focused recruitment and specialized training for marine police.
      • Infrastructure Expansion: Building new jetties and operational centers, backed by adequate funding.
      • Insurance Coverage: Proposals to protect marine police personnel operating in high-risk conditions.

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  • Animal Husbandry, Dairy & Fisheries Sector – Pashudhan Sanjivani, E- Pashudhan Haat, etc

    Matsya Seva Kendras

    Schemes | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Economics Of Animal-Rearing

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Matsya Seva Kendras

    Why in the News?

    India’s fisheries sector, contributing to the livelihoods of over 3 crore fishers and producing a record 175 lakh tons of fish in 2022-23, is being strengthened through initiatives like Matsya Seva Kendras.

    About Matsya Seva Kendra (MSK)

    • MSKs are one-stop centers established under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to support fishers and fish farmers.
    • They provide a wide range of technical, advisory, and capacity-building services aimed at modernizing the fisheries sector and ensuring sustainable practices.
    • Role of MSKs:
      • Offer water, soil, and microbial analysis to address disease management and improve aquaculture productivity.
      • Conduct capacity-building programs for fishers, focusing on sustainable practices and advanced aquaculture techniques.
      • Empower women and weaker sections with 60% financial assistance for setting up MSKs.
      • Mobilize start-ups, cooperatives, and fish farmer producer organizations to share best practices.
      • Promote regenerative and conservation practices to tackle challenges posed by climate change.

    About Pradhan Mantri Matsya Samapada Yojana (PMMSY):

    • The scheme aims to bring about a Blue Revolution through sustainable and responsible development of India’s fisheries sector.
    • It was launched as part of the ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’ package with an investment of ₹20,050 crore, the highest-ever allocation for the fisheries sector.
    • It is implemented across all States and Union Territories from FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25.
    • It provides insurance coverage, financial assistance, and Kisan Credit Card (KCC) facilities to fishers.
    • It is implemented as an umbrella scheme with two components:
      • Central Sector Scheme: Entirely funded by the Central Government.
      • Centrally Sponsored Scheme: Cost shared between the Centre and States/UTs.

    How Do Sagar Mitras Support Fishers?

    • Sagar Mitras act as a vital link between the government and sea-borne fishers, facilitating access to information and resources in coastal regions.
    • Role of Sagar Mitras:
      • Collect data on marine catch, price trends, and market requirements.
      • Provide updates on local regulations, weather conditions, and potential fishing zones.
      • Educate fishers on hygienic fish handling, sustainable fishing techniques, and compliance with regulatory measures.
      • Act as a key contact during emergencies, offering information on natural calamities and safety protocols.

    PYQ:

    [2018] Defining the Blue Revolution, explain the problems and strategies of fisheries in India. 

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  • Land Reforms

    Govt to issue over 5.8 million SVAMITVA Property Cards

    Schemes | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: SVAMITVA Scheme

    Why in the News?

    Over 58 lakh property cards will be issued to owners in approximately 50,000 villages across 12 States/UTs through a virtual event addressed by PM Modi under the SVAMITVA Scheme.

    About SVAMITVA Scheme:

    Details
    About
    • Full Form: Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas.
    • Launched on 24th April 2020 (National Panchayati Raj Day) by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj.
    • Objective: Provide an integrated property validation solution for rural India, issuing Record of Rights to households in inhabited rural areas (village abadi areas).
    • Central Sector Scheme: Fully funded by the Central Government, implemented in collaboration with States/UTs and the Survey of India.

    Primary Goals:
    1. Demarcation of inhabited areas using drone technology.
    2. Creation of property cards (Record of Rights).
    3. Formalizing ownership to reduce disputes and enable financial asset use.
    Structural Mandate Implementing Agencies:

    • Ministry of Panchayati Raj at the national level.
    • State Revenue Department/Land Records Department at the state level.
    • Survey of India (as the technology partner).

    Coverage:

    • The scheme is being implemented in phases from 2020-2024.
    • Initially covered 6.62 lakh villages in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Karnataka, including a few border villages of Punjab and Rajasthan.
    • West Bengal, Bihar, Nagaland, and Meghalaya have not joined the scheme yet.
    • Nomenclature: Title Deed in Haryana, Rural Property Ownership Records (RPOR) in Karnataka, Adhikar Abhilekh in Madhya Pradesh, Sannad in Maharashtra, Svamitva Abhilekh in Uttarakhand, and Gharauni in Uttar Pradesh.
    Key Features and Significance
    • Use of Drone Survey Technology: Drones capture high-resolution images for accurate mapping of village abadi lands.
    • Issuance of Property Cards: Known by various names (e.g., ‘Gharauni’ in UP). Serves as legal proof of ownership.
    • Phased Implementation (2020–2024): Began in select states (UP, Haryana, Maharashtra, MP, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, plus border villages in Punjab/Rajasthan), expanding nationwide.
    • Continuous Operating Reference System (CORS): Network stations for precise drone-based surveys in pilot-phase states.
    • Stakeholder Collaboration: Ministry of Panchayati Raj, State Revenue/Land Records Depts, Survey of India, etc.
    Progress Made So Far
    • Drone Surveys & Mapping: 92% of targeted drone mapping completed across 3.17 lakh villages; full targets likely by 2026.
    • Issuance of Property Cards: Over 2.19 crore property cards finalized; latest distribution covered 58 lakh cards in 50,000 villages across 12 States/UTs.
    • Phased Rollout: Successful pilots led to larger-scale implementation.
    • Collaborative Efforts: Coordination among Panchayati Raj Ministry, Survey of India, and state-level agencies; financial support from the Centre.
    • Recognition of Success: Regarded as a landmark initiative for minimizing litigation, enhancing rural governance, and clarifying property rights.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] With reference to land reforms in independent India, which one of the following statements is correct?

    (a) The ceiling laws were aimed at family holdings and not individual holdings.

    (b) The major aim of land reforms was providing agricultural land to all the landless.

    (c) It resulted in cultivation of cash crops as a predominant form of cultivation.

    (d) Land reforms permitted no exemptions to the ceiling limits.

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  • Food Procurement and Distribution – PDS & NFSA, Shanta Kumar Committee, FCI restructuring, Buffer stock, etc.

    Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA)

    Schemes | Economics | Mains Paper 3: PDS, Buffer Stock & Food Security

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan

    Why in the News?

    Since its launch, PM-AASHA has significantly benefitted farmers, contributing to the procurement of 195.39 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of agricultural commodities, valued at ₹1,07,433.73 crore, from over 99 lakh farmers.

    Procurement Details:

    • In the Rabi 2023-24 season, 6.41 LMT of pulses, valued at ₹4,820 crore, were procured from 2.75 lakh farmers. This included:
      • 2.49 LMT of Masoor
      • 43,000 metric tonnes of Chana
      • LMT of Moong
    • In addition, 12.19 LMT of oilseeds, valued at ₹6,900 crore, were procured from 5.29 lakh farmers.
    • In the ongoing Kharif season, the government has procured 5.62 LMT of Soyabean, valued at ₹2,700 crore, benefiting 2.42 lakh farmers.

    About the PM-AASHA Scheme

    Details Launched in 2018, PM-AASHA is an umbrella scheme encompassing various components to ensure farmers receive fair prices for their produce.
    Aims and Objectives
    • Ensuring fair prices for farmers by providing price support when market prices fall below the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
    • Stabilize the prices of essential commodities, benefiting both farmers and consumers.
    • Addressing price fluctuations and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices for crops like pulses, oilseeds, and copra.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation
    • Type: Central Sector Scheme (Fully funded by the Centre).
    • Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
    • Fund Allocation: Rs. 35,000 crore during the 15th Finance Commission Cycle (up to 2025-26).
    • Central Nodal Agencies (CNA):
      • Guarantees to lender banks for extending cash credit facilities to agencies like NAFED (National Agricultural Co-operative Marketing Federation of India Limited) and NCCF (National Co-operative Consumer’s Federation of India Limited) for MSP procurement.
      • Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) will procure pulses at market price from pre-registered farmers on eSamridhi Portal of NAFED and eSamyukti Portal of NCCF when prices exceed MSP.

    Key Components:

    • Price Support Scheme (PSS):
    • The PSS is the core component of PM-AASHA, operating through state governments to procure notified commodities at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) levels.
    • It provides financial relief to farmers when market prices fall below MSP, offering remunerative prices and promoting investment in agriculture.
    • The government fixes the MSP for 24 crops at 1.5 times the Cost of Production (CoP) to ensure a fair income for farmers.
    • Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS):
    • Under PDPS, farmers are provided direct payments if the market prices of oilseeds fall below the MSP.
    • It helps bridge the gap between MSP and market prices, ensuring that farmers still get a fair return.
    • Market Intervention Scheme (MIS):
    • The MIS provides financial assistance to states for price stabilization of perishable agricultural commodities like Tomato, Onion, and Potato, which are not covered under MSP.
    • This scheme helps manage price volatility and benefits both farmers and consumers by stabilizing prices.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] In India, the term “Public Key Infrastructure” is used in the context of:

    (a) Digital security infrastructure

    (b) Food security infrastructure

    (c) Health care and education infrastructure

    (d) Telecommunication and transportation infrastructure

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