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Type: Schemes

  • Rural Infrastructure Schemes

    [pib] PM-AJAY Scheme for Upliftment of SC Community

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: PM-AJAY Scheme

    Mains level: NA

    Central Idea

    • The Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment recently informed about the Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY) Scheme during 2023 year-end review.

    About PM-AJAY Scheme

    Details
    Launch Implemented since 2021-22
    Aim To reduce poverty of SC communities through employment generation, skill development, income generation, and infrastructure development.
    Nature 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme
    Components Development of SC dominated villages into ‘Adarsh Gram’

    Grants-in-aid for District/State-level Projects for socio-economic betterment of SCs

    Construction of Hostels in Higher Educational Institutions
    Merged Schemes Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAGY)

    Special Central Assistance to Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCA to SCSP)

    Babu Jagjivan Ram Chatrawas Yojana (BJRCY)
    Developments in Grants-in-Aid Component Financial assistance enhanced from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 50,000 or 50% of the asset cost, whichever is lesser, for beneficiary/household.

    Web-based portal developed for submission, appraisal, approval, and monitoring of Annual Action Plan.

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  • North-East India – Security and Developmental Issues

    Lapses in the implementation of PM-DevINE Scheme

    Prelims OnlySchemes | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: PM-DevINE Scheme

    Mains level: Not Much

    Central Idea

    • Only about 10% of the funds under the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE) have been sanctioned.

    About PM-DevINE Scheme

    Details
    Genesis of PM-DevINE – Introduced in Union Budget 2022-23

    – Approved by the Cabinet on 12th October 2022
    Funding 100% Central funding
    Implementing Ministry Ministry of Development of North-East Region
    Objectives – Infrastructure Development in line with PM GatiShakti

    – Supporting Social Development Projects

    – Empowering Youth and Women in the NER
    Project Implementation State-wise, project-wise list of projects approved for FY 2022-23, tailored to specific state needs

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  • Mother and Child Health – Immunization Program, BPBB, PMJSY, PMMSY, etc.

    Govt aims to set up 17,000 creches under Palna Scheme

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Palna Scheme

    Mains level: Read the attached story

    Central Idea

    • The Union Women and Child Development Ministry aims to establish 17,000 creches in Anganwadi centres across the country out of which 5,222 have been approved to date under the ‘Palna’ scheme.

    What is Palna Scheme?

    Details
    Objective To provide quality childcare facilities through Anganwadi-cum-Crèches, enabling women’s participation in the workforce
    Integration Part of the Samarthya sub-component of Mission Shakti, starting from April 2022

    National Creche Scheme (NCS) was revised and subsumed as part of the ‘Palna’ scheme under Mission Shakti.
    Focus Establishing combined Anganwadi and crèche facilities for comprehensive childcare
    Target Demographic Primarily urban areas where family-based childcare support is less available
    Standard Operating Procedure SOP released to outline administrative framework, roles, responsibilities, and monitoring mechanisms

     

    About National Crèche Scheme (NCS)

    Details
    Launch Rajiv Gandhi National Crèche Scheme (RGNCS) launched in 2006;

    From 2017, implemented as the National Crèche Scheme (NCS).
    Legal Provisions MGNREGA;

    Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act 2017.
    Objective To provide daycare facilities for children aged 6 months to 6 years of working mothers
    Target Group Children of working mothers, especially from economically weaker sections of society
    Childcare Services Daycare, supplementary nutrition, early childhood education, health check-ups
    Operational Hours Typically 7 to 8 hours a day, 26 days a month
    Age Group Children aged 6 months to 6 years
    Administration Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India
    Execution Through state governments, NGOs, and community-based organizations

    Try this PYQ from CSP 2019:

    Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017?

    1. Pregnant women are entitled for three months pre-delivery and three months post-delivery paid leave.
    2. Enterprises with creches must allow the mother minimum six creche visits daily.
    3. Women with more than two children get reduced entitlements.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

    Post your answers here.

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

    [pib] RAMP Programme

    Schemes | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: RAMP Programme

    Mains level: NA

    Central Idea

    • Union Minister for MSME launched three sub-schemes under the RAMP (Reforms and Acceleration in MSME Performance) programme.

    About RAMP Programme

    Details
    About World Bank assisted Central Sector Scheme.
    Launch FY 2022-23
    Supported By Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME), Government of India.
    Primary Aim – Improve access to market and credit for MSMEs.

    – Strengthen institutions and governance.

    – Enhance Centre-State linkages and partnerships.

    – Address delayed payments and promote greening of MSMEs.
    Key Components – Preparation of Strategic Investment Plans (SIPs) by states/UTs.

    – Apex National MSME Council for monitoring and policy overview.

    Details of the Launched Schemes

    MSME Green Investment and Financing for Transformation Scheme (MSME GIFT Scheme) MSE Scheme for Promotion and Investment in Circular Economy (MSE SPICE Scheme) MSE Scheme on Online Dispute Resolution for Delayed Payments
    Objective To assist MSMEs in adopting green technology. The government’s first scheme to support circular economy projects in the MSME sector. Combines legal support with IT tools and Artificial Intelligence to address delayed payments issues.
    Support Mechanisms Offers interest subvention and credit guarantee support. Aims to achieve zero emissions by 2070 through credit subsidy. Focused on aiding Micro and Small Enterprises.
    Unique Features – Encourages eco-friendly practices in MSMEs.

    – Financial incentives for green technology adoption.

    		 – Promotes sustainable and eco-friendly business models.

    – Supports long-term environmental goals.

    		 – Innovative use of technology for dispute resolution.

    – Aims to streamline payment processes and reduce conflicts.

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

    Sourcing FCI rice under OMSS to impact retail prices

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS)

    Mains level: Not Much

    Central Idea

    • The Department of Food and Public Distribution has proposed a plan to source rice from the Food Corporation of India (FCI) under the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS) for consumer sales.
    • The FCI is providing quality rice under OMSS at a reserve price of ₹29 per kg.

    About Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS)

    Details
    Purpose of OMSS To sell government-owned food grains (wheat and rice) in the open market to enhance supply and moderate prices, especially during lean seasons and in deficit regions.
    Implementing Agency Food Corporation of India (FCI)
    Components of OMSS 1. Sale of wheat to bulk consumers/private traders through e-auction.

    2. Sale of wheat through e-auction by dedicated movement.

    3. Sale of Raw Rice Grade ‘A’ to bulk consumers/private traders through e-auction.
    Method of Selling Through e-auction for transparency, conducted weekly using the platform of NCDEX (National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange Limited).
    Participants State Governments/Union Territory Administrations and private entities can participate in the e-auction.

    States procure additional food grains through OMSS for distribution under the National Food Security Act,2013 (NFSA).

    Impact on Rice Inflation

    • Current Inflation Rate: The annual inflation rate of rice has been around 12% for the past two years, accumulating over time and raising concerns.
    • Objective: The department aims to reduce this inflation rate and make rice more affordable for consumers.

    Significances of OMSS

    • Enhance the supply of food grains: The OMSS helps to enhance the supply of food grains, especially wheat, during the lean season and moderates the open market prices, especially in deficit regions.
    • Prevent wastage and deterioration of food grains: The OMSS also helps to prevent wastage and deterioration of food grains in FCI godowns due to a lack of storage space and proper maintenance.
    • Provides an alternative source of food grains: The OMSS provides an alternative source of food grains for bulk consumers, state governments, UTs and private parties who participate in various schemes and programmes such as ethanol production under biofuel policy.
    • Generates revenue for the FCI: The OMSS generates revenue for the FCI and reduces its subsidy burden on the central government. The FCI sells food grains under OMSS at pre-determined prices which are higher than the minimum support prices (MSPs) paid to farmers for procurement.

    Challenges faced by OMSS

    • Low demand from the buyers: The OMSS faces low demand from buyers due to high reserve prices fixed by the FCI, which are often above the market prices.
    • Logistical challenges: The OMSS also faces logistical challenges such as transportation, handling and quality issues of food grains, which affect the timely delivery and customer satisfaction. 
    • Limited impact on stabilizing the market prices: The OMSS has a limited impact on stabilizing the market prices as it accounts for a small share of the total food grain supply and demand in the country. 
    • Does not address the structural problems: The OMSS does not address the structural problems of food grain management such as procurement, distribution and buffer stocking policies, which need to be reformed to ensure food security and fiscal prudence. 

    Way forward

    • Revise the reserve prices of food grains: The FCI should revise the reserve prices of food grains under OMSS based on the prevailing market conditions and demand-supply situation to attract more buyers and clear the excess stocks.
    • Improve logistics and quality management: The FCI should improve its logistics and quality management system to ensure timely delivery and good quality of food grains under OMSS. 
    • Diversify product portfolio: The FCI should diversify its product portfolio under OMSS to include coarse grains, pulses and oilseeds, which are also essential for nutrition security and have a higher demand in the market.
    • Coordinate with state governments: The FCI should coordinate with state governments, UTs and other stakeholders to ensure effective implementation and monitoring of OMSS and address any grievances or complaints arising from it. 

    Back2basics

    Food Corporation of India (FCI)

    • It is a statutory body set up in 1965 (under the Food Corporation Act, 1964) under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Government of India.
    • It was set up against the backdrop of a major shortage of grains, especially wheat, in the country.
    • Currently, FCI is mandated with three basic objectives:
    1. To provide effective price support to farmers;
    2. To procure and supply grains to PDS for distributing subsidised staples to economically vulnerable sections of society; and
    3. Keep a strategic reserve to stabilise markets for basic foodgrains.

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  • Forest Conservation Efforts – NFP, Western Ghats, etc.

    [pib] Indian Forest and Wood Certification Scheme

    Schemes | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Indian Forest and Wood Certification Scheme

    Mains level: Not Much

    Central Idea

    • The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change has introduced the Indian Forest & Wood Certification Scheme to promote sustainable management of forests and trees outside forests.

    Understanding Forest Certification

    • Definition: Forest certification is a process for evaluating the quality of timber, wood, pulp products, and non-timber forest products against set standards.
    • Purpose: It ensures that forest products are sourced from responsibly managed forests or recycled materials.

    Forest and Wood Certification Scheme

    • Voluntary Certification: The scheme offers voluntary third-party certification to encourage sustainable forest management and agroforestry.
    • Certification Types: Includes Forest Management Certificates, Trees outside Forest Management Certificate, and chain of custody certification.
    • Standards: The Forest Management certification is based on the Indian Forest Management Standard, which includes 8 criteria, 69 indicators, and 254 verifiers.

    Implementation and Oversight

    • Scheme Operating Agency: The Indian Institute of Forest Management, Bhopal, will manage the scheme.
    • Accreditation Body: The Quality Council of India will accredit certification bodies to assess adherence to the standards.
    • Advisory Council: The Indian Forest and Wood Certification Council, comprising members from various eminent institutions and ministries, will oversee the scheme.

    Significance of Forest Certification

    • Buyer Assurance: Helps buyers identify products sourced from well-managed forests or recycled materials.
    • Discouraging Illegal Sources: Aims to reduce the use of supplies from illegal sources.
    • Holistic Benefits: Ensures that forest activities contribute to environmental, social, and economic benefits.

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  • Trade Sector Updates – Falling Exports, TIES, MEIS, Foreign Trade Policy, etc.

    US, EU slap Countervailing Duties on 4 Indian goods

    Prelims OnlySchemes | 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: Countervailing Duties (CVDs), RODTEP Scheme

    Mains level: Read the attached story

    Central Idea

    • The US and the European Union have imposed countervailing duties (CVDs) on select Indian products such as paper file folders, common alloy aluminum sheet, and forged steel fluid end blocks.
    • These measures are in retaliation against India’s Remission of Duties and Taxes on Export Products (RoDTEP) scheme, initiated in January 2021.

    About Countervailing Duties (CVDs)

    Details
    Definition Tariffs imposed to neutralize the adverse effects of subsidies provided by a foreign government to their export industries.
    Purpose To protect domestic industries from unfair competition due to imports subsidized by the exporting country’s government.
    Investigation & Imposition Requires a domestic investigation to confirm the presence of subsidies and their impact on domestic industries.
    WTO Compliance Imposition of CVDs must comply with World Trade Organization rules.
    Types of Subsidies Includes direct transfers of funds, tax concessions, loan guarantees, and provision of goods/services at a discount.
    Calculation The duty amount is typically equivalent to the value of the foreign subsidy.
    Duration Not permanent; imposed for a specific period and subject to review and removal.
    Global Use Frequently used by countries like the United States, European Union, Canada, and India.
    Controversy and Disputes Can lead to trade disputes, viewed by some as protectionist or unjustified.
    Impact on Prices May result in higher prices for affected goods in the importing country due to increased import costs.

     India’s Response to the Duties

    • Government and Exporters’ Defense: The Indian government and affected exporters have actively defended against the subsidy allegations. Their defense covered various programs and schemes at both the Central and State levels in India.
    • Method of Defense: The defense was presented through written and oral responses during the investigations.

    Potential WTO Dispute

    • India’s Stance on Dispute Resolution: Minister of State for Commerce and Industry indicated India’s openness to bilateral resolution.
    • WTO Dispute Settlement Mechanism: Any party could approach the WTO Dispute Settlement mechanism if they believe a WTO member has adopted measures inconsistent with WTO agreements.

    Conclusion

    • Growing Trade Tensions: The imposition of CVDs by the US and EU signifies escalating trade tensions with India, particularly concerning the RoDTEP scheme.
    • Impact on Indian Exports: These duties could potentially impact Indian exporters, affecting trade dynamics between India and these global economic powers.
    • Prospect of WTO Involvement: The possibility of this dispute reaching the WTO highlights the complexities of international trade laws and the need for careful navigation of global trade policies.

    Back2Basics: RoDTEP Scheme

    Details
    Introduction Announced in 2020, replacing the Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS).
    Objective To refund taxes and duties on exported products not covered under any other scheme, enhancing export competitiveness.
    Scope and Coverage Covers various sectors, beneficial for a wide range of industries, including those not covered under MEIS.
    Rebate Rates Varies based on the taxes and duties incurred on the production and distribution of the exported product.
    Eligibility Exporters must comply with criteria including the condition that goods must be manufactured in India.
    Claim Process Rebate claimed as a transferable duty credit/electronic scrip, maintained in an electronic ledger.
    Implementation Implemented by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and Customs Department.
    Impact Aims to make Indian exports more competitive globally by offsetting domestic taxes and levies.
    Compliance with WTO Designed to comply with India’s commitments under the WTO framework.
    Process Fully digital and transparent process for claiming rebates, reducing the compliance burden on exporters.

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  • Tribes in News

    PM-JANMAN Scheme for PVTGs

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: PM-JANMAN Scheme

    Mains level: Not Much

    Central Idea

    • The Union Tribal Ministry informed the Rajya Sabha that the population of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) is not declining, contrary to earlier data.
    • The Pradhan Mantri-Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) aims to provide basic facilities to PVTGs, with a significant budget allocation.

    Who are the PVTGs?

    • Definition and Characteristics: PVTGs, formerly known as Primitive Tribal Groups, are identified by criteria like declining population, pre-agrarian technology, economic backwardness, and low literacy.
    • Distribution: Spread across 18 States and Union Territories, India has 75 PVTGs, with the highest numbers in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.
    • Historical Context: These groups inhabit remote areas and have historically been among the most vulnerable sections of Scheduled Tribes.

    PM-JANMAN: Objectives and Funding

    • Mission Goals: The mission, announced earlier in the year, focuses on improving infrastructure and basic amenities in PVTG areas.
    • Budget Allocation: The Cabinet approved a ₹24,000 crore package, with contributions from both the central and state governments.
    • Implementation Strategy: The program involves nine ministries and aims to enhance housing, connectivity, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities in PVTG villages.

    Challenges in Implementation

    • Data Gaps: A key challenge is the lack of current and accurate data on PVTG populations and socio-economic conditions.
    • Baseline Surveys: While surveys are being conducted, their results are not yet public, and there has been no separate Census for PVTGs since 1951.
    • Recommendations: The National Advisory Council suggested conducting a specific Census for PVTGs to better understand their needs in education, health, and housing.

    Conclusion

    • Critical Need for Accurate Data: Effective implementation of development projects for PVTGs hinges on having reliable data.
    • Holistic Approach: The government’s initiative reflects a comprehensive approach to improving the living standards of PVTGs, addressing various aspects of their well-being.
    • Continued Monitoring and Evaluation: Ongoing assessment and adaptation of strategies will be crucial to ensure the success of these development efforts for PVTGs.

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  • Skilling India – Skill India Mission,PMKVY, NSDC, etc.

    PM Vishwakarma Scheme: Empowering Traditional Craftspeople

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: PM Vishwakarma Scheme

    Mains level: Not Much

    vishwakarma

    Central Idea

    • The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, launched by the Centre on September 17, has received over 21 lakh applications in two and a half months, data from the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) show.

    PM Vishwakarma Scheme

    • The PM Vishwakarma Scheme boasts an impressive allocation of Rs 13,000 crore, fully funded by the Central government.
    • It aims to benefit individuals predominantly from the OBC community engaged in traditional skills and crafts such as carpentry, gold-smithing, masonry, laundry services, and more.
    • The scheme derives its name from Vishwakarma, a revered figure in Hindu mythology known as the architect of the gods.
    • Vishwakarma was the divine carpenter and master craftsman responsible for crafting the gods’ weapons, building their cities and chariots.
    • He is considered the patron deity of workers, artisans, and artists.

    Eligibility for the Scheme

    • Supported Sectors: The PM Vishwakarma Scheme extends assistance to families associated with 18 diverse sectors, including carpentry, boat making, blacksmithing, goldsmithing, pottery, and more.
    • Registration: Vishwakarma workers can register for free through Common Services Centres using the biometric-based PM Vishwakarma portal.

    Features of the Scheme

    • Recognition: Workers will receive recognition through the PM Vishwakarma certificate and ID card.
    • Skill Upgradation: The scheme offers basic and advanced training to enhance skills.
    • Toolkit Incentive: Artisans receive a toolkit incentive of ₹15,000.
    • Credit Support: Collateral-free credit support is provided up to ₹1 lakh (first tranche) and ₹2 lakh (second tranche) at a concessional interest rate of 5%.
    • Digital Transactions: Incentives for digital transactions and marketing support are available.
    • Knowledge Enhancement: A toolkit booklet, available in 12 Indian languages with accompanying videos, helps workers stay updated on new technologies in their field.
    • Skill Training Stipend: Artisans can benefit from a stipend of Rs 500 for skill training and Rs 1,500 for purchasing modern tools.
    • Coverage: The scheme aims to cover five lakh families in the first year and 30 lakh families over five years.
    • Global Integration: It also seeks to integrate Vishwakarma into domestic and global value chains.

    Need for such scheme

    • Traditional craftsmen and skilled artisans, often taught these crafts by family elders, have encountered several hurdles.
    • These include a lack of professional training, access to modern tools, geographical remoteness from relevant markets, and limited capital for investment.

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  • Promoting Science and Technology – Missions,Policies & Schemes

    Centre approves fourth phase roll-out of GIAN Scheme

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

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: GIAN Scheme

    Mains level: NA

    Central Idea

    • The Ministry of Education is preparing to restart the fourth phase of Global Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN) scheme.

    Global Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN)

    • The GIAN was initiated in 2015.
    • It is a project under the Ministry of Education.
    • Coordinating Body: IIT Kharagpur
    • Purpose: To harness the expertise of international scientists and entrepreneurs, fostering their involvement with Indian higher education institutions.
    • This initiative aims to enhance India’s academic resources, speed up quality improvements, and raise India’s scientific and technological standards to a globally competitive level.

    Key Components of GIAN

    • Foreign experts receive an honorarium to cover their travel and other expenses.
    • These international experts/faculties conduct short-term courses in Indian institutions.
    • Initially aimed at fostering India-USA collaborations, the program later expanded its reach.
    • Course durations vary, ranging from a minimum of one week to a maximum of three weeks.
    • Foreign experts can receive a total payment of up to US$ 8000 (~ ₹7 lakh) for 12 to 14 hours of teaching and up to US$ 12000 (~ ₹12 lakh) for 20 to 28 hours, covering their travel and honorarium.

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