Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM Matsya Sampada Yojana
Mains level: Read the attached story

Central Idea
- In 2020, as India’s fisheries sector was gearing up for a transformation through government-initiated reforms, the COVID-19 pandemic threatened to disrupt progress.
- However, PM Modi turned this crisis into an opportunity by launching the Atmanirbhar Bharat package, specifically targeting the fisheries sector.
- This initiative breathed new life into the sector, with a substantial allocation of ₹20,050 crore for the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), making it the largest-ever investment in Indian fisheries history.
About PM Matsya Sampada Yojana
Aim |
To catalyze the Blue Revolution in India’s fisheries sector. |
Investment |
Rs. 20,050 crores over five years (FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25) as part of Aatmanirbhar Bharat Package. |
Fish Production |
Increase fish production by an additional 70 lakh tonnes by 2024-25. |
Export Earnings |
Raise fisheries export earnings to Rs. 1,00,000 crore by 2024-25. |
Income Doubling |
Double the incomes of fishers and fish farmers. |
Post-Harvest Losses |
Reduce post-harvest losses from 20-25% to about 10%. |
Employment Generation |
Generate substantial employment opportunities in the fisheries sector. |
Aims and Objectives |
1. Sustainable and equitable fisheries development.
2. Increased productivity through diversification.
3. Modernizing the value chain. 4. Income doubling.
5. Boosting exports.
6. Ensuring security for fisheries communities.
7. Effective management. |
Implementation Components |
Central Sector Scheme and Centrally Sponsored Scheme with active state participation. |
Implementation Approach |
Structured framework and cluster-based approach for optimal outcomes |
Key Achievements of PMMSY
- Broad Development Spectrum: PMMSY addressed critical gaps in the fisheries value chain, spanning fish production, productivity, quality, technology, post-harvest infrastructure, and marketing.
- Strategic Priority Areas: The initiative strategically focused on various key areas, including marine fisheries, inland fisheries, fishermen’s welfare, infrastructure development, post-harvest management, cold water fisheries, ornamental fisheries, aquatic health management, and seaweed cultivation.
- Empowering Youth: PMMSY encouraged young entrepreneurs to venture into fisheries, fostering technological innovation and youth engagement. Notable success stories include young women in Kashmir rearing cold water rainbow trout and aquapreneurs in Nellore becoming successful exporters of biofloc-cultivated shrimps.
- Expanding to Non-Traditional Areas: The program expanded fisheries activities to non-traditional regions, converting saline wastelands into productive aquaculture zones in landlocked states like Haryana and Rajasthan.
- Empowering Fisherwomen: PMMSY empowered fisherwomen to explore alternative livelihoods, such as ornamental fisheries, pearl culture, and seaweed cultivation. The establishment of the ₹127 crore Seaweed Park in Tamil Nadu exemplifies this forward-looking approach.
- Infrastructure and Research: The initiative supported the establishment of 900 fish feed plants, 755 hatcheries, and invested in research and genetic improvement of Indian White Shrimp, specific pathogen-free brood stock development, and domestication of tiger shrimp.
Impact on India’s Fisheries Sector
- Global Recognition: India has risen to become one of the world’s top three countries in fish and aquaculture production and stands as the largest shrimp exporter globally.
- Investment Growth: The government’s commitment to the fisheries sector is evident, with recent announcements of ₹6,000 crore as a sub-scheme under PMMSY, totalling investments exceeding ₹38,500 crore over the past nine years.
- Record Production and Exports: India achieved record fisheries production of 174 lakh tonnes in 2022-23, marking a significant increase. Shrimp production alone surged by 267% from 2013-14 to 2022-23, reaching 11.84 lakh tonnes. Seafood exports doubled from ₹30,213 crore in 2013-14 to ₹63,969 crore in 2022-23.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ayushman Bhav Campaign
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The President of India, Mrs. Murmu, virtually launched the Ayushman Bhav campaign and the Ayushman Bhava portal.
Ayushman Bhav Campaign
- The Ayushman Bhav campaign aims to deliver healthcare services to the remotest corners of India, playing a pivotal role in achieving the campaign’s ambitious objectives.
- It is designed to ensure that every individual receives essential health services, aligning with the overarching goals of Ayushman Bhav.
- The campaign’s goals, include-
- Facilitating access to Ayushman cards
- Generating ABHA IDs
- Raising awareness about critical health schemes and disease conditions, such as non-communicable diseases, tuberculosis, and sickle cell disease.
Three Components of Ayushman Bhav:
- President highlighted the three integral components of Ayushman Bhav:
- Ayushman – Apke Dwar 3.0
- Ayushman Melas at Health and Wellness Centres (HWC) and Community Health Clinics (CHC)
- Ayushman Sabhas in every village and panchayat
- These components are expected to accelerate the delivery of healthcare services at grassroots levels, contributing to the creation of a healthier nation.
Back2Basics: Ayushman Bharat Scheme
Launch Year |
2018 |
Objective |
Universal Health Coverage and Financial Protection |
Components |
1. Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY)
2. Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs) |
Target Beneficiaries |
Economically disadvantaged families, rural populations, vulnerable communities |
Coverage |
Health insurance for eligible families, covering various medical expenses |
Services Offered |
Comprehensive healthcare services, including preventive, promotive, and curative care |
Impact |
Improved health indicators, reduced financial burden on beneficiaries, enhanced healthcare infrastructure |
Vision |
To make healthcare a fundamental right for all Indian citizens |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Atmanirbhar Bharat Rozgar Yojana
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Aatmanirbhar Bharat Rozgar Yojana (ABRY) by the Central Government has outperformed its initial employment targets, proving its effectiveness in fostering job creation during the COVID-19 crisis.
About Aatmanirbhar Bharat Rozgar Yojana (ABRY)
Launch |
Introduced in November 2020 |
Purpose |
As part of Atmanirbhar Bharat Package 3.0 to boost post-Covid-19 employment |
Government’s Contribution |
Subsidy for provident fund contributions in EPFO-registered organizations |
Coverage |
Up to 1000 employees: Both employee (12%) and employer (12%) contributions for two years
Over 1000 employees: Employee (12%) contribution for two years |
Subsidy Disbursement |
Subsidy credited upfront to Aadhaar-linked EPFO accounts (UAN) of new employees |
Eligibility Criteria |
Establishments adding new employees compared to September 2020 reference base |
Target Beneficiaries |
Employees with monthly wages under Rs. 15,000 joining EPFO-registered establishments
Individuals reemployed on or after October 1, 2020, who left jobs between March 1 and September 30, 2020 |
Achievements and Numbers
- The scheme, open for registrations until March 31, 2022, targeted around 7.18 million employees across India.
- By July 31, 2023, ABRY had already exceeded its target, enrolling over 7.58 million new employees.
- Benefiting 1,52,380 establishments with 60,44,155 new employees, the scheme disbursed benefits totaling Rs. 9,669.87 Crore.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Parivar Pehchan Patra
Mains level: Not Much

Central Idea
- The Parivar Pehchan Patra (PPP), introduced in 2020 and rolled out in September 2021 in Haryana, has evoked both attention and criticism.
Parivar Pehchan Patra
- The PPP assigns a unique 8-digit identity number to each family unit residing in Haryana.
- Enrolment in the PPP is obligatory for accessing government services and social security schemes.
- Families can register through Common Service Centers, SARAL Kendras, or registered PPP operators, with verified data collected based on self-declarations and strict procedures.
Key Functions and Linkages
- The PPP streamlines access to various public welfare programs, including subsidized rations, Old Age Samman Allowance, Divyang Pension, educational admissions, government exams, and more.
- It gathers extensive data, encompassing family members’ details, Aadhaar numbers, demographics, educational and occupational information, immovable property ownership, and social status.
Comparing PPP with Aadhaar
- The scheme’s proponents note that PPP leverages Aadhaar’s digital framework but offers a more intricate delivery.
- While Aadhaar focuses on unique identity information, PPP encompasses socio-economic data, validated through specific procedures.
Opposition’s Concerns and Criticisms
- A former CM highlighted data collection errors leading to people being denied subsidies and benefits.
- A legislator raised multiple objections, alleging misuse of data for voter profiling, and criticized the depth of personal information required.
- Concerns were raised about the need for Aadhaar details, caste, PAN card, bank account, and property information. It was asserted that social security doesn’t necessitate caste identification.
- The criticism extended to the potential exploitation of caste-based and socio-economic data for electoral advantages.
Conclusion
- The Parivar Pehchan Patra scheme in Haryana aims to streamline government services and welfare delivery.
- While the initiative offers benefits, concerns about data accuracy, privacy, and potential political manipulation necessitate careful scrutiny and public discourse.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Various schemes mentioned
Mains level: Read the attached story

Central Idea
- Education stands as a potent tool for nurturing socio-economic progress within a nation, especially for religious minorities.
- However, recent years have witnessed discontinuation of key scholarship schemes, reduced funding, and a decline in beneficiaries, prompting concerns about the commitment to inclusive growth.
Minority Educational Schemes: Overview
- Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme: Initially covering classes 1 to 10, now limited to classes 9 and 10.
- Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme: Supports class 11 and above students, with increased funding this fiscal year.
- Merit-cum-Means based Scholarship Scheme: Aided professional and technical courses, underwent significant funding reduction.
- Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF): Provided financial assistance for research scholars but discontinued in 2022.
- Padho Pardesh: Discontinued interest subsidy scheme for higher education abroad.
- Begum Hazrat Mahal National Scholarship: Scholarship for meritorious girls discontinued.
Policy Shift and Consequences
- Change in Focus: Despite acknowledging the importance of education for religious minorities and inclusive growth, the government has discontinued two key educational schemes, narrowed the scope of another, and reduced expenditure on multiple programs by the Ministry of Minority Affairs.
- Beneficiary Drop: Between 2019 and 2022, the number of beneficiaries under six educational schemes for religious minorities decreased by 7%, while government spending on these programs declined by around 12.5%.
- Budget Cuts: The Ministry of Minority Affairs faced a budgetary reduction of 38.3% for the fiscal year 2023-24, from Rs 5,020.5 crore in 2022-23 to Rs 3,097 crore. Additionally, a significant portion of funds allocated in the previous year went unutilized.
Importance of Strengthening Educational Aid
- Diverse Religious Minorities: India encompasses over 30 crore people from religious minority communities, including Muslims (14.2%), Christians (2.3%), Sikhs (1.7%), Buddhists (0.7%), Jains (0.4%), and Zoroastrians.
- Challenges Faced by Muslims: Muslims, the largest religious minority, confront challenges in areas like economics, health, and education. Their participation in formal employment remains low, with many working in the informal sector under poor conditions.
- Sachar Committee Report: The Sachar Committee highlighted the deprivation and neglect faced by Muslims across various development dimensions, underscoring the need for affirmative action.
- Formation of Ministry of Minority Affairs: Responding to these challenges, the UPA government established this Ministry in 2006 to ensure focused attention on the issues affecting minority communities.
Challenges and Impact
- Reduction in beneficiaries and funding has impacted the implementation of schemes, resulting in a widening gap in education and economic parameters.
- Poor coverage of beneficiaries and unchanged low unit costs remain hurdles in scheme implementation.
- Muslim students’ enrolment in higher education is lagging behind other communities, worsening the existing disparities.
Way Forward
- Strengthen educational aid through enhancing scholarships, such as pre-matric, post-matric, merit-cum-means, and national overseas scholarships.
- Implement targeted schemes based on the 15-Point Programme to address development gaps in minority-concentrated localities.
- Make scholarships demand-driven and provide additional financial resources to improve unit costs.
- Increase the total budget allocation for the Ministry of Minority Affairs to address the deprivation in educational attainment for minorities.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM Vishwakarma Scheme
Mains level: Read the attached story

Central Idea
- The Union Cabinet has given its nod to the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at uplifting artisans and craftsmen in India.
What is PM Vishwakarma Scheme?
- Supporting Artisans: It will be a Central Sector Scheme with twofold objective: to nurture the Guru-Shishya Parampara:
- Age-old tradition of imparting skills within families, and
- To uplift artisans and craftsmen engaged in manual trades.
- Coverage: This comprehensive scheme encompasses 18 traditional trades in its initial phase, including blacksmiths, carpenters, potters, goldsmiths, tailors, and more, who form the bedrock of rural economies.
Key Highlights of Scheme
- Financial Provision: The scheme is fortified by a budgetary outlay of ₹13,000 crore, ensuring robust financial support to artisans and craftsmen.
- Recognition and ID: Artisans and craftspeople will receive recognition through the prestigious PM Vishwakarma certificate and an official ID card, validating their skills and contributions.
- Credit Support: The scheme provides access to credit support, offering up to ₹1 lakh in the first tranche and ₹2 lakh in the second tranche, with an advantageous interest rate of 5%.
- Skill Upgradation: To enhance expertise, the scheme includes skill upgradation programs encompassing both basic and advanced training. Participants will receive a stipend of ₹500 per day during training.
- Modern Tools and Incentives: Beneficiaries will be granted up to ₹15,000 to acquire modern tools, further improving the quality and efficiency of their work.
- Digital Transactions and Marketing: Embracing modern practices, the scheme encourages digital transactions and marketing support, linking artisans with broader markets.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: E-Bus Seva Scheme
Mains level: Read the attached story

Central Idea
- The Union Cabinet’s recent approval of the PM e-bus Seva scheme marks a significant step towards enhancing urban mobility and promoting green transportation across India.
PM E-Bus Seva: Scheme Overview
- E-Bus Definition: The scheme’s core revolves around e-buses, which are buses powered solely by zero-emissions electricity sources for both propulsion and accessory systems.
- Scope and Cost: The PM e-bus Sewa scheme is estimated to cost ₹57,613 crore, with the Central government contributing ₹20,000 crore.
- Operational Support: The scheme is designed to provide operational support to bus services for a period of 10 years.
Implementation Strategy
- Two Segments: The scheme will be executed in two distinct segments:
- 10,000 E-Buses: In 169 cities, 10,000 e-buses will be introduced through a public-private partnership (PPP) model.
- Infrastructure Upgrades: In 181 other cities, green urban mobility initiatives will focus on improving infrastructure, bus priority, charging infrastructure, multimodal interchange facilities, and automated fare collection systems.
- Depot Infrastructure: For the first segment, the development and enhancement of depot infrastructure, including power substations, will be undertaken to support the new e-buses.
- Job Creation: The scheme is expected to generate around 45,000 to 55,000 direct jobs, contributing to employment growth.
Coverage and Funding
- Coverage: Cities with populations of three lakh and above, Union Territory capitals, as well as northeastern and hill states, are included in the scheme’s ambit.
- Funding Model: States or cities will manage bus services and payments to bus operators, with the Central government providing subsidies as outlined in the scheme. This approach promotes decentralized management.
Positive Impacts
- Environmental Benefits: The adoption of electric buses will significantly reduce noise and air pollution, contributing to cleaner and healthier urban environments.
- Carbon Emission Reduction: Electric mobility aligns with India’s commitment to curb carbon emissions and combat climate change.
- Economies of Scale: Aggregating electric bus procurement is expected to achieve economies of scale, making electric buses more financially viable and encouraging their adoption.
Conclusion
- The PM e-bus Sewa scheme signifies India’s ambitious stride towards sustainable and eco-friendly urban mobility.
- It also highlights the government’s commitment to job creation, as well as its determination to transform the transportation sector into a cleaner, greener, and more efficient mode of commuting.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Annapurna Food Packet Scheme
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Rajasthan’s government launched the Annapurna food packet scheme as part of its welfare initiatives, aiming to support 1.10 crore people, especially those hit hard by the pandemic.
Annapurna Food Packet Scheme
- The scheme primarily benefits families identified through the National Food Security Act (NFSA) survey, encompassing poor and destitute families.
- It also extends beyond NFSA beneficiaries to encompass families that received ₹5,500 pandemic assistance, totalling around 1.05 crore beneficiaries.
Benefits and Contents
- Monthly Distribution: Eligible beneficiaries can collect Annapurna food packets monthly from fair price shops (FPS) at no cost.
- Content Details: Each packet contains essential items – 1 kg gram pulses, sugar, and iodized salt, 1 litre soybean refined edible oil, 100 grams each of chilli powder and coriander powder, and 50 grams of turmeric powder.
- Commission to FPS: FPS will receive a ₹10 commission per packet distributed, incentivizing their participation.
Back2Basics: National Food Security Act (NFSA)
- The NFS Act was enacted on 12th September 2013, with retrospective effect from 5th July 2013.
- It integrates legal entitlements for prevailing food security initiatives of the GoI, encompassing the Midday Meal Scheme, Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), and the Public Distribution System (PDS).
- The NFSA enshrines a legal right for individuals belonging to “eligible households” to acquire food grains at subsidized rates.
Features
- Recognizing Maternity: The NFS Act acknowledges the importance of maternal health by incorporating maternity entitlements within its provisions.
- Coverage Spectrum: While the Midday Meal Scheme and ICDS are accessible to all, the PDS caters to about two-thirds of the population (75% in rural areas and 50% in urban areas).
- Special Benefits: Pregnant women, lactating mothers, and specific categories of children enjoy the privilege of daily free cereals, enhancing their nutritional security.
- Subsidized Rates: The act establishes central issue prices (CIPs) for food grains, offering rice at Rs 3/kg, wheat at Rs 2/kg, and coarse grains at Rs 1/kg through the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS).
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM-USHA Scheme
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- States like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal have not signed the required MoU for implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) under the PM-USHA scheme.
- Concerns revolve around budget allocation and the absence of specific funds for NEP reforms.
PM-USHA Scheme
- The Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) was introduced as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme to financially support institutions in States/UTs.
- Its aim was to enhance access, equity, and excellence in higher education with improved efficiency, transparency, accountability, and responsiveness.
- The initial phase of the scheme commenced in 2013, followed by the second phase in 2018.
- In alignment with the National Education Policy, the RUSA initiative has been revamped as the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA).
Challenges and Concerns
- Lack of Additional Funds: The MoU requires states to undertake NEP-related administrative, academic, accreditation, and governance reforms. States are concerned that there are no extra funds designated specifically for NEP reforms within the scheme.
- 40% State Contribution: States have to bear 40% of the expenses under the PM-USHA scheme, leading to further apprehensions about their ability to fund NEP initiatives.
- Incomplete Alignment: The MoU doesn’t explicitly address the financial needs for implementing NEP changes, leading to dissatisfaction among some state governments.
Government Response and Flexibility
- Consultations and Integration: The University Grants Commission (UGC) chairman emphasizes the integration between NEP and PM-USHA through the MoU, which necessitates alignment with NEP principles.
- Streamlined Approach: The PM-USHA scheme consolidates various components and offers states more flexibility in focusing on felt needs.
- Focus on Prioritized Districts: States can identify priority districts based on enrollment ratios, gender parity, and demographic proportions, ensuring tailored educational interventions.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: BharatNet Project
Mains level: Not Much

Central Idea
- The Cabinet has given its approval for an outlay of ₹1.39 lakh crore for the BharatNet project, aimed at providing last-mile connectivity to around 6.4 lakh villages across India.
About BharatNet Project
- Objectives: The project aims to connect 6.4 lakh villages, covering all gram panchayats in the country, with last-mile broadband connectivity through optical fiber.
- Implementation: Bharat Broadband Network (BBNL), a special purpose vehicle under Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), is responsible for executing the project.
- Tie-up with VLEs: BBNL will collaborate with village level entrepreneurs (VLEs) to provide connectivity, following a successful pilot project in four districts and later expanded to 60,000 villages.
- Progress So Far: As of now, around 1.94 lakh villages have been connected, and the rest are expected to be covered in the next 2.5 years.
Services details
BharatNet is the world’s largest rural connectivity scheme with an Optical Fibre network.
- Gram Panchayat: The scheme aimed to provide 100 Mbps broadband to 2.5 lakh gram panchayats.
- Households: The main goal is affordable 2 Mbps to 20 Mbps broadband for all households, especially in rural areas.
Key Achievements of the Project
- Broadband Connections: The pilot project involved 3,800 entrepreneurs providing 3.51 lakh broadband connections to villages.
- Data Consumption: Households in connected villages recorded an average data consumption of 175 gigabytes per month.
- Pricing and Speed: The project is based on a 50% revenue share between BBNL and VLEs, offering monthly broadband plans priced from ₹399 to ₹799 with a minimum speed of 30mbps.
- Optical Fiber Laid: Currently, there are 37 lakh route kilometers (rkm) of optical fiber cable (OFC) laid in India, with BBNL contributing 7.7 lakh rkm OFC to the network.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Annapurti
Mains level: Not Much

Central Idea
- The recent demonstration of the Automated Multi-Commodity Grain Dispensing Machine, Annapurti, during the ‘National Conference of Food Ministers of States/UTs,’ showcased an innovative solution developed by the World Food Programme (WFP) India.
What is Annapurti?
- Annapurti, also known as the Grain ATM, offers a fast, clean, and precise method of providing subsidized grains to beneficiaries through the Public Distribution System.
- Developed by WFP India, it is an automated multi-commodity dispensing solution that ensures efficient access to commodities like rice, wheat, and grains.
- Beneficiaries can securely access their entitlements through Annapurti following biometric authentication.
Key Features
- Annapurti offers 24×7 access to full entitlements, eliminating spillage, waste, and inaccurate weighing.
- The machine can dispense one or two grain commodities, up to 50 kilograms, within five minutes, with a minimal error rate of 0.01 percent.
Advantages and Potential Applications
(1) Ensuring Food Security:
- Annapurti has significant potential for food-based safety nets, ensuring beneficiaries receive their monthly subsidized grains promptly.
- The machine’s precision and reliability prevent losses and ensure individuals receive their entitled portions.
(2) Emergency Food Grain Distribution:
- During emergencies, such as natural disasters or humanitarian crises, Annapurti can facilitate efficient and timely distribution of food grains to affected populations.
- Its automated system streamlines the process, reducing dependency on manual labor and minimizing errors.
(3) Market Access for Smallholder Farmers:
- Annapurti can play a crucial role in expanding market access for smallholder farmers.
- By offering a reliable and efficient distribution channel, farmers can sell their produce directly to Annapurti, ensuring fair prices and reducing intermediaries.
Sustainable and Modular Design
(1) Energy Efficiency:
- Annapurti is designed to prioritize food security while ensuring efficient energy consumption.
- With a consumption rate of only 0.6 Watt per hour, it offers an environmentally friendly solution.
(2) Modular Design:
- Annapurti’s modular design allows for flexibility and scalability based on available space.
- The storage unit and components can be easily assembled and customized to suit different requirements.
(3) Integration with Renewable Energy:
- Annapurti can be integrated with solar panels, inverter batteries, and elevators for automatic refilling.
- This integration enhances the sustainability of the system by reducing dependency on conventional energy sources.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Mission Vatsalya
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Centre has introduced a special scheme to provide medical, financial, and infrastructural support to minor rape victims who become pregnant as a result of sexual assault.
Supporting Minor Rape Victims
- The scheme, operating under the Nirbhaya Fund, aims to address the needs of minor victims and has been allocated ₹74.1 crore in funding.
- The Ministry of Women and Child Development has collaborated with State governments and Child Care Institutions (CCIs) to implement this initiative.
- It leverages the existing administrative structure of Mission Vatsalya, which focuses on child protection and welfare.
Objectives of the Scheme
- Integrated Support: The scheme aims to provide comprehensive assistance and support to girl child victims in a single framework.
- Range of Services: Immediate and non-emergency services include access to education, police assistance, healthcare (including maternity, neo-natal, and infant care), psychological support, and legal aid.
- Insurance Coverage: The scheme offers insurance coverage for the minor victim and her newborn,
Eligibility and Coverage
- Criteria: Victims eligible for support under the scheme are girls below 18 years of age who become pregnant due to rape under the provisions of the POCSO Act and are either orphans or abandoned by their families.
- No Mandatory FIR Requirement: Victims do not need to possess a copy of the First Information Report (FIR) to avail benefits under the scheme.
Other initiatives
- Establishment of POCSO Fast-Track Courts: The government has set up 415 fast-track courts across the country to expedite the legal proceedings for minor victims of rape.
- Additional Support: The new scheme complements the judicial measures by providing comprehensive support to minor victims.
Need for Support
- High Incidence of Cases: The National Crime Records Bureau reported 51,863 cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act in 2021.
- Predominantly Girls as Victims: Analysis reveals that 99% of the cases involved girls, many of whom experience physical and mental health concerns when they become pregnant as a result of the assault.
- Vulnerable Situations: Some victims are disowned or abandoned by their families, while others are orphans, exacerbating their challenges.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM-PRANAM Scheme
Mains level: Not Much

Central Idea
- The union cabinet has given its approval to PM-PRANAM scheme, which aims to promote the usage of alternative fertilizers and balanced utilization of chemical fertilizers.
- This scheme, announced in the budget for 2023-24, reflects the government’s commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and the conservation of natural resources.
What is PM-PRANAM Scheme?
- PM-PRANAM stands for Prime Minister Promotion of Alternate Nutrients for Agriculture Management Yojana.
- The scheme was proposed during the National Conference on Agriculture for Rabi Campaign in September 2022.
- Its objective is to reduce the subsidy burden on chemical fertilizers by promoting the use of alternative fertilizers.
Notable features of the scheme
- Incentivizing States and UTs: The scheme incentivizes states and Union Territories to promote the usage of alternative fertilizers and achieve a balanced use of chemical fertilizers. States that demonstrate significant savings in funds due to reduced chemical fertilizer usage receive grants as incentives.
- Subsidy Savings Allocation: Around 50% of the subsidy savings resulting from reduced chemical fertilizer consumption will be allocated as a grant to the state that exhibits the highest savings. This encourages states to actively participate in the adoption of alternative fertilizers.
- Creation of Assets: A significant portion (70%) of the granted funds will be utilized for creating assets associated with the technological integration of alternate fertilizers. This includes establishing production units at the village, block, and district levels, facilitating local production and availability of alternative fertilizers.
- Recognition and Incentives for Farmers: The remaining 30% of the granted funds will be utilized to incentivize and recognize farmers and other village entities for their contributions to reducing fertilizer usage. This recognizes their efforts in adopting sustainable agricultural practices.
- Environmentally Friendly Farming Practices: The scheme aims to promote environmentally friendly farming practices by encouraging the adoption of alternative fertilizers. This reduces the dependency on chemical fertilizers, which in turn contributes to environmental conservation and sustainability.
- Long-term Soil Health and Agricultural Ecosystems: By promoting a balanced use of fertilizers, the scheme ensures the long-term health and fertility of agricultural ecosystems. It emphasizes sustainable agricultural practices that preserve soil health and protect natural resources.
- Technological Integration: The scheme supports the integration of technology into agriculture for the production and utilization of alternative fertilizers. This includes the establishment of production units at the grassroots level, encouraging local production and accessibility of alternative fertilizers.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Green Credit Scheme
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Ministry of Environment has released a draft notification outlining a proposed ‘Green Credit Scheme’ to provide incentives for various environmental activities.
- The scheme aims to encourage actions such as afforestation, water conservation, waste management, and addressing air pollution by allowing individuals and organizations to generate tradable ‘green credits.’
What is Green Credit Programme (GCP)?
- GCP will be launched at the national level, utilizing a competitive market-based approach to encourage voluntary environmental actions.
- The scheme will incentivize individual and community behaviors, as well as motivate private sector industries, companies, and other entities to fulfill their existing obligations.
- By participating in activities that generate or allow the purchase of green credits, stakeholders can align with the objectives of the scheme.
Creating Supply and Demand for Green Credits
- The government’s immediate focus is to create a supply of green credits through voluntary actions.
- The subsequent step involves introducing laws or regulations to incentivize companies and organizations to purchase credits, thereby creating demand.
- Unlike carbon markets that primarily trade greenhouse gas emissions, the Green Credit Scheme accounts for a broader range of actions, making it more complex.
Sectors for Green Credit Generation
The notification outlines following sectors or activities that qualify for generating green credits:
- Tree plantation-based green credit: Promotes activities to increase green cover through tree plantation and related initiatives.
- Water-based green credit: Encourages water conservation, water harvesting, efficient water use, and wastewater treatment and reuse.
- Sustainable agriculture-based green credit: Promotes natural and regenerative agricultural practices, land restoration, and improvement of productivity, soil health, and nutritional value.
- Waste management-based green credit: Fosters sustainable waste management practices and improvements in waste handling.
Uniqueness and Complexity of the Scheme
- The proposed Green Credit Scheme covers a wider range of actions compared to similar initiatives worldwide.
- Unlike existing schemes, this program accounts for diverse activities, making its implementation and accounting mechanisms more intricate.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Time-of-Day Tariff
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Ministry of Power has recently introduced Time-of-Day (ToD) tariff for electricity, which will be implemented next year for commercial users and in 2025 for home users.
- This article aims to explain what ToD tariff is, how it impacts consumers, and why it is important for the power sector.
What is Time-of-Day Tariff?
- Amendments: The government has made amendments to the Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules 2020, introducing ToD tariff and rationalizing smart meters.
- Tariff structure: Under ToD tariff, electricity charges will vary based on the time of day. The current flat rate system will be replaced. During daytime, the tariff may decrease by up to 20%, benefiting consumers. Conversely, during night-time, the tariff will increase by the same amount.
- Benefits for consumers: ToD tariff allows consumers to regulate and manage their electricity consumption and control their bills. It gives them the flexibility to take advantage of lower tariffs during off-peak hours.
Impact on electricity bills
- Impact on different households: For small working couples who primarily use electricity at night, their bills are likely to increase. However, other households can offset the nighttime spike by shifting some of their electricity usage to daytime hours.
- Power consumption patterns: Power consumption typically peaks in the morning when schools and offices open, in the late afternoon when children return home, and in the early evening when air conditioners and heaters are in high demand. ToD tariff aims to discourage excessive power consumption during these peak hours.
Power guzzling appliances
- Identifying power-consuming appliances: Appliances such as air conditioners, coolers, refrigerators, heaters, and geysers are the major contributors to electricity consumption in households. Other significant power-consuming appliances include washing machines, dishwashers, and microwaves.
- Energy-efficient alternatives: It is worth noting that energy-efficient versions of most electrical appliances are available in the market, which can help reduce overall electricity consumption.
Readiness of infrastructure
- Requirement of smart meters: To implement ToD tariff, smart meters are necessary. These meters automate the meter-reading process and provide accurate cost estimation, minimizing wastage. They send consumption information to power distribution companies every 15 minutes, which is crucial for calculating ToD charges.
- Status of smart meter installation: Currently, over 6.5 million smart meters have been installed in the country, with a target of reaching 250 million by 2026. Approximately 230 million smart meters have been sanctioned so far.
Benefits for the power sector
- Improved billing efficiency: ToD tariff and smart metering can enhance billing efficiency and reduce transmission and distribution losses.
- Differential tariff for renewable power: As the share of renewable power increases, it needs to be blended with coal-based power, requiring differential tariff structures. ToD tariff can facilitate this blending effectively.
- Electric vehicles (EVs) and ToD tariff: With the expected surge in EV adoption, ToD tariff can encourage consumers to charge their vehicles during off-peak hours, reducing the strain on the power grid.
- Flexibility for discoms: ToD tariff provides flexibility for loss-making distribution companies (discoms) to revise tariffs, addressing their financial challenges.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Annna Bhagya Scheme
Mains level: Not Much

Central Idea
- The government in Karnataka is facing challenges in procuring rice for its ambitious Anna Bhagya scheme.
- However, there is a ray of hope as Punjab has agreed in-principle to supply the required quantity of rice.
What is Anna Bhagya Scheme?
- The state government plans to enhance the free rice allocation per person in the Below Poverty Line (BPL) card from 5 kg to 10 kg.
- The scheme is estimated to cost the exchequer ₹840 crore monthly and ₹10,092 crore annually.
- It is scheduled to be launched on July 1.
Challenges Faced
- The Food Corporation of India (FCI) initially agreed to provide the required 2.28 lakh tonnes of rice but later refused to do so.
- Telangana and Andhra Pradesh expressed inability to supply, while Chhattisgarh government offered to supply 1.5 lakh tonnes.
- Karnataka is now searching for rice in other states and aims to purchase it at ₹34 per kg.
Consideration of Alternative Grains:
- If needed, the state may provide 2 kg of either ragi or jowar, which would last for six months.
- However, the government still needs to supply an additional 3 kg of rice on top of the existing 5 kg allocation.
Punjab’s Offer
- The Punjab government expressed willingness to supply rice to Karnataka in the federal spirit.
- Punjab has enough rice and wants to help mitigate the problems faced by the poor across the country.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS)
Mains level: Read the attached story

Central Idea
- The Centre has discontinued the sale of rice and wheat from the central pool to State governments under the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS).
- This move is aimed at controlling price inflation and stabilizing food prices, but it may have an impact on states like Karnataka that offer free grains to the poor.
What is Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS)?
- The OMSS refers to the government’s selling of food grains, such as rice and wheat, in the open market at predetermined prices.
- The scheme aims to enhance grain supply during the lean season and moderate open market prices.
- It consists of three components:
- Sale of wheat to bulk consumers/private traders through e-auction.
- Sale of wheat to bulk consumers/private traders through e-auction by dedicated movement.
- Sale of Raw Rice Grade ‘A’ to bulk consumers/private traders through e-auction.
Working of OMSS
- To ensure transparency, the Food Corporation of India (FCI) has adopted e-auction as the method for selling food grains under the OMSS (Domestic).
- Weekly auctions are conducted on the NCDEX platform.
- State governments and Union Territory Administrations can participate in the e-auction if they require wheat and rice outside TPDS & OWS (Targeted Public Distribution System & Other Welfare Schemes).
Reasons for Discontinuation of OMSS:
- Controlling price inflation: Discontinuing OMSS helps regulate the supply of rice and wheat to prevent price hikes.
- Ensuring price stability: By limiting the availability of grains through OMSS, the government aims to maintain stable market prices.
- Balancing stock levels: Discontinuation allows for better management of grain stock in the central pool.
- Streamlining distribution channels: OMSS discontinuation enables a more focused and efficient distribution of grains through targeted welfare schemes.
- Efficient utilization of resources: By discontinuing OMSS, resources can be allocated more effectively to optimize procurement and distribution efforts.
- Flexibility in response to market conditions: The discontinuation provides flexibility to adjust grain supply based on market demands and conditions.
- Promoting market competition: The absence of OMSS encourages the participation of private traders and bulk consumers, fostering a competitive market environment.
Concerns and Production Challenges
- Adverse weather conditions: Unseasonal rains, hailstorms, and higher temperatures have posed challenges to wheat production.
- Lower production and higher prices: The adverse weather conditions may lead to reduced wheat production and subsequent price increases.
- Rice price fluctuations: Rice prices have already increased by 10% at the mandi level in the last year.
- Dependence on monsoon rains: Monsoon rains are crucial for rice production, as 80% of the country’s total rice production occurs during the kharif season.
- Potential impact on food security: Lower production and price fluctuations can affect food security, particularly for vulnerable sections of society.
- Procurement challenges: Slow wheat procurement and increased prices create difficulties in achieving procurement targets and maintaining stock levels.
- Potential impact on overall agricultural output: Production challenges in wheat may have a ripple effect on the overall agricultural sector and farm incomes.
- Need for stabilizing measures: Measures to stabilize supply, improve agricultural practices, and manage weather-related risks are crucial to address these concerns.
Efforts to Stabilize Supply and Stock Levels
- Food Corporation of India: FCI plays a vital role in ensuring the availability of food grains at reasonable prices to vulnerable sections of society through the Public Distribution System.
- Increased Procurement: The government has set a procurement target of 341.5 lakh metric tonnes of wheat for the ongoing Rabi Marketing Season (RMS) 2023-24.
Conclusion
- The Centre’s decision to discontinue the sale of rice and wheat to states under the OMSS aims to control price inflation and stabilize food prices.
- Exceptions have been made for regions facing specific challenges.
- The imposition of stock limits and offloading through the OMSS demonstrates the government’s efforts to manage overall food security and prevent hoarding.
- However, concerns remain regarding lower wheat production due to adverse weather conditions, highlighting the need for measures to stabilize supply and stock levels.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Jal Jeevan Mission
Mains level: Read the attached story

Central Idea
- Potable water: The Jal Jeevan Mission aims to provide piped potable water to all of India.
- Potential Life-Saving Impact: If successful, the mission could avert nearly 400000 deaths from diarrhoea.
- Reduction in Disease Burden: The mission could avoid 14 million DALYs (Disability Adjusted Life Years) related to diarrhoea.
Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALY)
- DALY is a metric used to measure the burden of disease on a population.
- It combines years of life lost due to premature mortality (YLLs) and years lived with a disability (YLDs) into a single measure.
- DALYs provide a comprehensive assessment of the impact of diseases, injuries, and disabilities by quantifying both the years of healthy life lost and the years lived with a disability.
- This metric helps policymakers and researchers prioritize health interventions and allocate resources effectively to address the overall disease burden in a population.
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About Jal Jeevan Mission
- Launch: Government initiative launched in 2019
- Goal: Provide access to clean and piped drinking water to every rural household
- Focus: Water supply infrastructure development, community participation, water quality monitoring
- Objective: Improve health, well-being, and productivity of rural communities, Addressing challenges of water scarcity, contamination, and inadequate infrastructure
- Target: Achieve 100% coverage by 2024 for reliable and sustainable water supply
- Definition of functional Connection: A fully functional tap water connection means receiving at least 55 litres of potable water per capita per day throughout the year
The key objectives of the Jal Jeevan Mission include:
- Universal coverage: Mission aims to achieve tap water connections for all rural households, ensuring access to potable water within premises.
- Sustainability: Focus on long-term sustainability through community participation, water resource management, and water conservation practices.
- Quality assurance: Prioritizing safe and clean drinking water by implementing water quality monitoring systems and adhering to prescribed standards set by BIS.
- Convergence and coordination: Emphasis on collaboration among stakeholders to effectively achieve mission objectives.
Socioeconomic Benefits of the Mission
- Economic Savings: The study suggests that the mission could save close to $101 billion.
- Time Savings: It could save 66.6 million hours per day that would have been spent collecting water, primarily by women.
- Improved Quality of Life: Access to piped water connections would enhance convenience and overall well-being.
- Sanitation benefits: Every dollar invested in sanitation interventions yields a $4.3 return in reduced healthcare costs.
Progress status of the scheme
- Current Coverage Levels: Around 62% of rural households have piped water connections.
- States and UTs at Full Coverage: Five states and three Union Territories have reported 100% coverage.
- Progress of states: Himachal Pradesh is at 98.87% coverage, while Bihar is at 96.30% and nearing saturation.
Limitations and Considerations of the Study
- Extrapolation of Data: The study extrapolates data and does not compute current levels of coverage.
- Contamination Concerns: The study does not account for the degree of contamination in the piped water provided.
- Data Sources: The authors used population data from the United Nations, the 2018 National Sample Survey, and water quality data collected by the Jal Jeevan Mission.
Challenges Addressed by the Mission
- Water scarcity: Mission aims to tackle the challenge of inadequate water availability in rural areas.
- Contamination: Focus on improving water quality and addressing issues of waterborne diseases.
- Infrastructure gaps: Efforts to bridge the gap in water supply infrastructure in rural regions.
Way forward
- Enhancing Capacity of Local Bodies: Provide support and resources to strengthen the capacity of local governance institutions in effectively managing and governing rural water supply systems.
- Promoting Community Participation: Foster active community participation in decision-making processes related to water infrastructure planning, implementation, and maintenance.
- Empowering Local Water User Committees: Strengthen the role of local water user committees in monitoring and regulating water supply services, promoting their active involvement in decision-making.
- Participatory Planning: Facilitate participatory planning processes, where water user associations actively contribute to the development of water management plans, considering local needs and priorities.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kudumbashree Scheme
Mains level: Women empowerment initiatives

Central Idea: President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the silver jubilee celebrations of Kudumbashree.
What is Kudumbashree?
- Kudumbashree is a poverty eradication and women empowerment program implemented by the State Poverty Eradication Mission (SPEM) in Kerala, India.
- The program was established in 1997 based on recommendations from a task force appointed by the state government.
- It was created in the context of devolving powers to the Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs) and the People’s Plan Campaign in Kerala.
- Membership in Kudumbashree is open to all adult women, with one membership allowed per family.
- In 2011, the Centre recognized Kudumbashree as the State Rural Livelihoods Mission (SRLM) under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM).
Working mechanism
- Kudumbashree operates through a three-tier structure:
- Neighbourhood Groups (NHGs),
- Area Development Societies (ADS), and
- Community Development Societies (CDS).
- The community network was gradually expanded to cover the entire state between 2000 and 2002.
Evolution and Contributions of Kudumbashree
- Kudumbashree has transformed significantly over the past 25 years.
- During the Kerala flood, Kudumbashree donated a substantial amount to the Chief Minister’s relief fund, surpassing contributions from tech giants and foundations.
- The organization was initially conceptualized as an all-women poverty alleviation program.
- Despite being flood victims themselves, Kudumbashree members showed resilience and contributed generously to help others.
Role during the COVID-19 Pandemic
- Kudumbashree played a crucial role in responding to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- They manufactured and distributed masks and sanitisers.
- The organization set up COVID treatment centres and worked as the nodal agency for COVID management in several local bodies.
- ‘Janakeeya Hotels’ provided affordable meals to those in need, including those in home quarantine.
Empowerment and Social Impact
- Kudumbashree has empowered women and facilitated grassroots planning for employment generation, poverty alleviation, and women’s empowerment.
- It mobilized women for community activities and increased their participation in local bodies.
- Kudumbashree’s initiatives include micro-enterprises, agricultural projects, rural development, and compassion programs.
- The organization has made significant strides in empowering Dalit and tribal women.
Challenges and Future Directions
- Critics highlight the need for Kudumbashree to evolve gender perspectives and alternative development models.
- Despite criticism, Kudumbashree’s contribution to poverty reduction is unparalleled.
- The organization aims to address gender-based crimes and eliminate social evils.
- Mental and cultural empowerment are deemed crucial for overcoming the ‘gender paradox’ in Kerala.
Conclusion
- Kudumbashree success in reducing poverty is widely recognized.
- Continued efforts are needed to combat gender-based crimes and challenges.
- Kudumbashree aims to be a force for positive societal change and women’s empowerment.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: PM MITRA
Mains level: Not Much

The Centre has selected seven states in India to set up new textile parks under the PM MITRA (Mega Investment Textiles Parks) Scheme.
What is PM MITRA Scheme?
- The scheme was announced in October 2021, and the parks will be established by 2026-27.
- MITRA aims to enable the textile industry to become globally competitive, attract large investments, and boost employment generation and exports.
- It will create world-class infrastructure with plug and play facilities to enable create global champions in exports.
- It will be launched in addition to the Production Linked Incentive Scheme (PLI).
- It will give our domestic manufacturers a level-playing field in the international textiles market & pave the way for India to become a global champion of textiles exports across all segments”.
Its implementation
- An special purpose vehicle (SPV) owned by Centre and State Government will be set up for each park, which will oversee the implementation of the project.
- The Ministry of Textiles will provide financial support in the form of Development Capital Support up to ₹500 crore per park to the Park SPV.
- A Competitive Incentive Support (CIS) up to ₹300 crore per park to the units in PM MITRA Park shall also be provided to incentivize speedy implementation.
- Convergence with other Government of India schemes shall also be facilitated in order to ensure additional incentives to the Master Developer and investor units.
Envisaged Benefits
- The parks will boost the textiles sector in line with 5F (Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion to Foreign) vision.
- The Centre envisages an investment of nearly ₹70,000 crore into these parks, with employment generation for about 20 lakh people.
- The parks will function as centres of opportunity to create an integrated textiles value chain, right from spinning, weaving, processing, dyeing and printing to garment manufacturing, all at a single location.
Need for such scheme
- Textile industry is critical to India’s economy, employing 4.5 crore people and contributing 7% of GDP. Despite its potential, the industry is facing challenges that need to be addressed.
- The unorganized textile industry in the country increased wastage and logistical costs, impacting the competitiveness of the country’s textile sector.
Challenges Faced by India’s Textile Industry
- High input costs due to high taxes and tariffs, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of skilled labor.
- Competition from cheaper imports (ex. from Bangladesh) and a growing informal sector.
- Environmental concerns related to the industry’s high water usage, pollution, and hazardous waste disposal.
- The pandemic further disrupted supply chains and led to reduced demand.
Conclusion
- PM MITRA Parks represent a unique model where the Centre and State Governments will work together to increase investment, promote innovation, create job opportunities and ultimately make India a global hub for textile manufacturing and exports.
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