Government Schemes [India & States] Current Affairs MCQs

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The Union government plans to introduce a new test developed by the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (NIEPID) to diagnose specific learning disabilities (SLDs) in Indian adults. NIEPID, established in 1984, operates under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, focusing on services for individuals with intellectual disabilities. With headquarters in Secunderabad, Telangana, it offers training, research, and rehabilitation services nationwide.

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There are many gaps in the Scheme for Care and Support to Victims. The Scheme for Care and Support to Victims by the Ministry of Women and Child Development aids minor pregnant girl child victims under the POCSO Act. Funded by the Nirbhaya Fund, it offers integrated support from case reporting until age 18, with possible aftercare until 23. Features include health insurance, legal aid, and financial assistance of ₹6,000 initially and ₹4,000 monthly under Mission Vatsalya.

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Public Wi-Fi hotspots under the Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) scheme are nearing 200,000 in India. Launched in December 2020 by the Department of Telecommunications, PM-WANI aims to provide affordable, high-speed internet in rural and remote areas. The scheme establishes a public Wi-Fi network using Wi-Fi Access Points set up by Public Data Offices (PDOs), which operate on an open-architecture system, enabling multiple service providers to offer internet services.

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Responding to water scarcity, the Rajasthan government launches Mukhyamantri Jal Swavlamban Abhiyan 2.0, aiming to construct 500,000 water harvesting structures in 20,000 villages over four years. Rajasthan, among India’s driest regions, faces annual rainfall variations from 100 mm to 800 mm, causing water shortages for basic needs. Groundwater replenishment relies on rainfall, yet excessive usage depletes reserves. RIICO mandates rainwater harvesting for plot lessees, and RPH&CCL integrates it into building projects.

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The Assam government launched the Mukhya Mantri Nijut Moina (MMNM) scheme in June, 2024, to promote girl education and end child marriage. Approved by the state cabinet, the scheme offers financial support to around 10 lakh girl students. Girls in higher secondary education will receive Rs 1000 monthly, those in degree courses Rs 1200, and those in Post Graduation or B.Ed programs Rs 2500.

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

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Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin launched the “Mannuyir Kaathu Mannuyir Kaappom” plan to promote sustainable farming in state with a ₹206 crore budget. A key focus is improving soil health using green manure methods. A ₹20 crore start-up fund will support the distribution of green manure seeds across 200,000 acres from 2024–25, benefiting over 200,000 farmers directly.

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

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Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath pushed for the swift implementation of ‘Family IDs’, aiming to streamline government benefits and job opportunities. Under the “One Family, One Identity” scheme, each family receives a unique ID to enhance scheme management and ensure transparent operations. Around 15.07 crore people benefit from this initiative, leveraging Family IDs for access to the National Food Security Act. Over 1 lakh families without ration cards have already received their IDs.

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Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma launched the Mukhya Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi, an income support scheme, at Krishi Upaj Mandi in Tonk. The first installment of Rs 650 crore was released to 65 lakh farmers. Eligible farmers will receive Rs 2000 annually in three installments, alongside the Rs 6000 from the central PM-KISAN scheme. The Cooperative Department is the nodal agency for implementation.