Government Schemes [India & States] Current Affairs MCQs

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The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana on February 29, 2024, with a total outlay of Rs 75,021 crore. The scheme aims to install rooftop solar panels in one crore households and provide free electricity of up to 300 units per month. The scheme also includes: A one-time budgetary support of Rs 150 crore for five years until 2027-28, a central financial assistance of 60% of the system cost for 2 kW systems and 40% of the additional system cost for systems between 2 to 3 kW capacity and a subsidy of Rs 30,000 to Rs 60,000 for an average monthly electricity consumption of 0-150 units, Rs 60,000 to Rs 78,000 for 150-300 units, and Rs 78,000 for more than 300 unit.

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Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has revealed the Indiramma Housing Scheme, set to commence on March 11. The initiative targets economic empowerment by offering housing solutions to underprivileged segments. In the initial phase, 3,500 houses per Assembly constituency will be approved, benefiting numerous recipients. Landowners will receive Rs. 5 lakh to build on their plots, while the homeless will get the same amount along with a plot for house construction, amplifying support for the economically disadvantaged.

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The NAMASTE Scheme, led by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, aims to eliminate manual engagement in hazardous sewer and septic tank cleaning. Implemented by NSKFDC for three years (FY 2023-24 to FY 2025-26) with a budget of 349.73 crores, the scheme provides entitlements for Sewer and Septic Tank Workers (SSWs), including digital profiling, PPE kits, safety training, health insurance, and opportunities for entrepreneurship in the sanitation sector. Over 4800 Urban Local Bodies will benefit, profiling over a lakh SSWs.

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The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers introduced the Revamped Pharmaceuticals Technology Upgradation Assistance Scheme (RPTUAS). The initiative provides quality-based subsidies to pharmaceutical companies for achieving Revised Schedule M and WHO-GMP certifications. The scheme aims to elevate the pharmaceutical industry’s standards, promoting adherence to Revised Schedule-M and WHO-GMP guidelines, thereby enhancing the quality and safety of pharmaceutical products manufactured in the country.

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The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) launched the ‘One Vehicle One FASTag’ initiative to boost the adoption of FASTags for toll collection on national highways. It aims to link each vehicle with a single FASTag, curbing misuse of multiple tags per vehicle. This move enhances toll collection efficiency and streamlines the process, contributing to smoother traffic flow.

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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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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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The Ministry of Renewable Energy warns farmers against fake websites and apps soliciting registration fees for solar water pump installation under PM-KUSUM Scheme. Launched in 2019, PM-KUSUM aims to de-dieselise farming, boost farmer income, and ensure energy security. It targets adding 34,800 MW of solar capacity by March 2026 with Rs 34,422 crore funding. Farmers receive subsidies up to 30-50% for solar pumps and grid-connected plants. Implemented by state governments under MNRE.

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The Haryana government announced changes to the “Mukhyamantri Kisan Evam Khetihar Mazdoor Jeevan Suraksha Yojana,” removing age restrictions for recipients. The scheme provides financial aid to farmers and laborers in case of death or incapacity while operating agricultural machinery. Compensation ranges from Rs 37,500 to Rs 5 lakh. Previously limited to ages 10 to 65, the recent modification opens eligibility to children under 10 and adults over 65, expanding the initiative’s reach.

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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.