Cabinet Accords Approval for Progressive Expansion of Central Sector Scheme of 'Agriculture Infra...
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, approved the progressive expansion in Central Sector Scheme of financing facility under 'Agriculture Infrastructure Fund' to make it more attractive, impactful and inclusive.
In a significant move to enhance and strengthen the agricultural infrastructure in the country and support the farming community, the Government has announced a series of measures to expand the scope of Agricultural Infrastructure Fund (AIF) scheme. These initiatives aim at expanding the scope of eligible projects and integrate additional supportive measures to foster a robust agricultural infrastructure ecosystem.
Since its launch by the Prime Minister in 2020, AIF has been instrumental in supporting creation of 6623 warehouses, 688 cold stores and 21 silos projects, resulting in additional storage capacity of about 500 LMT in the country.
The expansion in the scope of AIF scheme is poised to further drive the growth, improve productivity, enhance farm incomes and contribute to the overall sustainability of agriculture in the country. These measures also underscore the Government's commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector through holistic development of farm infrastructure in the country.
Aug 29, 2024
Uttar Pradesh Digital Media Policy
The Uttar Pradesh government introduced the Digital Media Policy, 2024, which incentivises social media influencers to promote state initiatives, schemes, and achievements through various online platforms. This policy aims to enhance the visibility of government projects and create employment opportunities within the state.
The new policy, approved by the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet, provides for a structured payment scheme for influencers based on their social media presence. Influencers can receive up to Rs. 8 lakh per month depending on their platform and category:
X, Facebook, Instagram: Payments of Rs. 5 lakh, Rs. 4 lakh, Rs. 3 lakh, and Rs. 2 lakh.
YouTube Videos, Shorts, and Podcasts: Payments of up to Rs. 8 lakh, Rs.7 lakh, Rs. 6 lakh, and Rs. 4 lakh.
Agencies and firms will be enlisted to manage and distribute advertisements, ensuring that content promoting government schemes and achievements is effectively created and shared. This initiative is expected to foster employment and engage the digital community in promoting state projects.
Himachal Pradesh Passes Bill to Raise Women's Age of Marriage to 21 Years
The Himachal Pradesh legislative assembly passed a Bill to raise the minimum age for marriage for women from 18 to 21 years.
The Bill, Prohibition of Child Marriage (Himachal Pradesh Amendment) Act, 2024, seeks to amend the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006.
The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006 was enacted to provide for the prohibition of solemnisation of child marriages.
As per the same, the minimum age of marriage for women is 18 while it is 21 for men.
The Himachal bill has sought to raise the minimum age of marriage for women to 21 with a view to ensure gender equality and taking into account the fact that early marriage acts as a hindrance to women's progress in professional career and physical development.
Aug 28, 2024
Himachal Pradesh Government Approves 'Mukhya Mantri Sukh Shiksha Yojana'
The Himachal Pradesh government allocated Rs. 53.21 crore annually to fund the 'Mukhya Mantri Sukh Shiksha Yojana,' aimed at supporting the education and well-being of children from vulnerable families. This initiative will provide financial aid to widows, destitute women, divorced women, and disabled parents.
Under the scheme, children under 18 years of age from eligible families will receive a monthly grant of Rs. 1,000 to cover educational, health, and nutritional expenses. For those pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, or vocational courses, the government will offer financial assistance for tuition and hostel costs.
The scheme is designed to assist women and disabled parents facing significant challenges in supporting their children. It addresses issues related to child protection by preventing child abuse, trafficking, teenage marriages, and drug abuse. It also acknowledges the link between disability, unemployment, and poverty.
Maharashtra Adopts Unified Pension Scheme Ahead of Assembly Polls
In a significant move ahead of the October 2024 Legislative Assembly election, Maharashtra became the first state to adopt the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for its employees, just hours after the central government introduced the scheme. This decision is poised to benefit approximately 13.5 lakh state employees across various sectors, including recognized and grant-aided educational institutions, non-agricultural universities, and zilla parishads.
Assured Pension: 50% of the average basic pay drawn over the last 12 months before superannuation for a minimum of 25 years of service. For lesser service periods, the pension will be proportionate with a minimum of 10 years of service.
Aug 27, 2024
Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for Central Government Employees Approved
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) for central government employees. This scheme will be effective from April 1, 2025, and will benefit 23 lakh central government employees.
The Central Government has launched the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS), which provides government workers with a steady pension based on their length of service and most recent basic salary drawn.
As per reports, central government employees can select between the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) and the National Pension Scheme (NPS). Additionally, current NPS subscribers of the central government will have the choice to transfer to the UPS. State governments will also be able to choose to implement the Unified Pension Scheme shortly.
Aug 26, 2024
Cabinet Approves BioE3 Policy for Fostering High Performance Bio-manufacturing
The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the 'BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) Policy for Fostering High Performance Bio-manufacturing' of the Department of Biotechnology.
Overall, this Policy will further strengthen Government's initiatives such as 'Net Zero' carbon economy & 'Lifestyle for Environment' and will steer India on the path of accelerated 'Green Growth' by promoting 'Circular Bioeconomy'. The BioE3 Policy will foster and advance future that is more sustainable, innovative, and responsive to global challenges and lays down the Bio-vision for Viksit Bharat.