General Awareness

GOVERNMENT POLICIES AND SCHEMES - March 2024

Mar 2024

Apr 06, 2026

Jiyo Parsi 300 registrations update; Universal Registration Drive continues in 2026

Mumbai reports show the Jiyo Parsi portal logged about 300 new registrations during a Universal Registration Drive as part of ongoing efforts to bolster minority welfare and demographic revival. The Jiyo Parsi scheme, launched in 2013–14, provides medical and health benefits and advocacy to support Parsis. The nationwide drive, extending through March–April 2026, aims to expand the database and improve outreach to Parsis across states, ensuring targeted support for fertility, elderly care, and community empowerment.

Registrations: ~300 in Mumbai
Drive: Universal Registration
Scheme: Jiyo Parsi (launched 2013–14)
Benefits: medical care, health, advocacy
Goal: demographic revival

ECI invites citizen feedback to refine ECINet ahead of January 2026 launch

In March 2026, the Election Commission of India invited public input to refine ECINet ahead of its official January 2026 launch. Citizens were asked to submit suggestions by January 10, 2026, to improve usability and accessibility. ECINet integrates 40 election-related tools, including Voter Helpline, cVIGIL, Polling Trends, and Know Your Candidate. Officials stressed that feedback would inform upgrades before rollout, ensuring accurate candidate data and easier access for voters across states during the 2026 polls. The initiative aligns with broader digital governance goals and aims to reduce information gaps and misinformation.

ECI invites citizen feedback on ECINet by Jan 10, 2026.
ECINet consolidates about 40 election services.
Includes Know Your Candidate, Voter Helpline, cVIGIL, and more.
Feedback will guide pre-launch upgrades for 2026 polls.
Aims to reduce information gaps and improve accessibility.

ECINET launched as single platform for election services

ECINET was launched as a unified digital platform for election information and services, consolidating nearly 40 earlier apps and websites, including the Know Your Candidate (KYC) module. The platform brings together voter registration, electoral roll search, track your application, e-EPIC downloads, polling trends, and grievance redressal in a secure interface. The rollout followed trial deployments in Bihar elections and bye-elections, with full implementation planned for January 2026. Experts expect ECINET to streamline candidate verification, voter education, and service delivery across states during the 2026 polls.

ECINET consolidates about 40 election services.
Includes Know Your Candidate, Voter Helpline, cVIGIL, and more.
Launched by Election Commission of India.
Trials in Bihar elections; full rollout planned for Jan 2026.
Aims to improve transparency and voter convenience.

Sādhana Saptah 2026 strengthens civil services capacity under Mission Karmayogi

Sādhana Saptah 2026, running from 2 to 8 April 2026, is a theme-focused initiative under Mission Karmayogi to strengthen governance capability across ministries, departments, and states. The week combines iGOT digital learning, Samuhik Charcha sessions, and inter-ministerial workshops with sector-specific training conducted by civil services training institutions. The program aims to engage 93 Central Ministries and Departments, 30 States and UTs, and more than 200 training institutions, coordinated by the Capacity Building Commission and Karmayogi Bharat. The Sutras for the week are Technology, Tradition, and Tangible Outcomes, with the National Conclave at the Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi marking the launch. The goal is to advance citizen-centric, efficient public service in line with Viksit Bharat 2047.

Dates: 2–8 April 2026
Themes: Technology, Tradition, Tangible Outcomes
Scope: 93 Ministries, 30 States/UTs
Platform: iGOT, Samuhik Charcha, workshops
Goal: Citizen-centric governance

ECI launches ECINet KYC feature to help voters check candidates

Ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections and by-elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) introduced the ECINet Know Your Candidate (KYC) feature to help voters verify candidates’ backgrounds. The poll schedule covers Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Puducherry, with 1,955 candidates contesting across constituencies. Voting is slated for 9 April in Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry, while Tamil Nadu and West Bengal will follow in subsequent phases. ECINet provides access to candidate education, criminal records, assets and liabilities, and other verified data to voters, aiming to enhance informed decision-making at the polls.

ECINet KYC feature launched by ECI.
1,955 candidates contesting across Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal.
Polls scheduled for 9 April in some states; others later.
KYC provides verified data on candidates’ background.
Intended to support informed voting decisions.

Apr 04, 2026

Telangana to pilot Bhu Bharati land portal from 2 April 2026

Telangana will launch the Integrated Bhu Bharati land portal on a pilot basis in five mandals starting 2 April 2026, aimed at linking land records, surveys and registration into a single system. The pilot covers Kusumanchi (Khammam), Aswaraopeta (Bhadradri Kothagudem), Amangal (Ranga Reddy), Vatpally (Sangareddy) and Kosgi (Narayanpet). The project uses Rover-based surveys and promises faster land mapping, with notices to adjacent landowners within two days and surveys completed within seven days. After verification, parcels receive Bhudhaar IDs and Land Parcel Map numbers, with maps uploaded to the portal. The government plans to refine and scale the system across the state based on feedback.

Pilot to start on 2 April 2026
Five mandals chosen for the rollout
Rover-based surveys; end-to-end land records system
Two-day notices; seven-day surveys
Plans for statewide expansion

RoSCTL scheme extended to 30 September 2026 to support exporters

The government has extended the Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL) scheme until 30 September 2026 to support garment and made-up exporters amid ongoing global uncertainty. The extension ensures continued financial support to offset hidden taxes and levies, maintaining export competitiveness and employment in the labor-intensive textile sector. By providing continuity, the policy seeks to stabilise India’s textile export ecosystem and reinforce the country’s position in global markets during challenging times.

RoSCTL extended to 30 September 2026
Supports garment and made-ups exporters
Offsets hidden taxes and levies
Aims to maintain export competitiveness
Provides continuity amid global uncertainty
Protects employment in textiles

Telangana launches Bhu Bharati portal pilot to streamline land services

The Telangana government launched the Integrated Bhu Bharati portal on a pilot basis in five mandals to integrate land, survey, and registration services into a single platform. The system aims to improve transparency, efficiency, and ease of access for farmers. Pilot mandals are Kusumanchi (Khammam), Aswaraopeta (Bhadradri Kothagudem), Amangal (Ranga Reddy), Vatpally (Sangareddy), and Kosgi (Narayanpet). Notably, adjacent landowner notices must be issued within two days and surveys completed within seven days using Rover-based technology. After mandal revenue verification, parcels receive unique Land Parcel Map numbers and Bhudhaar IDs, with survey maps uploaded to the portal. Expansion will depend on pilot feedback.

Pilot in five mandals across Telangana
Platform integrates Land, Survey, and Registration departments
Two-day notice for adjacent landowners; seven-day surveys
Rover-based surveying; Bhudhaar IDs issued
Goal: replace Dharani with Bhu Bharati; expand statewide

E20 petrol becomes standard across India from 1 April 2026

From 1 April 2026, fuel stations across India started supplying E20 petrol, a blend of petrol with 20 percent ethanol. The rollout follows directives from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and aims to advance the government’s ethanol-blending program and cleaner mobility. Oil marketing companies have been instructed to ensure uniform fuel quality, in line with Bureau of Indian Standards norms. The move is expected to reduce vehicle emissions, lower oil imports, and strengthen energy security over the longer term. While rollout is nationwide, implementation speed varies by region as supply chains adjust to the new blend and testing protocols continue.

E20 standard across India from 1 April 2026
20% ethanol blend in petrol
Uniform fuel quality to BIS norms
Aims to reduce emissions and oil imports
Strengthens energy security
Nationwide rollout with regional rollout pace

Apr 03, 2026

Kar Saathi AI assistant launched to simplify tax filing

The Income Tax Department launched the Kar Saathi website on 2 April 2026 to simplify tax filing and provide 24x7 AI-assisted guidance. The platform centralizes direct tax information and offers an AI companion to help taxpayers navigate queries and processes. The move is part of a broader digitalisation push to modernise tax administration and improve user experience. The AI tool is designed to assist users in understanding forms, filing requirements, and common deductions, with a goal of reducing compliance barriers and improving service delivery.

Kar Saathi website launched on 2 April 2026.
AI-powered assistant to aid tax queries and filing.
Centralizes direct tax information for taxpayers.
Part of government digitisation of tax administration.

Indigenous Coal-to-Ammonium Nitrate project at Lakhanpur, Odisha moves forward

India's first indigenous Coal-to-Ammonium Nitrate project moved closer to reality with a Lakhanpur, Jharsuguda plant set to produce 2,000 tonnes per day of ammonium nitrate. The facility, spread over about 350 acres, will use technology developed by Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited and is a key part of India's push for self-reliance in fertiliser and chemistry. The Ministry of Coal has reformed policy to allow coal-bearing areas land for gasification projects, with financial backing of ₹1,350 crore under its incentive scheme. Major lump-sum turnkey contracts have been awarded: BHEL leads LSTK-1 and LSTK-2, while Larsen & Toubro handles LSTK-3 and LSTK-4. Site work is underway.

Project will produce 2,000 tonnes per day of ammonium nitrate.
Lakhanpur, Jharsuguda, Odisha spans about 350 acres.
BHEL developed the technology; LSTK packages awarded to BHEL and L&T.
MoC reforms enable use of Coal Bearing Area land for gasification.
Incentive support of ₹1,350 crore under MoC scheme.

Parliament designates Amaravati as Andhra Pradesh’s permanent capital

Parliament passed the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026, formally designating Amaravati as the state’s sole and permanent capital. The bill, approved by the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha in early April 2026, halts any bid to alter the capital arrangement and reinforces Amaravati’s legal status. Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan and other officials welcomed the decision as a milestone for state governance and regional identity. Ministers emphasized that the move aligns with constitutional provisions and the post-bifurcation framework established in 2014, consolidating administrative functions in a single capital city.

Amaravati designated as permanent capital of Andhra Pradesh.
Legislation enacted through Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Amendment Bill, 2026.
Parliamentary approval in early April 2026 across Houses.
Official statements frame the decision as constitutional and historic.

Madhya Pradesh launches School Chalen Hum campaign for universal enrollment

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav launched the four-day School Chalen Hum campaign in Bhopal to kick off the new academic session. The effort runs from 1 to 4 April and targets universal school enrollment across all 55 districts and more than 50,000 villages. The campaign aligns with Pravesh Utsav and includes rapid distribution of over 5.6 crore textbooks, literacy workbooks, and bridge courses. Officials say the drive aims to ensure every child attends school and receives foundational education on time. The initiative emphasizes inclusive access to quality schooling and rural literacy improvements.

Campaign duration: 1–4 April in Madhya Pradesh.
Goal: universal enrollment across 55 districts and 50,000+ villages.
Textbooks and literacy materials distributed under Pravesh Utsav.
Focus on foundational literacy and bridge courses.
Led by Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav in Bhopal.
Part of broader education access and quality improvement efforts.

Apr 02, 2026

MSRTC Launches NCMC Smart Card for Digital Bus Travel

Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) launched the RuPay On‑The‑Go National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) on 1 April 2026, inaugurating a digital bus travel scheme. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis led the event, highlighting convenience, transparency, and efficiency. The NCMC cards linked to Aadhaar will be issued to students, senior citizens, women, persons with disabilities, and other concession holders. The scheme simplify fare concessions and ticketing, with symbolic card distributions to beneficiaries. Cards enable seamless travel across MSRTC services and reflect India’s broader push toward digital public transport and inclusive access to mobility benefits.

MSRTC launched RuPay On‑The‑Go NCMC on 1 April 2026.
Inaugurated by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Aadhaar‑linked NCMC cards issued for concession groups.
Aims to simplify fare concessions and ticketing.
Represents a move toward digital public transport in Maharashtra.

Vir Vikram Yadav Appointed DGCA Head Amid Aviation Safety Push

Vir Vikram Yadav has been appointed the new Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), replacing Faiz Ahmed Kidwai. The appointment comes at a time when India’s aviation sector faces safety concerns, operational disruptions, and regulatory challenges. The government intends the transition to bring fresh leadership to the regulator while ensuring continuity; Yadav will also move to the Department of Personnel and Training as Additional Secretary. The shift signals a focused effort to restore confidence in one of the world’s largest aviation markets by strengthening safety oversight and regulatory governance.

Vir Vikram Yadav appointed DGCA, replacing Faiz Ahmed Kidwai.
Appointment amid aviation safety challenges and regulatory pressures.
Government intends continuity with new leadership in aviation regulator.
Yadav shifts to DoPT as Additional Secretary after appointment.
Aims to restore confidence in India’s aviation sector.

Modi Inaugurates Kaynes Semiconductor Plant in Gujarat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a Kaynes Technology semiconductor plant at Sanand, Gujarat, signaling India’s push to build a domestic chip ecosystem. The facility begins production and is part of a broader sequence following Micron’s Sanand facility launch on 28 February. Kaynes will manufacture Intelligent Power Modules used in electric vehicles and industrial applications, with a substantial portion of output expected for export. Officials emphasised integration with global supply chains, linking domestic production to international markets. The plant strengthens India’s semiconductor capacity and complements ongoing government efforts to expand local manufacturing and reduce import dependence.

Kaynes semiconductor plant inaugurated in Sanand, Gujarat (date: 1 April 2026 context).
Production aligns with India’s domestic chip ecosystem goals.
Facility will produce Intelligent Power Modules for EVs and industry.
Significant export share anticipated; integrated with global supply chains.
Builds on earlier Micron facility milestone (28 February 2026).

Apr 01, 2026

Pride of Hills scheme allocates ₹3,880 crore to Nagaland for 2026–27

The Centre has allocated ₹3,880 crore to Nagaland under the Pride of Hills: Special Development Assistance for the Hill States for the 2026–27 financial year. The scheme is part of SASCI (Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment) and aims to strengthen infrastructure, connectivity, and public services in hill states facing challenging terrain and dispersed populations. The funds are intended to boost capital expenditure, create sustainable development opportunities, and narrow regional disparities, while supporting balanced growth and improved governance in Nagaland’s hilly regions.

Allocation: ₹3,880 crore to Nagaland (2026–27).
Scheme: Pride of Hills under SASCI framework.
Objectives: Infrastructure, connectivity, and public services.
Context: Focus on hill states with higher development costs.

Solid Waste Management Rules 2026 mandate four-stream segregation from 1 April 2026

India implemented the Solid Waste Management Rules 2026, notified 27 January 2026, and made them effective from 1 April 2026. The updated framework replaces the 2016 rules and requires four-stream segregation at the source: Wet waste, Dry waste, Sanitary waste, and Special care waste. Under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the rules aim to improve waste segregation, enable digital monitoring, and promote a circular economy. They place greater responsibility on waste generators, industries, and local authorities to ensure safe disposal and minimize environmental impact, with an emphasis on accountability and sustainable practices.

Effective date: 1 April 2026.
New streams: Wet, Dry, Sanitary, Special care waste.
Administered by: MoEFCC (MoE) with focus on accountability.
Goals: Better segregation, monitoring, and sustainable waste management.

Andhra Pradesh Assembly backs Amaravati as permanent capital (March 28, 2026 resolution)

Following a unanimous Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly resolution on 28 March 2026, leaders urged the Union government to grant legal recognition to Amaravati as the state’s permanent capital. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu underscored Amaravati as the definitive choice, aligning constitutional provisions with public sentiment. The move aims to provide statutory clarity and accelerate the greenfield capital project, addressing long-standing debates over capital location. Supporters say the decision will streamline administration and spur regional development, while critics call for comprehensive plans to ensure sustainable growth.

Date: 28 March 2026 resolution by AP Legislative Assembly.
Outcome: Push for Amaravati as permanent capital verified by Assembly.
Political figure: CM N. Chandrababu Naidu emphasized constitutional alignment.
Next step: Seek Union government legal backing for Amaravati capital.

Amaravati poised to be Andhra Pradesh’s sole capital under 2026 amendment bill

The Centre is set to introduce the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026 in Lok Sabha to designate Amaravati as the sole capital of Andhra Pradesh. The proposed amendment would modify Section 5 of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, which originally named Hyderabad as joint capital for ten years after bifurcation. A March 28, 2026 resolution by the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly urged legal recognition of Amaravati as the permanent capital, aligning constitutional provisions with public preference. If enacted, the bill would clarify governance and development plans for the new capital region.

Amendment Bill: Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026.
Proposed outcome: Amaravati named sole capital; Hyderabad loses status as joint capital.
Background: Legislative Assembly resolution dated 28 March 2026.
Impact: Clears ambiguity on capital governance and development.

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