General Awareness

GOVERNMENT POLICIES AND SCHEMES - January 2025

Jan 2025

Mar 20, 2026

Cabinet Approves ₹2,584 Crore Small Hydro Scheme (FY 2026–27 to 2030–31)

The Union Cabinet approved the Small Hydro Power Development Scheme with an outlay of ₹2,584.60 crore to add about 1,500 MW of capacity. The program targets decentralised renewable energy in hilly and remote regions, supporting projects from 1 MW to 25 MW. Of the total outlay, ₹2,532 crore will fund project implementation, while ₹30 crore will prepare detailed project reports for a future pipeline. The initiative aims to unlock untapped hydro potential in the Himalayan and North Eastern regions, promoting cleaner energy and local employment opportunities while reducing grid constraints.

Small Hydro Power Development Scheme approved for 2026–31
Outlay: ₹2,584.60 crore; ~1,500 MW capacity
Projects ranged from 1–25 MW; focuses on remote/hilly areas
₹2,532 crore for implementation; ₹30 crore for DPRs
Aims to expand renewable energy and rural electricity access

Mar 19, 2026

BHAVYA approved to develop 100 plug-and-play industrial parks

The Union Cabinet approved BHAVYA, the Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojna, with an outlay of ₹33,660 crore to develop 100 plug-and-play industrial parks across India. Parks will range from 100 to 1,000 acres, with financial support up to ₹1 crore per acre for core infrastructure such as roads, utilities, drainage, and ICT. The scheme also covers value-added facilities, factory sheds, testing labs, and worker housing. BHAVYA aims to boost manufacturing, attract investment, and create large-scale employment, aligning with the Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat visions. Implementation will involve states and private partners to establish ready-to-use industrial ecosystems nationwide.

BHAVYA approved; ₹33,660 crore outlay
100 plug-and-play industrial parks across India
Parks: 100–1,000 acres; up to ₹1 crore/acre
Infrastructure: roads, utilities, ICT; social facilities
Public-private partnership; aims to boost manufacturing

BHAVYA Scheme: key features explained

BHAVYA is designed to develop one hundred plug-and-play industrial parks across India with an outlay of about ₹33,600 crore. Parks will range from 100 to 1,000 acres and will receive up to ₹1 crore per acre for core infrastructure such as roads, utilities, drainage, and ICT. The plan includes ready-to-use factory sheds, testing labs, warehousing, and social infrastructure like worker housing. The scheme aims to reduce setup time and investment barriers, promoting manufacturing growth and attracting private investment through public-private collaboration across states. It builds on NICDP and previous industrial park initiatives to accelerate industrial development.

100 plug-and-play industrial parks targeted
Outlay around ₹33,600 crore
Park sizes: 100–1,000 acres
Up to ₹1 crore/acre for core infra
Public-private collaboration; NICDP alignment

Chhattisgarh launches Gaudham Yojana for stray cattle

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnudeo Sai launched Gaudham Yojana, a scheme to improve care for stray cattle. The inauguration took place at a Gaudham facility in Lakhassar village, Takhatpur block, Bilaspur district. The Gaudham covers about 25 acres, with 19 acres dedicated to green fodder cultivation. The Kamdhenu Gaushala Samiti will manage the facility, providing fodder, drinking water, veterinary care, and grazing land arrangements. The project underscores the state’s focus on cattle welfare and livestock management, linking animal care to rural livelihoods and cultural responsibilities associated with Gau Mata.

Gaudham Yojana launched in Chhattisgarh
Facility at Lakhassar; 25 acres total; 19 acres fodder
Managed by Kamdhenu Gaushala Samiti
Focus on stray cattle welfare and grazing land
Supports rural livelihoods and cattle conservation

Mar 18, 2026

Himachal signs MoU with NDDB to boost dairy sector

Himachal Pradesh signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Dairy Development Board on 16 March 2026 to strengthen the state's dairy sector. The agreement aims to enhance milk processing capacity, upgrade infrastructure, and generate employment for farmers. NDDB will support the introduction of modern technology in milk processing and dairy products, and help promote products under the HIM brand. The collaboration targets supply chain modernization, refrigerated transport, and improved dairy-based value chains. Officials expect improved rural livelihoods and greater regional value addition. The MoU aligns with state and national goals to modernize agriculture and advance the dairy industry significantly.

Date of MoU: 16 March 2026.
Parties: Himachal Pradesh and NDDB.
Objectives: processing capacity, infrastructure, employment.
NDDB role: technology transfer and HIM brand promotion.

Himachal Signs NDDB MoU To Boost Dairy Sector

Himachal Pradesh signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Dairy Development Board on 16 March 2026 to strengthen the state’s dairy sector. The agreement aims to enhance milk processing capacity, upgrade dairy infrastructure, and create employment opportunities for farmers. It supports the ‘HIM’ brand and regional dairy products. The NDDB will introduce advanced technology in milk processing and dairy-based products, improving supply chains across Himachal Pradesh. The collaboration is expected to modernize facilities, expand market reach, and raise productivity while promoting sustainable dairy practices aligned with national agricultural development goals.

Date of MoU: 16 March 2026.
Parties: Himachal Pradesh government and NDDB.
Goals: modernize processing, upgrade infrastructure, create jobs.
Brand focus: promote products under the ‘HIM’ brand.
Technology: NDDB to introduce advanced dairy processing tech.

Mar 17, 2026

Lower Kopili Hydroelectric Project Inaugurated in Assam

Prime Minister virtually inaugurated the 120 MW Lower Kopili Hydroelectric Project in Assam, marking a milestone in the region’s renewable energy push. The run-of-river project sits in the Kopili River basin across West Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao, aligning with national goals to expand clean power. The project enhances electricity access in central Assam and strengthens energy security for the Northeast. Officials expect improved reliability for nearby communities and potential spillover benefits for industrial development and rural electrification in the state.

Capacity: 120 MW run-of-river hydro project.
Location: Kopili River basin (West Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao), Assam.
Inauguration: Virtual ceremony by Prime Minister.
Purpose: Expand clean energy and regional electricity access.
Impact: supports Northeast power security and development.

India Post to Launch 24 Speed Post for Next-Day Delivery

The Department of Posts will roll out a premium express service, 24 Speed Post, offering next-day guaranteed delivery across six major cities starting 17 March 2026. The first phase covers Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, with 48 Speed Post options and a guaranteed D+1 delivery timeline. Features include OTP-based secure delivery, end-to-end SMS tracking, and a Buy Now, Pay Later option for business customers. The rollout aligns with broader postal modernization efforts and digital service expansion to improve reliability, speed, and customer experience in rapid delivery services.

Launch date: 17 March 2026.
Cities in first phase: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad.
Service: 24 Speed Post with D+1 delivery in major cities.
Features: OTP secure delivery, SMS tracking, BNPL for businesses.
Context: part of postal modernization and enhanced express services.

SATHEE App Launched for Competitive Exam Preparation

The SATHEE App, a free digital learning platform developed jointly by the Ministry of Education and IIT Kanpur, aims to support students preparing for major competitive exams. The platform offers video lectures, mock tests, study materials, and access to previous years’ question papers, with a focus on students who cannot afford expensive coaching. The project emphasizes accessible, quality education and leverages IIT Kanpur’s academic resources to broaden national exam preparation. The app is designed to complement school education and reduce barriers to high-stakes entrance examinations for under-resourced learners.

Developed by: Ministry of Education and IIT Kanpur.
Format: Free digital platform with lectures, mocks, materials, and past papers.
Purpose: Aid affordable preparation for competitive exams.
Focus: Accessibility for students lacking coaching resources.
Outcome: Enhances nationwide access to quality study resources.

Mar 16, 2026

PM Modi Dedicates Assam Elevated Road Corridor, Announces Inland Waterways Projects

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently dedicated a modern elevated road corridor connecting Pandu Port to National Highway 27 and laid the groundwork for multiple inland waterway projects in Assam. The drive seeks to boost tourism, trade and employment, while strengthening the Brahmaputra corridor as a major transport and economic route. Four major projects worth Rs 526 crore were launched under the Inland Waterways Authority of India. The package includes the elevated road corridor, a cruise terminal at Biswanath Ghat, the Regional Centre of Excellence at Bogibeel, Dibrugarh, and a second cruise terminal at Neamati. Officials said the projects will improve connectivity and unlock regional development opportunities.

PM Modi dedicated a Pandu Port–NH-27 elevated road corridor.
Inland waterway projects in Assam were announced to boost connectivity.
Four major projects worth Rs 526 crore were launched.
Projects include Biswanath Ghat cruise terminal, Bogibeel RCoE, Neamati cruise terminal.

MoHUA Hosts AMRUT Mitra Mahotsav to Celebrate Women SHGs in AMRUT 2.0

MoHUA hosted AMRUT Mitra Mahotsav 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, to honour women SHGs known as AMRUT Mitras for their work in urban water management under AMRUT 2.0. The national event brought together over 1,000 women and 300 officials from 30 states and union territories. AMRUT Mitras from Arunachal Pradesh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh and Karnataka shared stories of how their involvement improves urban water services, livelihoods and communities. The gathering highlighted the role of women in city water systems and encouraged further participation of SHGs in public services. Officials noted improved service delivery, more jobs, and sustainability through SHG-led maintenance, meter reading, and hygiene initiatives. The event showcased programs and partnerships with governments.

AMRUT Mitra SHGs are highlighted under AMRUT 2.0 for urban water management.
Over 1,000 women and 300 officials attended from 30 states/UTs.
AMRUT Mitras from multiple states shared stories of impact.
Women’s involvement improves urban water services, livelihoods and communities.
Officials noted improved service delivery and jobs through SHG-led initiatives.

Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat Launched to End Child Marriage

The Government of India announced the National Initiative Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat to end child marriage and empower young girls to lead safe, healthy lives. The programme complements existing laws such as the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006 and the Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, by promoting awareness, protection and enforcement with community involvement. Officials said the initiative will involve communities, schools and local administrations to prevent early marriages, provide support services, and improve education outcomes. The move reflects ongoing efforts to uphold child rights, reduce gender-based discrimination, and meet international commitments on child protection. Implementation will be monitored with periodic reviews and community feedback.

Initiative Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat aims to end child marriage.
Aligns with PCMA 2006 and related child-protection laws.
Focus on awareness, protection, enforcement with community involvement.
Aims to improve education outcomes and empower girls.

Sujal Gaon ID Launched for Digital Mapping of Rural Water Supply

Union Minister Shri C. R. Patil chaired a meeting with state and UT ministers from PHED, Rural Water Supply and Panchayati Raj to discuss Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0. The meeting announced Sujal Gaon ID, a digital mapping tool for rural water supply schemes, designed to track every household connection and monitor service delivery. The system will feed data into a central platform to improve planning, maintenance, and accountability. JJM 2.0 extends the mission to December 2028 with a higher budget, focusing on digital reforms and sustainable infrastructure. The decision reinforces India's commitment to safe drinking water as a basic utility for all rural households.

Sujal Gaon ID will digitally map rural water supply schemes.
Tool tracks every household connection and improves planning and accountability.
JJM 2.0 extends to December 2028 with higher funding.
Meeting chaired by Union Minister C. R. Patil discussed the roadmap.

RBI Launches Awareness Program on Digital Payments

To promote safe digital payments, the Reserve Bank of India has launched a pilot awareness program named Awareness Program on Digital Payments. The program aims to educate users nationwide about secure online transactions, common fraud risks, and protective measures. It seeks to build trust in digital platforms by providing practical guidance on password hygiene, device security, and recognizing phishing attempts. The RBI notes that digital payments are increasingly common for shopping and bill payments, and that safer usage reduces financial loss and increases inclusion. The program will run in collaboration with banks and regional offices. Officials say training materials will be translated into multiple Indian languages.

RBI launched the Awareness Program on Digital Payments as a pilot.
Program educates users on secure transactions and fraud risks.
It promotes safer digital use with practical guidance and bank collaboration.
Training materials will be translated into multiple Indian languages.

Union Jal Shakti Minister launches Sujal Gaon ID for digital mapping under Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0

Union Minister of Jal Shakti, C. R. Paatil, chaired a high‑level review on Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0, emphasising digital mapping of rural water schemes. The government extended the mission to December 2028 and raised the financial outlay, with reforms aimed at improving service delivery, quality infrastructure, community participation, and long‑term sustainability. In the meeting, Minister of State for Jal Shakti V. Somanna and officials from the Public Health Engineering Department, Rural Water Supply, and Panchayati Raj discussed the implementation roadmap under JJM 2.0. A new Sujal Gaon ID system would digitally map each village’s water assets from source to household tap, supporting accountability and community participation. The discussion followed Cabinet approval for the extension and reforms. (Sources: Cabinet statements; ministry briefings).

Sujal Gaon ID to map service areas from source to tap
JJM 2.0 extended to December 2028 with higher outlay
Shift toward service delivery, governance, sustainability
Stakeholders: PHED, RWS, Panchayati Raj; V. Somanna participated
Cabinet approval for extension and reforms

Health Ministry Grants Lifetime Validity to FSSAI Licences, Ends Dual Licensing for Street Food V...

Health and Family Welfare Ministry approved perpetual validity for registrations and licences issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The reform aims to simplify compliance and reduce administrative burden, as recommended by NITI Aayog. Under the new framework, FSSAI licences and registrations will be valid indefinitely unless cancelled or suspended for violations. Street food vendors and food businesses no longer require periodic renewals, easing doing business and enabling smoother operations, especially for small enterprises. The change aligns with broader regulatory reforms to cut red tape and improve ease of doing business while maintaining safety standards through ongoing enforcement and periodic audits.

FSSAI licences/registrations now have perpetual validity.
Dual licensing for street food vendors ends; renewals are no longer required.
NITI Aayog recommended the change to simplify compliance.
Licences remain cancelable or suspendable for violations.

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