General Awareness

GOVERNMENT POLICIES AND SCHEMES - January 2025

Jan 2025

Feb 27, 2026

Nitin Gadkari launches upgraded RAJMARG PRAVESH portal

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari launched the upgraded RAJMARG PRAVESH web portal to streamline the No Objection Certificate process for access and utility works along National Highways. The portal aims to simplify procedures, enhance transparency and promote ease of doing business. It enables online applications for permissions related to fuel stations, wayside amenities, private properties, rest area complexes and connecting roads along National Highways. The upgraded system promises faster, more transparent and time‑bound approvals. The rollout is planned as a pilot across seven major locations, with possible subsequent expansion to support highway projects and related private investment.

RAJMARG PRAVESH now accepts online applications for highway access permissions.
The upgrade aims to enhance transparency and speed in approvals for NOC‑related works.
Pilot deployment covers seven major locations.
The portal supports permissions for fuel stations, wayside amenities and private properties along highways.
It aligns with ease of doing business and faster project clearances.

Feb 26, 2026

TRAI marks 29th Foundation Day with emphasis on inclusion and network policy

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) celebrated its 29th Foundation Day on 20 February 2026, highlighting achievements since 1997. The event gathered government officials, industry leaders, and academics to consider policy directions for digital inclusion. The themes included ‘Taking TV to All Homes: Policy, Technology and Business Strategies for Inclusion’ and ‘Network Slicing and Net Neutrality’ to balance access with innovation. Chairperson Anil Kumar Lahoti inaugurated the ceremony alongside senior TRAI members. The discussion reflected on India’s evolving telecom and broadcasting environment, with a focus on expanding reach, ensuring fair access, and guiding future investment. (Source: TRAI Foundation Day release)

TRAI observed 29th Foundation Day on 20 February 2026
Themes included TV accessibility and net neutrality
Policy emphasis on inclusion and network innovation
Inauguration by TRAI chair and senior members

NAMASTE scheme awareness event to be held in Pilibhit on 26 February 2026

An awareness programme for the National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) will be organised on 26 February 2026 at Gandhi Prekshagrih, Gandhi Stadium, Nakhasa, Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh. The event aims to raise awareness about the scheme and bolster social security for sewer and septic workers, including PPE kits distribution and Ayushman Cards for eligible beneficiaries. The programme aligns with Government efforts to improve worker safety and healthcare access, while encouraging formal recognition and social security provisions for sanitation labour. (Source: Pilibhit district notice)

NAMASTE awareness programme on 26 February 2026
Event location: Pilibhit, UP
PPE kits distributed; Ayushman Cards provided
Focus on safety and healthcare access for SSW workers

Feb 25, 2026

Badhna Hai Toh Yahan Judna Hai campaign accelerates India’s digital skilling push

A nationwide campaign titled ‘Badhna Hai Toh Yahan Judna Hai’ was launched to accelerate India’s digital skilling movement via the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH). Minister Jayant Chaudhary announced the initiative to broaden SIDH access and expand skilling, employment, and lifelong learning. The campaign leverages initiatives like India Stack to showcase digital capability and includes Amitabh Bachchan as a public ambassador to boost awareness and participation. Officials emphasise that expanding digital skilling will prepare citizens for evolving job markets and drive inclusive growth across the country.

Campaign launched to expand SIDH reach for digital skilling.
Minister Jayant Chaudhary leads the effort; Amitabh Bachchan promotional role.
Link to India Stack and broader Skill India initiatives.
Goal: broaden access to skilling, employment, lifelong learning.
Aims to prepare citizens for a digital economy.

Delhi to implement Rah-Veer scheme to reward Good Samaritans

The Delhi government will implement the Centre’s Rah-Veer scheme to reward individuals who assist seriously injured road accident victims. Eligible bystanders can receive ₹25,000 plus a certificate of appreciation, with claims assessed by a district-level committee. The scheme seeks to ensure medical care within the ‘golden hour’ and provides legal protection for Good Samaritans. Ten exemplary rescuers nationwide may receive an additional award of ₹1 lakh. The Centre supports the initiative to improve emergency response and public participation in road safety, complementing ongoing Delhi safety measures and urban transport planning.

Rah-Veer scheme to reward bystanders aiding accident victims.
Cash prize of ₹25,000 plus certificate; assessments by district committee.
Aim: ensure treatment within the ‘golden hour’.
Legal protection for Good Samaritans included.
National awards: ₹1 lakh for 10 top Good Samaritans.

Rah-Veer scheme rolled out in Delhi to reward Good Samaritans

Delhi government announces rollout of the Centre’s Rah-Veer scheme to recognize bystanders who assist seriously injured road accident victims. The plan offers ₹25,000 in reward money and a certificate of appreciation, with claims evaluated by a district-level committee. The objective is to catalyse immediate medical help within the critical golden hour and provide legal protection to Good Samaritans. The scheme also contemplates a nationwide awards program to incentivize humanitarian action. Officials stress that rapid public response can reduce road-death tolls in busy urban corridors like Delhi.

Delhi implements Rah-Veer for bystander assistance.
Reward of ₹25,000 plus certificate; district committee reviews claims.
Aims to secure medical care within the ‘golden hour’.
Legal protection for Good Samaritans included.
National-level awards may accompany the scheme.

India set to launch its first comprehensive carbon trading programme

India is nearing the launch of its first comprehensive carbon trading programme, the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS). Officials from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency say the scheme will cover an emission period from April 2025 to March 2026. Under CCTS, designated units must meet emission targets; those under the limit can earn credits, while those exceeding limits must buy credits or face penalties. The programme aims to improve transparency, measurement, and compliance with national climate goals. Verifiers are being recruited to ensure accurate reporting and verification of emissions data.

Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) nearing launch.
Coverage: period April 2025 to March 2026.
Emissions targets set for industrial units; credits awarded for under-fulfilment.
Penalties for over-emitters; credits purchasable trade.
Verifiers being recruited for compliance and transparency.

Feb 24, 2026

Mobile labs launched to ensure National Highway quality

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has launched Mobile Quality Control Vans (MQCVs) to monitor ongoing highway construction projects. Pilot runs are underway in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Karnataka and Odisha. These mobile labs are equipped with advanced non‑destructive testing tools to ensure road quality and durability. A National Highway Quality Monitoring Portal with real‑time GPS tracking is being developed to improve transparency and accountability. The MoRTH initiative emphasizes quality and safety alongside road expansion, aligning with India’s broader push to maintain high infrastructure standards while expanding transport networks.

Initiative: Mobile Quality Control Vans (MQCVs) for highways.
Pilot sites: Rajasthan, Gujarat, Karnataka, Odisha.
Technology: non‑destructive testing tools on mobile labs.
Portal: National Highway Quality Monitoring Portal with GPS tracking.
Policy aim: enhance quality, safety and durability of highways.

National Arogya Fair 2026 to boost Ayush and farmer livelihoods

The Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, in collaboration with the All India Ayurvedic Congress, will organise the National Arogya Fair 2026 at Shegaon in Maharashtra’s Buldhana district from 25 to 28 February 2026. The four‑day event aims to promote Ayush systems of medicine, expand public access to traditional healthcare, and create sustainable livelihoods for farmers through medicinal plant cultivation and agroforestry. The fair will be inaugurated on 25 February by President Droupadi Murmu at Visava Maidan, Sant Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan. The Governor of Maharashtra, Union Minister of Ayush Shri Prataprao Jadhav, and other dignitaries will attend. The event supports rural livelihoods and national health policy goals.

Dates: 25–28 February 2026; location: Shegaon, Buldhana district, Maharashtra.
Objective: promote Ayush medicine and traditional healthcare access.
Livelihood focus: farmers through medicinal plants and agroforestry.
Inauguration: 25 February 2026 by President Droupadi Murmu at Visava Maidan.
Attendees: Governor of Maharashtra, Union Minister of Ayush Prataprao Jadhav.

Feb 23, 2026

Karnataka Weighs Mobile Phone Ban for Under-16s

The Karnataka government is considering a proposal to restrict or ban mobile phone use for students under 16 years old. The issue was discussed in the State Assembly and in meetings with university vice-chancellors, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah asking for opinions on limiting mobile device access. Proponents cite digital addiction and exposure to harmful online content, while critics warn about practical and educational implications. Several countries have already started regulatory measures on minors’ digital use. A final policy is yet to be announced, with stakeholders awaiting formal guidance from the government.

Proposal to ban mobile phones for under-16s discussed in Karnataka.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah seeks views from universities and others.
Concerns cited: digital addiction and exposure to harmful content.
Some other countries have begun similar restrictions.
No final policy announced yet.

Goa Chief Minister Launches Davem–Sanvordem Bridge Project

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant launched the Davem–Sanvordem Bridge project in Sattari taluka. The Rs 29.9 crore project will replace the existing narrow single-lane bridge with a two-lane structure and include pedestrian footpaths to improve safety. The project, undertaken by the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation for the Public Works Department, will also add approach roads to ease traffic flow and accessibility. The bridge will connect Davem and Sanvordem villages, reducing travel time for residents and commuters across the region.

Davem–Sanvordem Bridge launched in Sattari taluka.
Rs 29.9 crore project; replaces single-lane bridge with two-lane structure.
Includes pedestrian footpaths and approach roads.
Constructed by GSIDC for the PWD.
Improves regional connectivity and traffic flow.

L&T Vyoma to Study 250 MW Green AI Data Centre at Dholera SIR

At the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, Gujarat signed an MoU with L&T Vyoma to explore a 250 MW green AI-ready data centre at Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR). The proposed ₹25,000 crore investment aims to make Dholera SIR a major hub for artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and sustainable digital infrastructure. The MoU was signed between the Gujarat Department of Science and Technology and L&T Vyoma. Officials say the project will advance energy-efficient data processing and attract further tech investment to the state.

MoU signed at India AI Impact Summit 2026.
Project: 250 MW green AI-ready data centre at Dholera SIR.
Investment: ₹25,000 crore.
Goals: AI infrastructure hub; sustainable digital infrastructure.
Partnership between Gujarat DoST and L&T Vyoma.

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