General Awareness

GOVERNMENT POLICIES AND SCHEMES - November 2025

Nov 2025

Jul 18, 2026

Harjit Singh Grewal appointed NCM Chairperson

The central government appointed Harjit Singh Grewal as the new Chairperson of the National Commission for Minorities (NCM) on 17 July 2026, for a three‑year term, succeeding Iqbal Singh Lalpura. S. Munavari Begum was named Vice‑Chairperson, and Glen E. Suze Ticklo was appointed as a member. The move aims to strengthen minority rights protection and representation in policy processes. The appointments were announced by the Ministry of Minority Affairs and reflect ongoing governance efforts. Must‑know in India in the last 48 hours: Grewal’s appointment to lead the NCM and the new leadership team were announced on 17 July 2026.

Position: Chairperson, National Commission for Minorities (NCM).
Term: Three years.
New appointees: S. Munavari Begum (Vice‑Chairperson), Glen E. Suze Ticklo (Member).
Purpose: Strengthen functioning and minority representation.
Context: Government oversight of minority welfare.

Jul 17, 2026

Delhi Government Approves Start‑Up and Innovation Policy with Rs 400 Crore Fund

The Delhi government approved a Start‑Up and Innovation policy, earmarking more than Rs 400 crore over five years to support startup incubation, mentorship, and related ecosystem activities. The policy, announced on 16 July 2026, aims to spur entrepreneurship, encourage investment, and create job opportunities in the national capital. The package includes grants, seed funding, and potential tax incentives, along with a structured framework for government collaboration with universities and industry partners. Officials emphasised transparency, outcome monitoring, and scalable support to help start‑ups transition from idea to market.

Delhi Start‑Up and Innovation policy approved
Funding pool of over Rs 400 crore for five years
Focus on incubation, mentoring, and investment
Includes grants, seed funding, and potential incentives
Aims to strengthen Delhi’s entrepreneurial ecosystem

Guidebook for Indian MSMEs to Go Global Launched

The Centre for Trade and Investment Law (CTIL), with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), released a guidebook titled Going Global: A Practical Guide for Indian MSMEs. The publication helps Indian micro, small and medium enterprises explore international markets and make informed export decisions. It covers market analysis, standards and certification requirements, and methods for identifying potential buyers. The guide also highlights freely available tools to reduce the cost of international market research. By outlining practical steps, templates, and best practices, the publication aims to empower MSMEs to plan and execute export ventures more efficiently.

CTIL and CII co‑publish Going Global for Indian MSMEs
Covers market analysis, standards, and certification
Guides on identifying international buyers
Highlights cost‑reducing tools for market research
Aims to boost MSME exports and global reach
Practical templates and step‑by‑step guidance

UP Launches Kaushal Setu and Kaushal Sarathi Portals for Skill Development (World Youth Skills Da...

Uttar Pradesh marked World Youth Skills Day 2026 by launching Kaushal Setu and Kaushal Sarathi portals to digitalise skill development. Kaushal Setu enables online registration and empanelment of training partners, while Kaushal Sarathi provides information on training centres, courses and opportunities, aiming to improve accessibility and transparency in vocational training across the state. Officials emphasised streamlined onboarding, better alignment with industry needs, and easier monitoring of outcomes through these platforms. The rollout aligns with UP’s broader aim to build a robust, tech‑driven skilling ecosystem.

World Youth Skills Day 2026 launch date linked to UP portals
Kaushal Setu: online registration and empanelment
Kaushal Sarathi: info on centres, courses, opportunities
Intended to improve accessibility, transparency, and outcomes
Supports UP’s deep‑tech skilling and industry alignment
Sources: Free Press Journal, Srishti IAS, Invest UP

Kaushal Setu and Kaushal Sarathi Portals Launched in Uttar Pradesh

In July 2026, the Government of Uttar Pradesh launched the Kaushal Setu and Kaushal Sarathi portals to strengthen the state’s skill‑development ecosystem. Kaushal Setu digitalizes registration and empanelment of training partners, while Kaushal Sarathi provides information on training centres, courses, and opportunities. The portals aim to improve transparency, accessibility, and coordination in vocational training across UP, linking stakeholders with government schemes and industry needs. The initiative forms part of UP’s broader push to accelerate deep‑tech and industry‑relevant skilling in a fast‑growing economy.

Kaushal Setu and Kaushal Sarathi portals launched
Digital registration and empanelment for training partners
Info on training centres, courses, opportunities
Aims to improve transparency and coordination in UP skilling

Jul 16, 2026

Bihar launches Heli-Tourism and Air Tourism Scheme 2026

Patna hosts the Mukhyamantri Bihar Heli-Tourism and Air Tourism Service Scheme 2026, launched by the Bihar government. The scheme is a joint effort of the Tourism Department and the Civil Aviation Department to provide subsidised helicopter and air tourism services to selected destinations across Bihar. Officials say the plan will improve connectivity between major religious and tourist sites and promote local economic activity. The programme targets popular circuits in the state and aligns with state plans to develop air mobility infrastructure. Services will be facilitated through public-private partnerships and a subsidy mechanism designed to make trips affordable for visitors and pilgrims.

Scheme announced in Patna by the Bihar government.
Subsidised helicopter and air tourism across Bihar.
Joint implementation by Tourism and Civil Aviation Depts.
Aims to improve connectivity to religious and tourist sites.
PPP model and subsidies to make trips affordable.

GI tags awarded to Unjha cumin and fennel from Gujarat

Geographical Indication registrations were granted in July 2026 for Unjha cumin and Unjha fennel from Gujarat by the Geographical Indications Registry. The GI tag provides legal protection and helps position these products in national and international markets. The Unjha region's climate and farming practices have shaped the distinctive aromas and quality of the cumin and fennel. The recognition is expected to boost branding, export prospects, and livelihoods for local farmers by ensuring product authenticity and preventing mislabeling. Industry analysts say it could support quality control, price premiums, and regional marketing campaigns. The move aligns with government efforts to safeguard traditional products and boost rural incomes.

GI registrations granted in July 2026 for Unjha cumin and fennel.
GI tag provides legal protection and branding advantages.
Unjha climate and farming practices shape quality.
Aims to boost livelihoods and prevent mislabeling.
Potential for quality control, price premiums, and regional marketing.

Seafarer-First initiative launched to protect Indian seafarers amid West Asia security concerns

Seafarer-First is a new initiative launched by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, to protect Indian seafarers working in conflict-affected regions. The programme aims to strengthen safety, coordination, and support mechanisms for Indian maritime personnel during overseas operations. Officials say the scheme will improve emergency response, repatriation, legal assistance, and welfare services for sailors at sea and ashore. It comes as maritime security concerns rise in West Asia after attacks on merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The approach involves closer coordination with coast guards, shipping companies, and Indian missions, enabling timely information and assistance during crises.

Seafarer-First initiative launched by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.
Aims to strengthen safety, coordination and support for Indian maritime personnel overseas.
Focus on emergency response, repatriation, legal aid and welfare services.
Motive is rising West Asia security concerns after Strait of Hormuz incidents.
Emphasises closer coordination with coast guards, shipping firms and Indian missions for timely assistance.

Jul 15, 2026

India–UK Free Trade Agreement Takes Effect

India and the United Kingdom have activated the India–United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement with effect from 15 July 2026. The pact aims to broaden market access, lower tariffs, and strengthen investment ties across a wide range of goods and services. Officials expect the agreement to boost bilateral trade, support job creation, and diversify supply chains. It covers sectors such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and information technology, with progressive tariff reduction and simplified customs rules. The deal also emphasizes better regulatory cooperation, greater cooperation on services trade, and protection of intellectual property. Both governments intend to reach higher volumes of commerce, with a goal of US$100 billion in bilateral trade by 2030.

Implementation date: 15 July 2026
Bilateral trade target: US$100 billion by 2030
Covers goods and services with tariff reductions
Sectors highlighted: electronics, pharma, textiles, IT
Emphasis on regulatory cooperation and IP protection

Jul 14, 2026

NABARD launches Gramodyam for rural youth entrepreneurship

July 2026 — NABARD launched Gramodyam, an entrepreneurship development programme for rural youth, on its 45th Foundation Day. The initiative aims to help young people in rural areas start sustainable enterprises, build business skills, and create livelihood opportunities. Training and mentorship will guide new entrepreneurs in farming, crafts, and services. The program seeks to strengthen rural entrepreneurship, promote inclusive growth, and support micro, small, and medium enterprises in rural districts. It complements NABARD’s existing schemes for credit, marketing, and capacity building, with a focus on long-term livelihood and community resilience.

Gramodyam launched on NABARD’s 45th Foundation Day
Targets rural youth entrepreneurship
Includes training and mentorship
Focus on sustainable enterprises and livelihoods
Supports rural MSMEs and capacity building
Aligns with NABARD credit and marketing schemes

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