Government Schemes Current Affairs

Government Schemes and latest Development, Important for Competitive Exams. 

Central Sector Scheme for providing drones to the Women’s Self Help Groups(SHGs)

  1. Central Sector Scheme for Drones: The Union Cabinet has approved a Central Sector Scheme on 28 November 2023, that involves providing drones to Women’s Self Help Groups (SHGs).
  2. Beneficiaries and Purpose: The scheme will benefit 15,000 selected Women’s SHGs from 2023-24 to 2025-2026. These groups will offer drone rental services to farmers for various agricultural uses.
  3. Financial Outlay: The Central Sector Scheme for providing drones has been sanctioned with a budget of 1261 crore rupees.

Q: Who are the main beneficiaries of the Central Sector Scheme for Drones?
a. Urban youth
b. Men’s Self Help Groups
c. Women’s Self Help Groups
d. Agricultural cooperatives

Answer: c. Women’s Self Help Groups

Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY) extended for an additional five years

Extension of PMGKAY: The Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY) has been extended by the Government for an additional five years starting from January 1, 2024.

Free Food Grains: Under PMGKAY, eligible beneficiaries will receive five kilograms of free food grains per month. This initiative aims to benefit over 81 crore impoverished individuals across the country.

Q: What is the main objective of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY) extension?
a. Providing free medical services
b. Offering financial assistance to farmers
c. Supplying five kilograms of free food grains monthly to the eligible beneficiaries
d. Promoting women’s self-help groups

Ans : c. Supplying five kilograms of free food grains monthly to the eligible beneficiaries

Government renames Ayushman Bharat-Health and Wellness Centres as Ayushman Arogya Mandir

  • The central government, on November 26, 2023, renamed Ayushman Bharat-Health and Wellness Centres to Ayushman Arogya Mandir.
  • The tagline accompanying the renaming is “Arogyam Paramam Dhanam.”
  • The Union Health Ministry issued guidelines to all States and Union Territories for the replacement of the existing title in operationalized Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres.
  • The Ministry requested the upload of pictures of primary health facilities after successfully completing the renaming task.

Q: What is the new name given to Ayushman Bharat-Health and Wellness Centres by central government in the month of November 2023?

a) Arogya Seva Kendra
b) Ayushman Arogya Mandir
c) Health Wellness Hub
d) Swasthya Parivar Center

Ans : b) Ayushman Arogya Mandir

PM Modi launched Pradhan Mantri Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) Development Mission

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Pradhan Mantri Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) Development Mission, a scheme with a budget of 24,000 crore rupees.

  • The launch took place on November 15, 2023, during the third Janjaatiya Gaurav Diwas in the Khunti district of Jharkhand.
  • The PVTG Development Mission aims to benefit 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups in 18 states and Union Territories, residing in 22,544 villages across 220 districts, with a total population of approximately 28 lakhs.

Janjatiya Gaurav Divas is celebrated on 15 November to remember the contribution of tribal freedom fighters in Indian independence. November 15 is the birthday of the great tribal warrior Birsa Munda.

Q.: On which occasion did Prime Minister Narendra Modi launch the Pradhan Mantri Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) Development Mission?

a. Republic Day
b. Independence Day
c. Janjaatiya Gaurav Diwas
d. Gandhi Jayanti

Ans : c. Janjaatiya Gaurav Diwas

Q.: What is the significance of November 15 in relation to Janjatiya Gaurav Divas?

a. It marks the Independence Day
b. It is the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda
c. It is the anniversary of the B R Ambedkar
d. It is the International Day of Tribes

Ans : b. It is the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda

Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) : Government approves establishment of an autonomous body

The government has approved the establishment of an autonomous body called “Mera Yuva Bharat” (MY Bharat) with the aim of youth development and youth-led development.

  1. MY Bharat is designed to provide equitable access to youth to help them achieve their aspirations and contribute to the development of the nation.
  2. There are approximately 40 crore (400 million) youths in India who fall within the age group of 15-29 years.
  3. MY Bharat is envisioned as a technology-powered, overarching enabling mechanism for youth development.
  4. The goal of MY Bharat is to channel the energy of the youth for nation-building by facilitating their role as “Yuva Setu” (Youth Bridge) between the government and citizens.
  5. The formal dedication of Mera Yuva Bharat to the nation will take place on October 31, which coincides with the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, often referred to as the “Iron Man” of India.

MCQs on Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat)

Q.: What is the primary purpose of the autonomous body “Mera Yuva Bharat” (MY Bharat)?

a. Promoting sports and athletics among youth
b. Fostering cultural development in rural areas
c. Development of youth and youth-led development
d. Advancing environmental conservation initiatives

Ans : c. Development of youth and youth-led development

Q.: How many young individuals in India fall within the age group of 15-29 years, according to the provided information?

a. Approximately 20 crore
b. Around 30 crore
c. Approximately 40 crore
d. Nearly 50 crore

Ans : c. Approximately 40 crore

Q.: When is Mera Yuva Bharat scheduled to be dedicated to the nation?

a. On India’s Independence Day, August 15th
b. On New Year’s Day, January 1st
c. On the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, October 31st
d. On Youth Day, January 12th

Ans : c. On the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, October 31st

ABHA (Ayushman Bharat Health Account) : Highlights and important information

The ABHA (Ayushman Bharat Health Account) – Digital Health Account is a revolutionary platform designed to empower individuals in managing their health more effectively. Here are the key highlights and important information about ABHA:

Key Highlights:

  1. Accessible Anytime, Anywhere: ABHA is a web-based platform accessible from computers, tablets, and smartphones, enabling users to manage health records and access healthcare services from the comfort of their home.
  2. Centralized Health Records: Users can securely store all their medical records, prescriptions, and reports in one place, making it easy to retrieve health history when needed.
  3. Privacy and Security: ABHA prioritizes the security of health data through robust encryption, ensuring the privacy of users’ information.
  4. Appointment Booking: Users can conveniently schedule appointments with healthcare professionals, avoiding long queues and wait times through online booking.
  5. Telemedicine Services: ABHA allows users to connect with doctors through teleconsultations, enabling them to receive medical advice, prescriptions, and follow-up care remotely.
  6. Health Monitoring: Users can track vital signs and health metrics, set health goals, and achieve them using integrated tools.
  7. Medication Reminders: ABHA provides medication reminders, ensuring users never miss a dose and helping them stay on top of their prescription regimen for better health management.
  8. Personalized Insights: Users receive tailored health insights and recommendations, facilitating informed decisions for a healthier life.

Benefits of ABHA:

  • Simplifies healthcare management.
  • Reduces paperwork and administrative hassles.
  • Enhances doctor-patient communication.
  • Empowers individuals to play an active role in their health.

How to Create ABHA: Creating an ABHA is a straightforward process with multiple convenient options to cater to the diverse needs of citizens:

  1. Online Registration via ABHA Portal (abha.abdm.gov.in): Citizens can initiate the ABHA creation process by visiting the dedicated ABHA portal, accessible at abha.abdm.gov.in. This user-friendly online platform allows individuals to set up their ABHA quickly and efficiently.
  2. ABHA Mobile App or Partner Apps: Users can download the official ABHA app or partner apps affiliated with the All India Radio Digital Mission (ABDM), such as Aarogya Setu, Driefcase, and Ekacare, to self-register for an ABHA account. This mobile-friendly approach allows citizens to manage their health records and access healthcare services from their smartphones.
  3. Government Programs Integration: ABHA seamlessly integrates with various Central and State Government healthcare programs like CoWin, NCD, RCH, Nikshay, and more. Citizens benefiting from government healthcare initiatives are automatically enrolled in the ABHA ecosystem, streamlining their access to digital health management.
  4. Assisted Mode Creation: For those who may not have easy access to digital tools or require assistance, ABHA can be created in assisted mode. Hospitals, Customer Service Centres, and other healthcare facilities are equipped to help citizens set up their ABHA accounts during their visits.

Additional Information:

  • Yes, one mobile number can be linked to up to 6 Aadhaar Numbers for communication and authentication purposes.
  • In areas with limited or no connectivity, government programs can collect citizen data and create Aadhaar for them, as successfully implemented by the Governments of Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

To get started, visit abha.abdm.gov.in to create your ABHA Digital Health Account and take the first step towards improved health management and peace of mind.

MCQs about ABHA

Q.: What is ABHA?

A. A cooking app
B. A digital health account
C. A fitness tracker
D. A social media platform

B. A digital health account

Q.: How many Aadhaar Numbers can be linked to one mobile number for communication and authentication purposes?

A. One
B. Two
C. Three
D. Six

Ans : D. Six

PM SVANidhi Scheme : More than 50 lakh Street Vendors covered

The PM SVANidhi scheme has achieved a milestone by extending its support to more than 50 lakh street vendors across the nation. Street vendors are essential to the urban informal economy and provide vital goods and services.

  1. The scheme, initiated by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, aims to formalize the street vending sector and create opportunities for economic growth.
  2. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pushed for the expansion of the scheme, leading to revised targets.
  3. The scheme, launched on June 1, 2020, offers collateral-free working capital loans of up to 50 thousand rupees to urban street vendors.

MCQs

Q.: What is the main objective of the PM SVANidhi scheme?

A) To provide housing to street vendors
B) To offer free healthcare to street vendors
C) To provide collateral-free working capital loans to street vendors
D) To promote street vending as a career option

Ans : C) To provide collateral-free working capital loans to street vendors

Q.: What is the maximum amount of working capital loan offered under the PM SVANidhi scheme?

A) 10 thousand rupees
B) 25 thousand rupees
C) 50 thousand rupees
D) 1 lakh rupees

Ans : C) 50 thousand rupees

‘Ek Tareekh, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath’ Campaign on October 1, 2023 to commemorate Gandhi Jayanti

‘Ek Tareekh, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath’ Campaign: This is a mega cleanliness drive organized to commemorate Gandhi Jayanti. The cleanliness drive is scheduled for October 1st, Sunday, at 10 am.

  1. Objective: The campaign is a precursor to the ‘Swachhata Pakhwada- Swachhata Hi Seva’ 2023 initiative.
  2. PM’s Appeal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for 1 hour of shramdaan (voluntary labor) for cleanliness at 10 am on October 1st, encouraging all citizens to participate.
  3. National Address: PM Modi addressed the nation, urging people to contribute to the cleanliness campaign in their streets, neighborhoods, parks, rivers, lakes, or any other public place.
  4. Date and Time: The cleanliness drive is scheduled for October 1st, Sunday, at 10 am.
  5. Duration of Swachhata Pakhwada: The Swachhata Pakhwada – Swachhata Hi Seva 2023 campaign spans from September 15th to October 2nd.

Q.: What is the objective of the ‘Ek Tareekh, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath’ Campaign”, a mega cleanliness drive ?

a) To celebrate Diwali
b) To commemorate Gandhi Jayanti
c) To promote cricket
d) To encourage shopping

Answer: b) To commemorate Gandhi Jayanti

PM Vishwakarma Scheme for Empowering Traditional Artisans and Craftspeople

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch the “PM Vishwakarma” scheme on September 17, 2023, in New Delhi. The scheme aims to support and promote traditional crafts and artisans. It will be fully funded by the Union Government with an allocation of Rs 13,000 crore.

  1. Artisans, referred to as Vishwakarmas, will be registered for free through Common Services Centres using a biometric-based portal.
  2. Vishwakarmas will receive recognition through a certificate and ID card, skill training, a toolkit incentive of ₹15,000, and collateral-free credit support at concessional interest rates.
  3. The scheme focuses on preserving the Guru-Shishya parampara (teacher-student tradition) and improving the quality and reach of artisanal products and services.
  4. It covers 18 traditional crafts, including carpentry, blacksmithing, pottery, weaving, and more.
  5. The scheme targets both rural and urban artisans across India.
  6. It aims to integrate artisans into domestic and global value chains.
  7. PM Vishwakarma will incentivize digital transactions and provide marketing support to artisans and craftspeople.

Q.: What is the primary objective of the PM Vishwakarma Scheme?

a) Promoting modern industries
b) Preserving traditional crafts and supporting artisans
c) Enhancing agricultural productivity
d) Boosting the tourism sector

Ans : b) Preserving traditional crafts and supporting artisans

Cabinet Approves extension of PM Ujjwala Yojana for three years

The Government has approved expansion of PM Ujjwala Yojana, a scheme to provide support for LPG connections to women on 13th September 2023 during a cabinet meeting.

  1. The scheme aims to release a total of 75 lakh LPG connections over a period of three years, from the Financial Year 2023-24 to 2025-26.
  2. The scheme’s total financial implication is one thousand 650 crore rupees.
  3. Under the scheme, 75 lakh free LPG connections will be provided to women from poor and needy families to enable them to benefit from the Ujjwala scheme.
  4. As per the existing modalities of Ujjawala 2.0, the first refill and stove will also be provided free of cost to Ujjwala beneficiaries.
  5. To date, 9.60 crore LPG cylinders have been distributed under the Ujjwala scheme, indicating its widespread impact and reach.

Q.: What is the purpose of the PM Ujjwala Yojana?

a) Supporting LPG suppliers
b) Providing free LPG connections to women
c) Reducing LPG prices
d) Enhancing LPG cylinder safety

Ans : b) Providing free LPG connections to women

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