Are you curious about the various welfare schemes and government programs available to benefit citizens in India? The Indian government has launched initiatives across sectors like agriculture, healthcare, education, and rural development. These efforts aim to uplift and support its diverse population Central Government Schemes. But how can one navigate through the numerous schemes and determine their eligibility criteria?
Central Government Schemes Benefits and Programs 2024
The Central Government Schemes government, in collaboration with state governments, has introduced a multitude of welfare schemes targeting different sections of society. These schemes provide financial assistance, generate employment opportunities, enhance skills, and improve living standards. From the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) for farmers to the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) for healthcare, the government has launched various initiatives to benefit citizens across the nation. Central Government Schemes
To ensure that the intended beneficiaries can easily access these schemes, the government has simplified the application processes and eligibility criteria. In most cases, having a valid Aadhaar card is a crucial requirement for availing the benefits under these government programs. By linking welfare schemes to Aadhaar, the government aims to streamline the delivery of benefits and prevent any misuse or duplication of resources. Central Government Schemes
Key Takeaways
- The Indian government offers a wide range of welfare schemes and programs for citizens across various sectors Central Government Schemes
- Schemes are launched by the central government, state governments, or as collaborations between the two Central Government Schemes
- Eligibility criteria and application processes are simplified to ensure easy access for beneficiaries Central Government Schemes
- Linking welfare schemes to Aadhaar helps streamline benefit delivery and prevent misuse of resources
- Significant expenditure has been allocated to schemes like PM-KISAN, PMGKAY, and MGNREGA in various states Central Government Schemes
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) is a central government scheme aimed at supporting eligible farmers in India. It was launched on 1 February 2019. The scheme provides a minimum income support of ₹6,000 per year. This amount is split into three equal installments of ₹2,000 every four months, directly credited to farmers’ bank accounts.
By 2023, the PM-KISAN scheme had an annual budget of ₹75,000 crore (approximately US$11 billion). It covers around 120 million beneficiaries. The total amount disbursed has exceeded ₹2.60 lakh crore, benefiting over 11 crore farmers. In the financial year 2022-23, ₹58,201.85 crore was given to eligible beneficiaries. Central Government Schemes
Eligibility Criteria for PM-KISAN
To qualify for the PM-KISAN scheme, farmers must fulfill specific criteria: Central Government Schemes
- Must be a small or marginal farmer with cultivable land ownership
- Must be an Indian citizen
- Must possess an Aadhaar card for identification and verification purposes
However, certain groups are not eligible, including institutional landholders, government officials, public sector undertaking officials, and pensioners above a certain threshold.
Benefits Under PM-KISAN Scheme
Eligible farmers under the PM-KISAN scheme receive several benefits:
| Benefit | Amount | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum income support | ₹6,000 per year | Credited in three equal installments of ₹2,000 every four months |
Farmers can register for the scheme through various channels. These include designated nodal officers, revenue officers, Common Service Centres, or the official PM-KISAN website. Required documents include an Aadhar card, proof of citizenship, land ownership documents, and bank account details. Beneficiaries can check their status and view the list of beneficiaries online using their Aadhar number, mobile number, or account number. Central Government Schemes
Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)
The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) is a key initiative aimed at boosting livelihood security in rural areas. It ensures at least 100 days of guaranteed wage employment annually for every household. This is for those who volunteer to perform unskilled manual work. Introduced on August 23, 2005, and starting in February 2006, MGNREGA is a legal right. It helps in creating lasting assets and enhancing the livelihood resources of the rural poor. Central Government Schemes
Under MGNREGA, rural employment is guaranteed to at least one member of every Indian rural household. The program prioritizes works where at least one-third of wage seekers are women. It strives to ensure that at least 50% of available jobs are given to women. All rural households in need of wage employment are eligible, with the government obligated to provide employment within 15 days of application. Central Government Schemes
The scheme focuses on labor-intensive projects like water conservation, irrigation canals, and rural connectivity. It also includes agriculture-related tasks and rural sanitation. Workers receive a minimum wage of Rs. 374 per manday, with equal pay for men and women. An unemployment allowance is applicable if employment is not provided within 15 days, with rates varying based on the delay duration. Central Government Schemes
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Guarantee | 100 days of employment per year to every rural household |
| Women Empowerment | At least one-third of beneficiaries are women, with efforts to ensure 50% participation |
| Asset Creation | Focuses on creating productive assets such as water conservation structures and rural roads |
| Transparency | Social audits conducted to ensure accountability in project implementation |
| Wage Payment | Electronic Fund Management System (e-FMS) used for direct wage transfer to worker bank accounts |
MGNREGA provides a job guarantee and focuses on sustainable rural development. It has become vital for enhancing livelihood security and combating poverty in rural India. The World Bank has praised MGNREGA as a “stellar example of rural development” in its World Development Report 2014. It highlights the program’s significant impact on millions of rural households across the country. Central Government Schemes
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)
The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) is a key initiative by the Indian government. It aims to make housing affordable for all. The scheme targets both rural and urban areas, focusing on the economically weaker sections (EWS) and low-income groups (LIG). By March 2024, PMAY plans to build 2 crore affordable houses, ensuring every family has a pucca house with basic amenities. Central Government Schemes
PMAY is split into two parts: Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin (PMAY-G) for rural areas and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U) for cities. The government has set aside significant funds for both, with a budget of US$ 6.54 billion for PMAY Rural and US$ 3.14 billion for Central Government Schemes PMAY Urban in the 2024-2025 Interim Budget.
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin (PMAY-G)
PMAY-G aims to provide sturdy houses with basic amenities to rural homeless families and those living in poor conditions. The Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) aims to build 2,95,00,000 houses by March 2024. As of February 1, 2024, over 2.94 crore houses have been sanctioned. Central Government Schemes
The government has given Rs. 1,60,853.38 crore to States/UTs for house construction under PMAY-G over five years. States/UTs have used Rs. 2,39,334.02 crore, including their shares, for construction. Central Government Schemes
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U)
PMAY-U targets the urban poor with initiatives like in-situ slum redevelopment and credit-linked subsidies. It aims to build houses in 2,508 cities and towns across 26 states. Central Government Schemes
The government has approved US$ 96.83 billion for housing under PMAY-U. In January 2021, over 1.68 lakh houses were approved for urban areas. Budget 2021-2022 provided US$ 205.32 million for PMAY-U and an additional US$ 133.15 million for the Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS-I). Central Government Schemes
| Income Category | Annual Household Income | Interest Subsidy |
|---|---|---|
| Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) | Under Rs. 3 lakh | 6.5% |
| Low-Income Groups (LIG) | Rs. 3 lakh to Rs. 6 lakh | 6.5% |
| Middle-Income Groups (MIG-I) | Rs. 6 lakh to Rs. 12 lakh | 4% |
| Middle-Income Groups (MIG-II) | Rs. 12 lakh to Rs. 18 lakh | 3% |
The government offers interest subsidies on housing loans for 20 years under the CLSS. Subsidies range from 3% to 6.5% based on income. Private banks like ICICI Bank also offer subsidized home loans under PMAY.
By April 2021, 1.37 crore houses were built under PMAY. The Union Budget 2021-22 extended extra deductions for housing loans until March 31, 2022, supporting the affordable housing sector.
Skill India Mission
The Skill India Mission, launched in 2015, is a flagship initiative of the Indian government. It aims to empower the country’s youth through skill development and vocational training. The mission targets training over 40 crore individuals by 2022. It focuses on imparting industry-relevant skills to enhance employability and foster youth empowerment.
India faces a significant skill gap, with only 2% of its workforce formally skilled as per a 2014 report. Moreover, a mere 10% of the Indian workforce receives skill training. This is compared to 75% in Germany, 80% in Japan, and 96% in South Korea. The Skill India Mission aims to bridge this gap and create a competent and qualified workforce.
Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)
Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) is the flagship scheme under the Skill India Mission. It aims to provide industry-relevant skill training to Indian youth. This enables them to secure better livelihoods. The scheme includes components like the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Central Government Schemes
National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS)
The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) is another critical initiative under the Skill India Mission. It aims to promote apprenticeship training and engage 50 lakh youth by 2020. The scheme provides financial support to employers for engaging apprentices. This makes it an attractive option for both employers and aspiring apprentices. Central Government Schemes
| Scheme | Target | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Skill India Mission | Train over 40 crore individuals by 2022 | Impart industry-relevant skills, enhance employability |
| PMKVY | Provide skill training to Indian youth | Includes NSQF and RPL components |
| NAPS | Engage 50 lakh youth in apprenticeship by 2020 | Provides financial support to employers |
The Skill India Mission, through its various initiatives and schemes, is working towards creating an empowered and skilled workforce. It aims to contribute to the nation’s economic growth and development. By focusing on skill development, vocational training, and youth empowerment, the mission aims to transform India into a skill hub. It also aims to improve the overall employability of its citizens. Central Government Schemes
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, initiated on October 2, 2014, aims to make India clean by October 2, 2019. This date marks the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The mission targets the elimination of open defecation and enhances solid waste management. It does this through the construction of toilets for households and communities, and by setting up systems to monitor their use. Central Government Schemes
Support for the campaign has been widespread, coming from all walks of life. Government officials, Bollywood stars, sports icons, industrialists, and spiritual leaders have all contributed. Millions have joined cleanliness drives organized by government bodies, NGOs, and local centers. Their efforts are part of the ‘Jan Andolan’ of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. Central Government Schemes
Significant progress has been made, with over 100 million toilets built for individual households. More than 6 lakh villages have been declared Open Defecation Free (ODF) by 2019. The World Health Organization (WHO) noted a 300,000 decrease in diarrheal deaths in 2019 compared to 2014. This reduction is directly linked to better sanitation under the mission. Families in ODF villages have saved an average of INR 50,000 annually on health expenses, highlighting the economic gains of sanitation improvements. Central Government Schemes
| Phase | Duration | Estimated Outlay |
|---|---|---|
| Swachh Bharat Mission Phase I | 2014-2019 | Rs. 1,40,881 crore (US$ 19.11 billion) |
| Swachh Bharat Mission Phase II | 2020-2025 | Rs. 1,40,881 crore (US$ 19.11 billion) |
The second phase of the Swachh Bharat Mission, set to run from 2020-21 to 2024-25, has a budget of Rs. 1,40,881 crore (US$ 19.11 billion). It aims to improve sanitation infrastructure and promote comprehensive waste management in rural areas. Campaigns like Swachhata Green Leaf Rating and Swachhata Hi Central Government Schemes Sewa have mobilized millions. These efforts are crucial in achieving a clean India and open defecation free status.
Digital India Initiative
The Digital India initiative, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015, aims to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy. It focuses on digital empowerment, internet connectivity, e-governance, and digital literacy. The program seeks to bridge the digital divide and ensure access to government services electronically for all citizens.
The initiative, executed by Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL), has made significant strides in various sectors. It has facilitated the establishment of 246 BPO/ITES units across 27 States/UTs under the India BPO Promotion Scheme (IBPS) and the North East BPO Promotion Scheme (NEBPS). This has generated direct employment for over 51,584 individuals. The State of Rajasthan alone has 23,035 functional Common Services Centres (CSCs), with 18,823 at the Gram Panchayat level. Central Government Schemes
BharatNet Project
BharatNet, a key project under the Digital India initiative, aims to provide high-speed broadband connectivity to all 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats in the country. The project focuses on building robust internet infrastructure in rural areas. It ensures that even the most remote regions have access to digital services and opportunities.
The progress of BharatNet has been substantial, with the government investing heavily in the development of broadband highways and universal access to mobile connectivity. As a result, more citizens are now able to access e-governance services, participate in online platforms like MyGov, and benefit from digital initiatives in sectors such as education and healthcare. Central Government Schemes
Digital Literacy Mission
The Digital Literacy Mission, another crucial component of the Digital India initiative, aims to make at least one person in every family digitally literate. By promoting digital literacy, the mission empowers citizens to effectively utilize digital tools and services. This fosters inclusivity and equal opportunities in the digital age.
The Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA) has played a vital role in this mission. It targets to make 6 crore rural households digitally literate by March 2020. The program has been successful in imparting digital skills to millions of individuals. This enables them to access government services, participate in e-commerce, and enhance their overall quality of life.
| Initiative | Key Highlights |
|---|---|
| DigiLocker | Over 13.7 crore users, more than 562 crore documents available from 2,311 issuer organizations |
| UMANG | Offers more than 1668 e-Services and over 20,197 bill payment services |
| eSign | Over 31.08 crore e-Signs issued, with 7.01 crore issued by CDAC |
| MyGov | Over 2.76+ crore registered users participating in various activities |
| Jeevan Pramaan | Processed over 685.42 lakh Digital Life certificates since 2014 |
The Digital India initiative has not only enhanced digital infrastructure and literacy but has also paved the way for the growth of the electronics manufacturing sector. The Modified Special Incentive Package (M-SIPS) has approved 315 applications with a proposed investment of approximately Rs. 85,632 crore. The Electronic Manufacturing Clusters (EMC) scheme has approved 19 Greenfield EMCs and 3 Common Facility Centres across 15 states.
As the Digital India initiative continues to make rapid strides, it is evident that the country is well on its way to becoming a digitally empowered nation. Citizens are actively participating in the digital economy and benefiting from the transformative power of technology.
Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)
The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is a flagship financial inclusion program launched by the Government of India in August 2014. It aims to provide affordable access to bank accounts, remittances, credit, insurance, and pension facilities to the unbanked population of the country.
Under PMJDY, beneficiaries receive a basic savings bank account and a RuPay debit card with an inbuilt accident insurance cover of Rs. 1 lakh. The scheme has seen remarkable success, with over 41 crore bank accounts opened as of February 2021. This includes 60% in rural areas and 40% in urban areas. Approximately 51% of account holders are female.
The scheme offers additional benefits such as:
- Overdraft facility of up to Rs. 10,000 for eligible account holders
- Life cover of Rs. 30,000 payable on the death of the beneficiary for accounts opened between 15/08/2014 – 31/01/2015
- Accidental insurance cover increased to Rs. 2 lakhs for accounts opened after 28/08/2018
- Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT) under various Government Schemes through beneficiaries’ bank accounts
The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana has promoted financial inclusion and set records. On its inauguration day, 15 million bank accounts were opened, setting a Guinness World Record. As of August 2022, there are 30.93 crore beneficiaries in rural/semi-urban areas, with total deposits of ₹172,848.48 crore. Overall, 31.95 crore beneficiaries have 46.30 crore RuPay debit cards issued.
| Year | Number of Accounts (in crore) | Deposits (in ₹ crore) |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 12.54 | 15,670 |
| 2018 | 31.80 | 79,200 |
| 2022 | 46.25 | 172,848.48 |
Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY)
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) is a groundbreaking initiative by the Government of India. It provides comprehensive health insurance coverage to millions of eligible beneficiaries. As one of the world’s largest tax-funded insurance schemes, PM-JAY aims to ensure access to quality medical coverage. It also reduces the financial burden of hospitalization expenses on vulnerable families.
Eligibility for Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY
PM-JAY covers approximately 50 crore (500 million) beneficiaries, making it the world’s largest government-sponsored healthcare program. The scheme provides a cover of Rs. 5 lakhs per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization. This is across public and private empanelled hospitals in India. There is no cap on family size and age, ensuring that the most vulnerable sections of society can access the benefits of this health insurance scheme.
Benefits Under Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY
PM-JAY offers a wide range of benefits to its beneficiaries, including:
- Cashless treatment at empanelled public and private hospitals across India
- Coverage for over 1,900 health benefit packages (HBPs)
- Access to quality healthcare services without the worry of financial constraints
The scheme has made significant progress since its launch, with the following key statistics:
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Budget of Ayushman Bharat Yojana in 2021-22 | ₹8,088 crore (US$970 million) |
| Number of public and private hospitals empanelled nationwide | 24,432 |
| Value of treatments provided by Ayushman Bharat Yojana by May 2020 | ₹13,412 crore |
The implementation of PM-JAY has been a collaborative effort involving various stakeholders. This includes government staff and relevant experts. Efforts are being made to systematize processes and incorporate evidence-based policymaking. The establishment of the Health Financing and Technology Assessment unit is part of this effort. As the scheme continues to grow, it holds the promise of transforming healthcare access and affordability for millions of Indians.
Central Government Schemes for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare
The Indian government has launched various initiatives to support farmers and promote sustainable agriculture. These schemes aim to enhance crop insurance coverage, improve access to affordable agricultural credit, and ensure overall farmer welfare. Let’s explore two key programs: the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme.
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
PMFBY is a comprehensive crop insurance scheme designed to protect farmers against financial losses due to crop failures. Since its launch in 2016-17, the program has insured 5,549.40 lakh farmer applications, with claims amounting to Rs. 150,589.10 crore. This robust coverage ensures that farmers receive the necessary support during challenging times, promoting their overall welfare.
Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme
The KCC scheme facilitates timely access to affordable agricultural credit for farmers. As of January 5, 2024, an impressive 465.42 lakh new KCC applications have been sanctioned, with a total credit limit of Rs. 5,69,974 crore under the Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS). This initiative enables farmers to invest in quality inputs and modern farming practices, ultimately boosting productivity and income.
| Scheme | Key Statistics (as of 2024) |
|---|---|
| Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) | 5,549.40 lakh farmer applications insured; Rs. 150,589.10 crore paid as claims |
| Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme | 465.42 lakh new KCC applications sanctioned; Rs. 5,69,974 crore credit limit |
| Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) | Rs. 33,209 crores sanctioned for 44,912 projects |
| Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) | 7,774 FPOs registered |
In addition to PMFBY and KCC, the government has introduced several other initiatives to bolster the agriculture sector. These include the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), with Rs. 33,209 crores sanctioned for 44,912 projects, and the promotion of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), with 7,774 FPOs registered as of December 31, 2023. By focusing on crop insurance, agricultural credit, and comprehensive farmer welfare measures, the government aims to create a resilient and prosperous agricultural ecosystem in India.
National Social Assistance Program (NSAP)
The National Social Assistance Program (NSAP) was launched on 15th August 1995. It is a key social assistance initiative by the Government of India. The program offers financial support to the elderly, widows, and persons with disabilities through pension schemes. Funded entirely by the Central Government, it is administered by the Ministry of Rural Development.
The NSAP includes five main schemes:
- Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS)
- Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS)
- Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS)
- National Family Benefit Scheme (NFBS)
- Annapurna Scheme
Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS)
The Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme provides vital old age support to those aged 60 and above. Beneficiaries between 60-79 years get Rs.200 monthly. Those 80 and above receive Rs.500 monthly.
Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS)
The Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme offers crucial widow welfare. It provides a monthly pension of Rs.300 to widows aged 40 and above. The pension increases to Rs.500 for those 80 or above.
Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS)
The Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme provides disability benefits to individuals with severe or multiple disabilities aged 18 and above. Beneficiaries receive Rs.300 monthly. This increases to Rs.500 for those 80 or above.
| Scheme | Beneficiaries | Monthly Pension (Rs.) |
|---|---|---|
| IGNOAPS | 60-79 years | 200 |
| IGNOAPS | 80+ years | 500 |
| IGNWPS | 40+ years | 300 |
| IGNWPS | 80+ years | 500 |
| IGNDPS | 18+ years | 300 |
| IGNDPS | 80+ years | 500 |
Since its launch, the NSAP has grown significantly. It has seen increased financial allocations and expanded coverage. The program remains crucial in providing social security and financial assistance to vulnerable groups. It ensures their well-being and dignity.
Conclusion
The Central Government of India has launched a broad range of government initiatives to boost social welfare, economic growth, and inclusive development. These efforts span key sectors like agriculture, health, education, skill development, housing, and financial inclusion. They aim to improve the lives of all citizens by focusing on the most vulnerable groups.
Initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) and the Swachh Bharat Mission have made substantial impacts. The PMJDY is a massive financial inclusion program, while the Swachh Bharat Mission has built millions of toilets. Other schemes, such as Make in India, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, and the Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana, support local manufacturing, gender equality, and rural development.
The government has also enhanced worker welfare through labor law amendments. These changes include higher bonus payment eligibility, increased gratuity ceilings, and extended maternity leave. These steps reflect a commitment to strengthening worker rights and social security.
Despite ongoing challenges like poverty, inequality, and limited access to basic services, the success of these schemes hinges on their effective implementation and monitoring. Ensuring that benefits reach the right people and promoting transparency and accountability are key. These efforts are crucial for building a more inclusive and prosperous India.
FAQ
What is the PM-KISAN scheme?
PM-KISAN is a Central Government initiative. It offers financial support of Rs. 6,000 annually to eligible farmers. This amount is directly credited to their bank accounts in three equal installments.
Who is eligible for the MGNREGA scheme?
MGNREGA targets rural areas to enhance livelihood security. It guarantees at least 100 days of wage employment in a financial year. This is for every household whose adult members are willing to perform unskilled manual work.
What are the two components of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)?
PMAY has two main components. PMAY-G aims to provide pucca houses with basic amenities to homeless and dilapidated houses in rural areas. PMAY-U focuses on housing for the urban poor.
What is the objective of the Skill India Mission?
The Skill India Mission aims to train over 40 crore people in various skills by 2022. It includes initiatives like Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS).
What is the goal of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan?
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan is a nationwide campaign. It aims to eliminate open defecation and improve solid waste management. The goal is to achieve an “open-defecation free” (ODF) India by October 2, 2019.
What are the key projects under the Digital India initiative?
BharatNet is a key project under Digital India. It aims to provide high-speed broadband connectivity to all 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats. The Digital Literacy Mission is another key project. It aims to make at least one person in every family digitally literate.
What benefits does the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) provide?
PMJDY offers unbanked persons a basic savings bank account. It also provides a RuPay Debit card with inbuilt accident insurance cover of Rs. 1 lakh. This promotes financial inclusion.
What is the coverage provided under the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY)?
PM-JAY offers a cover of Rs. 5 lakhs per family per year. This is for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization across public and private empanelled hospitals in India. It covers approximately 50 crore beneficiaries.
What are some Central Government schemes for agriculture and farmers’ welfare?
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is a crop insurance scheme. The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme provides farmers with timely access to affordable credit. These are important schemes for agriculture and farmers’ welfare.
What are the pension schemes under the National Social Assistance Program (NSAP)?
NSAP includes three pension schemes. The Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS) supports the elderly. The Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS) supports widows. The Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS) supports persons with disabilities. These schemes provide financial assistance.