Government schemes play a pivotal role in shaping a nation’s socio-economic progress. They aim to uplift different sections of society, boost infrastructure, enhance digital transformation, and promote sustainability. Over the years, India has launched several flagship schemes addressing healthcare, agriculture, employment, technology, and women empowerment.
In 2024-25, the government introduced new initiatives and strengthened existing programs to accelerate India's development. Here’s a detailed look at the top government schemes in current affairs that are making an impact.
1. PM Vishwakarma Yojana – Boosting Traditional Artisans
- Launch Date: September 17, 2023
- Objective: To support traditional artisans and craftsmen
- Key Features:
- ₹3 lakh collateral-free loans at a subsidized interest rate
- Free skill training and modern toolkits
- Branding, marketing, and e-commerce integration
This scheme plays a crucial role in preserving India’s rich cultural heritage while helping artisans sustain their livelihood.
2. PM Suryodaya Yojana – Promoting Solar Energy
- Announced: January 2024
- Objective: To promote solar power for households
- Key Features:
- Rooftop solar installations for one crore homes
- Reduced electricity bills by switching to solar energy
- Encourages renewable energy adoption
This scheme aligns with India’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 and reducing dependency on fossil fuels.
3. Namo Drone Didi Scheme – Empowering Women in Agriculture
- Announced: Budget 2024
- Objective: To provide women with advanced technology in farming
- Key Features:
- Subsidized drones for Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
- Training programs on drone operation
- Enhances precision farming for better crop yield
This initiative strengthens women’s role in agriculture while modernizing farming practices.
4. Ayushman Bhav Campaign – Universal Healthcare for All
- Launch Date: September 2023
- Objective: Expanding healthcare accessibility
- Key Features:
- Strengthening Ayushman Bharat health coverage
- Free medical check-ups and treatments
- Special focus on rural healthcare
This initiative ensures that quality healthcare services reach the last mile, particularly rural and marginalized populations.
5. PM Gatishakti Scheme – Infrastructure & Logistics Development
- Announced: 2021 (Continued focus in 2024-25)
- Objective: To develop an integrated infrastructure network
- Key Features:
- Multi-modal connectivity across roads, railways, ports, and airports
- Reduced logistics costs and enhanced supply chain efficiency
- Promotes industrial and economic growth
This scheme plays a key role in making India a global manufacturing hub by improving infrastructure and trade efficiency.
6. Lakhpati Didi Scheme – Women Empowerment Through Livelihood
- Expanded: 2024
- Objective: To enable rural women to earn ₹1 lakh per year
- Key Features:
- Skill training in handicrafts, tailoring, and food processing
- Micro-financing support to start businesses
- Strengthening women’s entrepreneurship in rural India
This initiative aligns with the government’s vision of women-led development and financial independence.
7. Digital India FutureLABS – Boosting AI & Tech Innovation
- Announced: Budget 2024
- Objective: To promote AI, cybersecurity, and digital transformation
- Key Features:
- Establishment of AI and digital research labs
- Funding for tech startups and innovations
- Boosting blockchain and cybersecurity research
With AI shaping the future, this scheme positions India as a global leader in digital technology.
8. PM Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) – Financial Support to Farmers
- Launch Date: December 2018 (Continuing in 2024-25)
- Objective: To provide direct income support to farmers
- Key Features:
- ₹6,000 annually transferred to farmers’ bank accounts
- Helps farmers with agricultural expenses
- Covers small and marginal farmers
This scheme ensures financial stability for farmers and encourages sustainable farming practices.
9. Jal Jeevan Mission – Providing Tap Water to Every Household
- Launch Date: 2019 (Continuing in 2024)
- Objective: To ensure safe drinking water for all rural households
- Key Features:
- Provides tap water connections to households
- Focus on water conservation and rainwater harvesting
- Special attention to drought-prone areas
This scheme is critical in addressing India’s water crisis and ensuring sustainable water management.
10. PM Mudra Yojana – Funding Small Businesses
- Launch Date: 2015 (Updated in 2024)
- Objective: To provide loans to small and micro businesses
- Key Features:
- Loans up to ₹10 lakh without collateral
- Encourages startups and self-employment
- Special focus on women entrepreneurs
Since its launch, this scheme has transformed millions of small businesses, contributing to job creation.
11. Skill India Mission – Upskilling India’s Workforce
- Launch Date: 2015 (Expanded in 2024)
- Objective: To equip youth with industry-relevant skills
- Key Features:
- Vocational training in various sectors
- Placement support for skilled individuals
- Promotes entrepreneurship and employment
This initiative is crucial in addressing India’s unemployment challenge and making the workforce future-ready.
12. Startup India Scheme – Boosting Entrepreneurship
- Launch Date: 2016 (Continuing in 2024)
- Objective: To foster innovation and entrepreneurship
- Key Features:
- Tax benefits and funding support for startups
- Simplified regulatory compliance
- Boosts job creation and economic growth
This initiative has placed India among the top startup ecosystems globally.
13. PM Awas Yojana (Urban & Rural) – Affordable Housing for All
- Launch Date: 2015 (Extended till 2024)
- Objective: To provide affordable housing to low-income groups
- Key Features:
- Subsidized housing loans
- Grants for constructing pucca houses
- Covers urban slums and rural households
This scheme is essential in achieving the vision of “Housing for All” by ensuring dignified living conditions.
14. National Green Hydrogen Mission – Leading the Clean Energy Revolution
- Launch Date: 2023
- Objective: To make India a global hub for green hydrogen
- Key Features:
- Investment of ₹19,744 crore in hydrogen production
- Reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean energy
- Supports hydrogen-based industries and research
This initiative is a big step toward reducing dependence on fossil fuels and achieving energy security.
Conclusion
These government schemes reflect India’s commitment to economic growth, digital transformation, environmental sustainability, and social welfare. From financial inclusion and women empowerment to infrastructure development and AI innovation, these initiatives are shaping the country’s future.
By staying informed about these schemes, individuals and businesses can benefit from various financial aids, employment opportunities, and sustainable development programs.