Government Schemes & Programs Current Affairs - 2026-04-23

Background: The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme was launched on February 24, 2019, to provide income support to all landholding farmer families in the country. The scheme aims to supplement their financial needs for agricultural and allied activities as well as domestic needs. Current Context: The government continues to disburse the 17th installment of the PM-KISAN scheme, providing ₹2,000 to eligible farmer families. This direct benefit transfer ensures timely financial aid, crucial for agricultural operations and farmer welfare. Impact: The scheme significantly boosts the financial stability of small and marginal farmers, enabling them to invest in inputs, manage crop cycles, and improve their livelihoods. It also contributes to the rural economy by increasing purchasing power.

Background: The National Health Mission (NHM) was launched in 2013, subsuming the National Rural Health Mission and the National Urban Health Mission. It aims to provide accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare to all citizens, with a focus on vulnerable populations. Current Context: NHM continues to strengthen primary healthcare infrastructure, including sub-centres, Primary Health Centres (PHCs), and Community Health Centres (CHCs). Recent initiatives focus on improving maternal and child health services, disease surveillance, and the integration of AYUSH systems. Impact: NHM has led to a significant reduction in maternal and infant mortality rates, improved immunization coverage, and increased access to essential healthcare services, particularly in rural and underserved areas. It plays a vital role in achieving Universal Health Coverage.

Background: The Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) was launched in April 2015 to provide loans up to ₹10 lakh to non-corporate, non-farm small and micro enterprises. The loans are provided by banks, Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), and Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs). Current Context: PMMY continues to facilitate access to formal credit for aspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses. The scheme categorizes loans into 'Shishu' (up to ₹50,000), 'Kishor' (₹50,001 to ₹5 lakh), and 'Tarun' (₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh), catering to different stages of business growth. Impact: The scheme has been instrumental in generating employment, promoting entrepreneurship, and fostering financial inclusion by providing capital to those who previously lacked access to formal banking channels. It supports the growth of the MSME sector, a key driver of India's economy.

Background: The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) was enacted in 2005 to provide at least 100 days of guaranteed wage employment in a financial year to every rural household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work. Current Context: The government continues to allocate funds and monitor the implementation of MGNREGA to ensure that rural households have access to employment opportunities, especially during lean agricultural seasons. Focus remains on timely wage payments and the completion of productive community assets. Impact: MGNREGA has been a crucial safety net for rural communities, enhancing livelihood security, reducing distress migration, and empowering marginalized sections of society. It also contributes to rural infrastructure development through the creation of durable assets like roads, water conservation structures, and sanitation facilities.