Government Schemes & Programs Current Affairs - 2026-05-08

Background: The government has identified a digital divide affecting rural women's access to financial services. Current Context: On May 7, 2026, the Ministry of Women and Child Development launched the 'Nari Shakti Digital Literacy' initiative. It aims to train 5 million women in digital financial transactions and e-governance services. Impact: This program will enhance financial inclusion, reduce dependency on intermediaries, and empower women to access government welfare benefits directly through mobile applications, fostering a more transparent and efficient delivery mechanism for rural development.

Background: The PM-Vikas (Vishwakarma Kaushal Samman) scheme was designed to support traditional artisans and craftspeople. Current Context: As of May 8, 2026, the Ministry of MSME has expanded the scheme to integrate beneficiaries with major e-commerce platforms. This update provides artisans with digital storefronts and logistics support. Impact: By bridging the gap between local craftsmanship and global markets, the expansion aims to increase the income of traditional artisans by 30%. It ensures better price discovery and preserves India's cultural heritage by making traditional crafts economically viable for the younger generation.