Government Schemes & Programs Current Affairs - 2026-07-13

Background: The government has been focusing on bridging the digital divide in rural India through various skill development programs. Current Context: On July 12, 2026, the Ministry of Skill Development launched the 'PM-Vikas' (Viksit Bharat Kaushal) initiative. This program aims to provide advanced digital literacy and coding skills to 1 million rural youth by 2027. Impact: This initiative is expected to enhance employability in the tech sector for rural populations, reducing migration to urban centers and fostering local entrepreneurship through digital tools and e-commerce integration.

Background: The Namo Drone Didi scheme was introduced to empower women in self-help groups (SHGs) by training them as drone pilots for agricultural use. Current Context: As of July 13, 2026, the government has announced the expansion of the scheme to include 50,000 additional SHGs across the country. The initiative provides subsidized drones for pesticide spraying and crop monitoring. Impact: This expansion will significantly modernize agricultural practices, reduce labor costs for farmers, and provide sustainable income opportunities for rural women, strengthening the rural economy and promoting precision farming.