Government Schemes & Programs Current Affairs - 2026-09-17

Background: Launched in 2023, the PM Vishwakarma scheme aims to support traditional artisans and craftspeople. Current Context: As of September 2026, the Ministry of MSME has announced the inclusion of five new trade categories to broaden the scheme's reach. This update focuses on integrating digital literacy and modern toolkits for these artisans. Impact: This expansion is expected to benefit over 5 lakh additional beneficiaries, enhancing their market access and income levels by providing them with advanced training and financial support for business scaling.

Background: The Namo Drone Didi scheme was initiated to empower women in rural areas through drone technology for agricultural purposes. Current Context: In mid-September 2026, the government introduced a new subsidy structure for drone maintenance and pilot certification for women self-help groups (SHGs). This initiative aims to streamline the deployment of drones for pesticide spraying and crop monitoring. Impact: By reducing the financial burden on SHGs, the scheme will accelerate the adoption of precision farming, leading to higher crop yields and improved economic independence for rural women.