Schemes in News for UPSC 2026: Latest Government Schemes, Key Features & Ministry-Wise Notes

The government's pursuit of the "Viksit Bharat 2047" roadmap has led to the recent launch of several high-impact initiatives and the strategic overhaul of existing flagship programs. These Schemes in News for UPSC 2026 reflect a shift toward saturation-based delivery, digital integration, and domestic manufacturing self-reliance. 

From the employment-focused PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana to the technology-driven REPM Scheme, these initiatives represent the core of India's current developmental agenda. A precise understanding of their implementing ministries, updated 2026 targets, and specific funding structures is fundamental to mastering the contemporary governance and social justice components of the civil services syllabus.

Schemes in News for UPSC 2026 Overview

Understanding recently launched or revised government schemes is important for competitive exams like UPSC, as they frequently feature in question papers. Here, we outlined critical schemes across various ministries, focusing on their core objectives, key features, and implementation details to aid in effective memorization and preparation.

Ministry of Commerce and Industry

The Ministry has shifted its focus toward easing import hurdles for exporters and creating a more robust safety net for early-stage entrepreneurs.

Diamond Imprest Authorisation Scheme

This scheme promotes value addition to raw diamonds imported into India for finishing and re-export. Launched by the Department of Commerce under the Foreign Trade Policy 2023, it became active from April 2025. It allows duty-free import of natural cut and polished diamonds (less than 1/4 carat or 25 cents), requiring exporters to add at least 10% value. Eligibility includes a Two-Star or higher rating and annual exports of at least $15 million. Lab-grown diamonds are excluded.

Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups

Managed by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, this scheme expands the Startup India Initiative (January 16, 2016) by offering collateral-free loan facilities to innovative startups. The maximum loan limit increased from ₹1 Crore to ₹5 Crore. Collateral-free coverage is 85% for loans up to ₹10 Crore, and 75% for loans exceeding ₹10 Crore.

Schemes to Boost MSME Export

The Export Promotion Mission, a flagship program with a budget of ₹25,60 Crore (FY 2025-26 to FY 2030-31), is a joint effort by the Commerce, MSME, and Finance Ministries. It aims to boost MSME exports, create jobs, and reduce import dependency.

1. Interest Subvention on Export Credit Scheme: Provides a 2.75% interest subvention on pre and post-shipment Rupee export credit. It covers products with value exceeding 75% of the Indian Tariff Line and has an annual cap of ₹50 Lakh per exporter for FY 2025-26.

2. Collateral Support for Export Credit Scheme: Offers collateral-free loan access for MSMEs, with coverage up to 85% for Micro and Small Exporters and 65% for Medium Exporters. The exposure cap is ₹10 Crore per exporter. The Credit Guarantee Fund Trust (CGFT) for MSMEs plays a key role.

Ministry of Education

The Ministry of Education has focused its recent efforts on harmonizing traditional Indian knowledge with modern technical research, ensuring that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 reaches the grassroots level. This shift emphasizes the creation of a "Learning Ecosystem" that prepares students for global leadership roles while remaining rooted in Indian heritage.

PM Yuva 3.0

Managed by the Ministry of Education's Department of Higher Education, this Prime Minister Scheme for Mentoring Young Authors trains and promotes young writers (under 30 years). It supports writing in 22 Indian languages plus English (23 total). 50 authors are selected via contest and mentored by the National Book Trust (NBT) India.

MERITE Scheme

The Multidisciplinary Education and Research Improvement in Technical Education (MERITE) is a Central Sector Scheme, meaning 100% Central Government funding. 

With ₹4200 Crore (50% Central, 50% World Bank loan) for FY 2025-26 to 2029-30, it empowers 7.5 lakh technical students in Government Engineering and Polytechnic Colleges, aligning with NEP 2020.

PM-SHRI Scheme

The Prime Schools for Rsing  India (PM-SHRI), a Centrally Sponsored Scheme launched in 2022, upgrades over 14,000 existing schools into model institutions. Funding shares vary (e.g., 60:40 Centre:State for General States, 90:10 for NE/Himalayan/J&K). 

Only schools with a U-DISE+ code are eligible (*Memory Tip: U-DISE+ code is a unique school identifier). Selection involves MoU, shortlisting, physical verification, and expert committee approval, targeting two schools per block.

Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology

In the current digital era, MeitY has shifted its focus toward the dual goals of "Digital Sovereignty" and "Cyber Resilience." The ministry is actively deploying advanced AI and biometric frameworks to protect India's digital public infrastructure from emerging technological threats like deepfakes and sophisticated identity theft

SITA Scheme

The Scheme for Innovation and Technology Association with Aadhaar (SITA), by UIDAI under MeitY, enhances Aadhaar security by combating digital frauds like deepfakes, spoofing, and presentation attacks. It focuses on Face Liveness Detection, Presentation Attack Detection, and Contactless Fingerprint Authentication.

Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare

The Ministry is currently transforming traditional farming into a data-driven enterprise through the Digital Agriculture Mission. By integrating satellite imaging and biometric IDs, the focus has shifted toward precise, "leak-proof" delivery of subsidies and credit.

Kisan Pehchan Patra (Farmer ID)

This unique Aadhaar-linked digital identity, connected to State Land Records, aims to eliminate false beneficiaries and ensure scheme benefits reach real farmers. It contains demographics, crop details, and land ownership, being part of the Digital Agriculture Mission.

Crop Insurance Schemes

Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and Restructured Weather-Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS) continue until FY 2025-26.

• PMFBY (2016) provides insurance coverage against non-preventable natural risks. Farmer premiums are 2% for Kharif, 1.5% for Rabi food/oilseeds, and 5% for commercial/horticultural crops.

• RWBCIS (2016, Ministry of Agriculture) compensates farmers for losses due to weather-triggered impacts. This scheme focuses on weather events, distinct from PMFBY's traditional yield-based insurance.

PM Dhana Dhanya Krishi Yojana

This new scheme, exclusively for agriculture and allied sectors, runs for 6 years from FY 2025-26 with ₹24,000 Crore. It targets 100 aspirational districts (low productivity, cropping intensity, credit accessibility) and converges 36 existing schemes across 11 central departments. 

Implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare, it aims to boost productivity, promote crop diversification, and ensure sustainable agriculture. This is the first scheme exclusively for agriculture and allied sectors.

Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA Scheme)

Launched in 2018 and extended until March 31, 2026, this Central Sector Scheme provides price support and proper procurement for farmers, managed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare. It is implemented via NAFED and NCCF.

• Market Intervention Scheme (MIS): Addresses perishable crops not covered under MSP, such as Potatoes, Onions, and Tomatoes (POT/TOP). Triggered when prices fall 10% or more, it receives 50% Central support for General States and 75% for North Eastern States. Procurement limit is 25%.

CROPIC Scheme

Implemented under PMFBY, CROPIC ensures real-time observation of crops for insurance, using AI models to calculate losses and facilitate farmer compensation. Funding comes from the Fund for Innovation and Technology (FIAT) under PMFBY (₹825 Cr).

Ministry of Ayush

The Ministry of Ayush is actively working to modernize the traditional medicine sector by focusing on "Human Capital" and "Evidence-Based Research." By enhancing the service delivery mindset of its officials and providing research platforms for students, the ministry ensures that Ayurveda and other traditional systems are globally competitive and scientifically validated.

Rashtriya Karmayogi Jan Seva Program

Under the Ministry of Ayush, this program, launched by the Capacity Building Commission, instills a service-oriented mindset in public servants, especially traditional medicine graduates.

SPARK 4.0

By Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), SPARK 4.0 prepares BAMS students for contemporary Ayurveda challenges, fostering research interest and analytical skills.

Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying

The Ministry is driving a "White Revolution 2.0" by focusing on the digital formalization of the livestock economy and the preservation of indigenous breeds. 

Current policies prioritize building a high-tech infrastructure that ensures every animal is traceable and every farmer is linked to a national value chain.

Revised National Program for Dairy Development (NPDD)

This Central Sector Scheme (100% Central Government funding), with ₹2790 Crore for 2022-2026, is managed by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying. It aims to modernize and expand dairy infrastructure, improving milk collection, processing, and storage.

Cabinet-Approved Revised Rashtriya Gokul Mission

Launched in 2014, this mission focuses on conservation and enhancement of indigenous bovine breeds and improving milk productivity via Artificial Insemination (AI). With an allocation of ₹3400 Crore, it supports Heifer Rearing Centers (up to 35% financial aid) and offers 3% interest subvention on loans for high genetic merit IVF heifers.

National Camel Sustainability Initiative

This initiative by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying addresses the 75% decline in India's camel population. It promotes camel culture, innovation, and conservation, especially in Rajasthan and Gujarat.

National Digital Livestock Mission (NDLM)

A Digital India initiative by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, NDLM creates a national livestock database. Each registered animal receives a Pashu Aadhaar (a unique 12-digit barcoded ear tag), recording its details. The mission supports targeted vaccination programs.

Ministry of Finance

The Ministry serves as the primary architect of India’s economic stability, focusing on financial inclusion and capital accessibility for the "unbanked" segments of the population.

Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY)

Launched in 2015, PMMY is a flagship Central Sector Scheme (100% Central Government funding) by the Department of Financial Services. It provides collateral-free micro-credit to non-corporate and non-farm MSMEs. Loan categories are: Shishu (up to ₹50,000), Kishor (₹50,001 to ₹5 lakh), Tarun (₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh), and Tarun Plus (₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh).

Credit Guarantee Scheme for Exporters

Under the Ministry of Finance, this scheme offers a 100% credit guarantee for collateral-free capital to MSMEs and non-MSMEs. With ₹20,000 Crore, it aims to boost exports to $1 trillion, implemented by the Department of Financial Services.

Ministry of Heavy Industries

The Ministry is accelerating India’s transition to green mobility by incentivizing high-tech manufacturing and establishing a robust domestic supply chain for electric vehicles.

Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI)

Launched in 2024 by the Ministry of Heavy Industries, this scheme aims to boost EV manufacturing, develop India as an EV export hub, and achieve Net Zero emissions by 2070. It offers a 50% reduction in customs duty for imported electric four-wheelers.

PM e-DRIVE Scheme

The Prime Minister Electric Drive Revolution Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM e-DRIVE) scheme, approved in September 2024 by the **Ministry of Heavy Industries, promotes electric mobility with ₹1,900 Crore. 

Its duration is extended to March 31, 2028, for e-trucks, e-buses, and testing agencies. Objectives include developing charging infrastructure and a domestic EV manufacturing ecosystem.

Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnets (REPM)

Approved under the Ministry of Heavy Industries, this scheme (launching December 2025, ₹7,280 Crore) aims to locally produce Sintered REPMs like NdFeB. The sintering process creates extremely strong magnets. It seeks to reduce 100% import dependence on China and achieve self-reliance, targeting 6,000 metric tons per annum over 7 years.

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The Ministry is expanding India’s healthcare net to achieve "Universal Health Coverage" by significantly reducing out-of-pocket expenditures for the most vulnerable sections of society.

Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY)

Launched in September 2018, PM-JAY is the world's largest health assurance scheme, covering 10.74 crore families (bottom 40% of Indian population). It provides ₹5 lakh per family per year for universal health coverage.

Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY)

Launched in 2006 by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, PMSSY aims to bridge regional gaps in healthcare by establishing AIIMS institutions (22 new ones approved) and upgrading existing Government Medical Colleges. This will create approximately 5,000 new PG seats and 523 new MBBS (UG) seats.

Ministry of Jal Shakti

The Ministry is leading the charge toward water security and rural sanitation through high-impact missions focused on sustainable resource management. Its current strategy emphasizes not just the creation of infrastructure, but the long-term "Source Sustainability" and community-led maintenance of water assets.

Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM)

Launched in 2019, JJM, under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, aims to provide Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) to every rural household (Har Ghar Jal) by 2028, ensuring 55 liters per capita per day of safe drinking water. A Centrally Sponsored Scheme, it mandates community involvement and 50% women participation in Village Water and Sanitation Committees (Pani Samitis).

Gobar-Dhan Scheme

The Galvanising Organic Bio Agro Resource Dhan (Gobar-Dhan) scheme (2018, Swachh Bharat Mission, Ministry of Jal Shakti) promotes Waste to Wealth by using biowaste to produce Compressed Biogas (CBG) and bio-slurry. It improves rural livelihoods and reduces GHG emissions.

Ministry of MSME

The Ministry of MSME focuses on creating a "Global Value Chain" for small industries by promoting modernization, innovation, and rural industrialization. Current 2026 policies emphasize scaling micro-units into sustainable medium enterprises through advanced incubation and financial handholding.

ASPIRE Scheme

A Scheme for Promotion of Innovation, Rural Industry, and Entrepreneurship (ASPIRE), launched in 2015 by the Ministry of MSME, boosts the rural economy through employment and entrepreneurship. 

It focuses on agriculture-based product refinement, rural job creation, and skill development. Key components include Livelihood Business Incubators (LBIs) and Technology-Based Incubators (TBIs), with financial support from a Fund of Funds via SIDBI.

Ministry of Rural Development

The Ministry is pivoting from mere poverty alleviation to high-value "Livelihood Transformation" by leveraging the vast network of Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Its 2026 strategy focuses on "Saturation and Scale," ensuring that rural women move beyond subsistence and become active contributors to the national GDP.

Lakhpati Didi Scheme

Launched in 2023, this scheme targets women empowerment by enabling 2 Crore women to achieve a minimum annual income of ₹1 lakh. Implemented via Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM), it provides entrepreneurial skills.

Bima Sakhi Yojana

An initiative by the Ministry of Rural Development and LIC, this scheme trains and employs 2 Crore rural women (18-70 years) as 'Bima Sakhis' to sell insurance products at the Gram Panchayat level, contributing to "Insurance for All by 2047".

Ministry of Road Transport and Highways

The Ministry is revolutionizing road safety by moving beyond traditional infrastructure to a "Life-First" digital ecosystem that prioritizes immediate medical intervention for accident victims.

Cashless Treatment Scheme for Road Accident Victims

Launched in 2025, this scheme by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways provides cashless treatment to any road accident victim up to ₹1.5 lakh for up to 7 days. It is crucial during the "Golden Hour" (first hour after injury, as per Motor Vehicles Act, 1988).

Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship

The Ministry is reimagining India's vocational landscape by shifting from basic certificate-based training to high-impact "Employability Transformation" and "Women-led Entrepreneurship." Its 2026 strategy focuses on upgrading legacy institutions and creating specialized pipelines for first-generation female entrepreneurs to thrive in competitive markets.

Swavalambini Scheme

Implemented by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and NITI Aayog, this scheme focuses on women empowerment through entrepreneurial skills in Assam, Meghalaya, and Mizoram, encouraging women to become job creators.

PM-SETU Yojana

The Prime Minister Skillings and Employability Transformation Upgradation (PM-SETU) Yojana, a Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, aims to upgrade 1,000 Government ITIs using a Hub and Spoke Model. It promotes demand-driven courses and outcome-based training.

Ministry of Labour and Employment

The Ministry has shifted its role from a traditional regulator to a proactive "Employment Facilitator," focusing on the formalization of the workforce and the creation of a universal social security net. Its 2026 strategy is anchored by the Shram Shakti Niti 2025, which integrates digital identities with lifelong social protection for both formal and gig workers

Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan Yojana (PMSYM)

This Voluntary and Contributory Pension Scheme for the unorganized sector, administered by the Ministry of Labour and Employment as a Central Sector Scheme, provides ₹3,000 per month pension after age 60. Eligible workers (age 18-40, income <₹15,000) contribute, matched by the Central Government. LIC manages the fund.

Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana

Launched on August 15, 2025, by the Ministry of Labour and Employment, this flagship employment generation program targets 3.5 Crore jobs by July 31, 2027, focusing on the manufacturing sector. 

Employees (first-time, EPFO-registered, <₹15,000 monthly salary) receive additional support in two installments via DBT. Employers get incentives per new hire based on wage slabs (e.g., ₹1,000 for <₹10,000; ₹3,000 for ₹20,000-₹1 lakh).

Ministry of New and Renewable Energy

The Ministry is spearheading India's transition toward becoming a "Global Green Hydrogen Hub" while simultaneously surpassing major global players in renewable energy installation.

Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme of India (GHCI)

Implemented by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, this scheme promotes Green Hydrogen production (from water electrolysis using renewable sources electricity) and local consumption. It certifies domestic producers, but not exclusive exporters.

Ministry of Science & Technology

DEEP TECH RESEARCH & INNOVATION (DRI) Scheme

Approved with ₹1 lakh Crore, the DRI Scheme by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) incentivizes private R&D in Sunrise Domains (e.g., electronics, semiconductors) and for Strategic & Economic Security. It aims to upscale research, promote innovation, and achieve higher Technology Readiness Levels.

Ministry of Communication

SANCHAR MITRA Scheme

Launched by the Department of Telecommunication, this scheme addresses the Digital Divide in rural areas by educating people on Telecommunication, Cyber Security, Digital Frauds, and Mobile Usage. Selected students are trained as 'Digital Ambassadors' by the National Communication Academy Technology (NCAT).

BHARAT 6G Mission (B6GM)

Organized by the Union Ministry of Communication, B6GM aims to launch 6G by 2030. 6G technology promises high speeds and low latency, supporting AI, Holographic Communication, Metaverse, and Robotics. The Bharat 6G Alliance works to position India as a 6G hub.

Ministry of Power

ADITI Scheme

The Advancing Development of Innovative Technologies for Indian Transition (ADITI) scheme, by the Ministry of Power and BEE, promotes Clean Energy and Energy Efficient Technologies with ₹1000 Crore over ~2 years. It includes Interest Subvention and Handholding Support, aiming to reduce import dependency and carbon emissions.

Ministry of Coal

RECLAIM - Community Engagement and Development Framework

Launched by the Ministry of Coal, RECLAIM addresses abandoned mine sites by reclaiming barren land through community-led initiatives. The acronym RECLAIM stands for: Reach out, Envision, Co-design, Localize, Act, Integrate, Maintain.

Ministry of Textiles

PM MITRA Park Scheme (PM Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel)

Launched in 2021 by the Ministry of Textiles, this scheme establishes Integrated Large Scale Modern Industrial Parks for the textile sector. Following the "5F Formula" (Farm to Fibre, Fibre to Factory, Factory to Fashion, Fashion to Foreign), it aims to reduce Logistics Costs. The 6-year scheme involves a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) and supports both Greenfield and Brownfield projects.

TexRamps Scheme (Textile Focused Research, Assessment, Monitoring, Planning and Startup Scheme)

A Central Sector Scheme under the Ministry of Textile, TexRamps (outlay ₹305 Crore until 2025-26) promotes Research, Innovation, and Competitiveness in the textile sector. It aims to enhance global market presence and 'future-proof' the sector, with a sunset clause tied to the 16th Finance Commission.

Ministry of Women and Child Development

Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY)

Launched in 2017 by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, PMMVY is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme providing financial assistance to pregnant and lactating women in the unorganized sector. For the first child, ₹5000 is given; for the second child, ₹6000 is provided only if the child is a girl.

Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas

Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)

A flagship scheme of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, launched in 2016, PMUY provides free LPG connections and a ₹300 subsidy per cylinder (up to 12/year) to women from Below Poverty Line (BPL) families. It addresses health risks from traditional fuels and identifies beneficiaries from SECC 2011 or specific categories.