2 min read
01 March 2026

Government schemes in India are designed to support the country's development by addressing both social and economic challenges. These initiatives aim to provide essential services and uplift marginalised groups, improve living standards, and promote financial inclusion, health, education, and employment opportunities.

The importance of these schemes lies in their impact on the daily lives of citizens, especially those in rural and underprivileged communities. Understanding these schemes not only helps people take advantage of them but also encourages active participation in the nation’s growth story.

On 1 February 2021, during the Union Budget presentation, several key announcements were made, including the Aatmanirbhar Bharat package worth Rs. 27.1 lakh crore to support recovery from the COVID-19 crisis. Earlier, in 2020, a relief package of Rs. 1.70 lakh crore under the PM Garib Kalyan Yojana was launched to tackle financial hardships caused by the pandemic.

This article covers important government schemes implemented in India, offering a summary of each programme’s objective and benefit. Whether you're preparing for exams or simply wish to stay informed, these details will help you better understand their significance.

Several recent government schemes focus on social security, financial inclusion, and skill development. These include the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-Dhan Yojana (PM-SYM) for old-age protection, the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Yojana (PMJJBY) and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) for life and accident insurance, and the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) for skill development. Additionally, the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY 2.0) provides incentives for the second child, particularly if it's a girl.

Objectives of government schemes in India

The main objective of state or the centre in implementing these schemes is the welfare of Indian citizens. However, the aim of a specific scheme differs based on the governing body. Since centrally-sponsored schemes are generally put into effect by the respective state, the objectives will align with the state's 5-year plan. Similarly, with central schemes, the nation's goals are addressed, and they may give rise to multiple sub-schemes based on the scope.

To know the true objective of any given scheme, you'll have to conduct your own research by visiting official government portals. The mission statement should give you a clear picture of what the scheme hopes to achieve.

List of latest government schemes in India 2026

While there are many schemes in motion at present, take a look at the top 10 most prominent schemes and their objectives, so you can identify the Indian government schemes that you can benefit from.

#

Government scheme name

Launch date

Launch / Implementation date and key features

1

Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY)

23 September 2018

Universal senior cover: Expanded in 2025-26 to include all citizens aged 70+; Rs. 5 lakh annual insurance via "Vay Vandana" cards.

2

PM Kisan Samman Nidhi

24 February 2019

Income Support: Continues to provide Rs. 6,000/year (Budget 2026 proposed hikes for certain clusters); 22nd instalment due Feb 2026.

3

PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli

13 February 2024

Solar Revolution: Aims to provide 300 units of free electricity to 1 crore homes by 2027; subsidy up to Rs. 78,000 per household.

4

PMAY 2.0 (Urban/Gramin)

25 June 2015

Housing for All: The "2.0" phase (started late 2024) is currently building an additional 3 crore houses for middle and rural families.

5

Jal Jeevan Mission

15 August 2019

Tap Water: Currently at ~82% saturation; mission extended in 2025 to reach 100% of rural India by December 2028.

6

Digital India 2.0

01 July 2015

"India AI" Impact: 2026 focus is on deep-tech and AI-based governance in local languages; near-total 5G rural district coverage.

7

Lakhpati Didi Scheme

15 August 2023

Women's Income: Target doubled in Feb 2026 to create 6 crore "Lakhpati Didis" (women earning Rs. 1 lakh+/year) by March 2029.

8

PM Mudra Yojana (PMMY)

08 April 2015

Credit Support: The "Tarun Plus" category (introduced 2024) allows collateral-free loans up to Rs. 20 lakh for proven entrepreneurs.

9

Startup India 2.0

16 January 2016

Decade Milestone: Celebrated 10 years in Jan 2026; features a new Rs. 10,000 crore deep-tech fund to boost Indian manufacturing.

10

PM Vishwakarma

17 September 2023

Artisan Support: Now in Phase II; provides toolkit e-vouchers of Rs. 15,000 and loans up to Rs. 3 lakh at 5% interest for 18 traditional trades.

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List of top schemes supported by the current government

Over its two terms of service, the current government has launched and approved several schemes that are beneficial to the Indian public. Amongst this list is a noteworthy housing scheme as well. Here's what these schemes are and their key objectives.

Scheme name Launch date Objective
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana 25 June 2015 This is a noteworthy initiative that aims to provide housing for all by 2022 by ensuring affordable housing units made with eco-friendly materials.
AMRUT Plan 24 June 2015 The mission of this initiative is to create infrastructure for water supply to every home and proper sewage and provide green spaces and access to public transport.
MHADA Housing Scheme 2008 The mission of this initiative is to provide housing to residents of Maharashtra through a lottery scheme. Over 1,000 housing units are on offer every year, and the MHADA body handles everything from construction to allotment of these houses.


Among the many new government schemes available, those offering subsidies on significant expenses are most relevant to the average Indian. For example, the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) is ideal for working-class citizens looking to become homeowners. It allows you to affordably own home by giving you a subsidised home loan interest rate. As this is one of the most important government housing schemes, here are a few essential features to consider.

List of social security schemes in India 2022

The list below outlines the many new schemes launched by the current government for the development of the country and its residents.

  • Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan
  • Mission Karmayogi
  • Pradhan Mantri SVANidhi Scheme
  • Samarth Scheme
  • Savya Shiksha Abhiyaan
  • Rashtriya Gokul Mission
  • Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme
  • PM FME – Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme
  • Kapila Kalam Program
  • Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana
  • National Digital Health Mission
  • Solar Charkha Mission
  • SVAMITVA Scheme
  • Samarth Scheme
  • Sahakar Pragya Initiative
  • Integrated Processing Development Scheme
  • Housing for All Scheme
  • Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme
  • Fame India Scheme
  • KUSUM Scheme
  • Nai Roshni Scheme
  • Swadesh Darshan Scheme
  • National Water Mission
  • National Nutrition Mission
  • Operation Greens Scheme
  • Deep Ocean Mission
  • PM-KISAN (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi) Scheme
  • Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana
  • PM Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY)
  • Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-Dhan
  • New Jal Shakti Ministry
  • Jan Dhan Yojana
  • Skill India Mission
  • Make in India
  • Swachh Bharat Mission
  • Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana
  • Sukanya Samriddhi Scheme – Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
  • HRIDAY Scheme
  • PM Mudra Yojna
  • Ujala Yojna
  • Atal Pension Yojana
  • Prime Minister Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana
  • Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana
  • AMRUT Plan
  • Digital India Mission
  • Gold Monetization Scheme
  • UDAY
  • Start-up India
  • Setu Bhartam Yojana
  • Stand Up India
  • Prime Minister Ujjwala Plan
  • National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG)
  • Atal Bhujal Yojana (ABY)
  • Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situation (PM CARES)
  • Aarogya Setu
  • Ayushman Bharat
  • UMANG – Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance
  • PRASAD Scheme – Pilgrimage Rejuvenation And Spirituality Augmentation Drive
  • Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY)
  • Shramev Jayate Yojana
  • Smart Cities Mission
  • Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)
  • Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)
  • National Beekeeping & Honey Mission (NBHM)
  • Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY)
  • Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) Scheme
  • Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN) Scheme
  • UDID Project
  • eSanjeevani Programme (Online OPD)
  • Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana
  • YUVA Scheme for Young Authors
  • Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme
  • Scheme for Adolescent Girls (SAG)

Government Schemes

Scheme

Full-form

Launch

Government ministry

PMJDY

Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana

28 August 2014

Ministry of Finance

PMSSY

Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana

22 January 2015

Ministry of Health & Family Welfare

PMMY

Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana

08 April 2015

Ministry of Finance

PMJJBY

Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana

09 May 2015

Ministry of Finance

PMSBY

Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana

09 May 2015

Ministry of Finance

APY

Atal Pension Yojana

09 May 2015

Ministry of Finance

KVP

Kisan Vikas Patra

2014

Ministry of Finance

GMS

Gold Monetisation Scheme

04 November 2015

Ministry of Finance

PMFBY

Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana

18 February 2016

Ministry of Agriculture

PMGKY

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana

01 July 2015

Ministry of Agriculture

DDUGJY

Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana

25 July 2015

Ministry of Power

RGM

Rashtriya Gokul Mission

16 December 2014

Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare

DI

Digital India

01 July 2015

Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology

SI

Skill India

15 July 2015

Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurs

(PMKVY)

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana

2015

Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurs


Important schemes launched in India related to employment and poverty alleviation

Scheme

Full-form

Launch

Government ministry

MI

Make in India

25 September 2014

Ministry of Commerce and Industry

Startup India

Startup India, Standup India

16 January 2016

Government of India

PMGKY

Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY)

16 December 2016

Ministry of Finance


Important schemes launched in India related to health and sanitation

Full-form

Name of scheme

Date of launch

Government ministry

Swachh Bharat Abhiyan

SBA

02 October 2014

Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs

Namami Gange

NG

June 2014

Ministry of Water Resources

National Bal Swachhta

NBS

14 November 2014

Ministry of Women and Child Development

Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana’ (PMBJP)

(PMJAY)

September 2015

Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers

National Digital Health Mission

NDHM

15 August 2020

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare


Other government schemes launched by the Government of India

Scheme

Full-form

launch

Government ministry/  department

BBBPY

Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao Yojana

22 January 2015

Ministry of Women and Child Development

PDUSJY

Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Shramev Jayate Yojana

16 October 2014

Ministry of Labour and Employment

NSTSS

National Sports Talent Search Scheme

20 February 2015

Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports

PM SVANidhi

Prime Minister Street Vendor’s Atmanirbhar Nidhi

01 June 2020

Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs

PM FME

Pradhan Mantri Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme

29 June 2020

Ministry of Food Processing Industries

PMMSY

Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana

10 September 2020

Department of Fisheries

SWAMITVA

Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas

24 April 2020

Ministry of Panchayati Raj

PM-KUSUM

Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan

19 February 2019 (Approval Date)

Ministry of New and Renewable Energy


About the government schemes

1. Financial inclusion through Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) continues to strengthen access to banking services across India in 2026. The scheme enables individuals, particularly in rural and low-income households, to open zero-balance bank accounts with minimal documentation. Account holders receive access to savings facilities, RuPay debit cards, insurance cover, and direct transfer of government benefits. Over the years, PMJDY has helped millions move into the formal banking system and remains a key pillar of inclusive growth.

2. Boosting manufacturing with Make in India

The Make in India initiative continues to promote domestic production and global investment in 2026. It encourages companies to manufacture goods within India by simplifying regulations, improving infrastructure, and promoting innovation. Covering sectors such as automobiles, defence manufacturing, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and electronics, the programme aims to enhance job creation and reduce import dependence while positioning India as a strong manufacturing hub.

3. Clean India Vision – Swachh Bharat Mission

The Swachh Bharat Mission focuses on sanitation, hygiene, and waste management across urban and rural areas. In 2026, the mission continues under its next phase, concentrating on solid and liquid waste management, sustaining open defecation-free status, and promoting behavioural change. The programme supports construction of toilets, waste segregation, and public cleanliness drives to maintain a healthier living environment.

4. Empowering girls – Beti Bachao Beti Padhao

The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme promotes gender equality and supports the welfare of the girl child. It focuses on improving the child sex ratio, increasing enrolment of girls in schools, and raising awareness about their rights. In 2026, the initiative continues to support education, health services, and safety measures for girls across districts.

5. Pension security for informal workers – Atal Pension Yojana

The Atal Pension Yojana (APY) provides social security to workers in the unorganised sector. Subscribers contribute a fixed amount regularly and receive a guaranteed monthly pension after the age of 60. The scheme supports workers such as drivers, domestic helpers, and small traders, helping them secure financial stability during old age.

6. Advancing technology through Digital India Mission

The Digital India programme aims to make government services available online and improve digital infrastructure. In 2026, it continues to expand broadband connectivity, digital identity usage, and online service delivery. The initiative supports digital literacy, promotes electronic payments, and strengthens cybersecurity frameworks.

7. Supporting workers – Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan

The Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan scheme offers a monthly pension of Rs. 3,000 to eligible unorganised sector workers after the age of 60. The scheme operates on a voluntary and contributory basis. In case of the subscriber’s death, the spouse receives 50% of the pension amount as family support.

8. Earning from idle gold – Gold Monetisation Scheme

The Gold Monetisation Scheme allows individuals and institutions to deposit unused gold with authorised banks and earn interest on it. The scheme helps reduce reliance on gold imports and encourages productive use of idle assets within the economy.

9. Free healthcare access – Ayushman Bharat Yojana

The Ayushman Bharat Yojana, including PM-JAY, provides financial protection for hospital treatment to eligible families. It offers health coverage of up to Rs. 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalisation. Health and Wellness Centres under the mission strengthen primary healthcare delivery across rural and urban areas.

10. Supporting farmers – PM Kisan Samman Nidhi

The PM Kisan Samman Nidhi provides income support of Rs. 6,000 per year to eligible farmer families through Direct Benefit Transfer in three instalments. The scheme continues in 2026 to help farmers manage agricultural expenses and improve livelihood stability.

11. Water for every home – Jal Jeevan Mission

The Jal Jeevan Mission aims to provide functional tap water connections to rural households. The mission focuses on safe drinking water supply, water quality monitoring, and sustainable water sources to improve living standards in villages.

12. Housing for all – Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana

The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban and Gramin) supports affordable housing for economically weaker sections and low-income groups. Beneficiaries receive financial assistance to construct or purchase houses with basic amenities such as water, electricity, and sanitation facilities.

13. Skill development – Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana

The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana encourages youth to gain industry-relevant skills through certified training programmes. It supports recognition of prior learning and improves employability through structured skill courses.

14. Urban transport reforms – PM eBus Seva

The PM eBus Seva promotes clean and efficient public transport by introducing electric buses in cities under a public-private partnership model. The scheme supports reduced pollution levels and better urban mobility services.

15. Support for artisans – PM Vishwakarma

The PM Vishwakarma assists traditional artisans and craftspeople by providing skill training, financial support, modern tools, and market linkages. It helps improve product quality and integrates artisans into broader supply chains.

16. Nutrition for students – PM Poshan Shakti Nirman

The PM Poshan Shakti Nirman provides free nutritious meals to school children. The scheme aims to reduce malnutrition, improve attendance, and enhance learning outcomes in government and aided schools.

17. Education access – One Nation One Subscription

The One Nation One Subscription, launched in 2025, offers institutional access to global academic research through a unified digital platform. It supports students, researchers, and educational institutions by providing affordable access to scholarly journals and learning resources.

18. Rural employment – Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) guarantees at least 100 days of wage employment in a financial year to rural households willing to undertake unskilled manual work. The scheme continues to provide livelihood support and create rural infrastructure assets.

With India's infrastructure boom creating new residential opportunities, now is the perfect time to secure your home financing. Bajaj Finserv provides home loans up to Rs. 15 Crore* with flexible tenure options up to 32 years, making homeownership more accessible than ever. Check your loan offers with Bajaj Finserv. You may already be eligible, find out by entering your mobile number and OTP.

Notable PMAY Features

  • PMAY beneficiaries are classified as per their annual household incomes. The categories are EWS, LIG, MIG I and MIG II.
  • As a beneficiary, you stand to receive a maximum interest subsidy of up to 6.5% (amounting to Rs. 2.67 lakh) on your housing loan.
  • All PMAY units mandatorily need to be built using eco-friendly technologies and amenities.
  • An applicant can qualify for this scheme only if they or their family members do not own a pucca house anywhere in the country.
  • The differently-abled and senior citizen beneficiaries are mandatorily given preference for ground-floor accommodation under this scheme.

As you'll notice, PMAY can make buying a home much more affordable for you. What's more, when clubbed with a good housing finance solution, such as the Bajaj Finserv Housing Loan, you can get financing up to Rs. 15 Crore* at a competitive interest rate, as well as enjoy PMAY benefits. This ensures that the total cost of your home loan remains manageable. Additionally, Bajaj Finserv also lets you make part-prepayments or foreclose the loan at nil extra charges so that you can swiftly reduce your interest outgo whenever you have the funding. Moreover, you can opt to repay the loan over a flexible tenor of up to 32 years*. Other notable features include access to a property dossier that contains guidance about legal and financial matters that you're likely to encounter in the process of becoming a homeowner.

To get started, check your offers online. Use a tailored deal to hasten and simplify the loan application process.

Important links: What is Home Loan | Home Loan Interest Rates | Home Loan Eligibility Criteria | Documents Required for Home Loan | Home Loan Balance Transfer | Joint Home Loan | Home Loan Tax Benefits | Home Loan Subsidy | Housing Loan Top Up | Rural Home Loans | Home Loan Process | Down Payment for Home Loan | Pre-approved Home Loan | Home Loan Tenure

Popular calculators for your financial calculations

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Income Tax Calculator

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Frequently asked questions

What is the new scheme of the government?

Some of the latest government schemes include the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, which provides free rooftop solar power for households, and the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan to uplift tribal villages. The Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme also aims to promote Indian languages in education through digital books.

What is the Rs. 3,000 monthly government scheme?

This scheme refers to the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan Yojana, which provides a monthly pension of Rs. 3,000 to informal sector workers once they reach 60 years of age. If the beneficiary passes away, the spouse receives 50% of the pension amount as family support.

What are the new government schemes launched in 2025?

Some major schemes rolled out in 2025 include the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), and the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY). These schemes aim to improve financial inclusion, life insurance, and accident insurance coverage for Indian citizens.

What is the Rs. 15,000 scheme for youth?

This scheme offers an incentive of Rs. 15,000 to young individuals starting their first job. The initiative is designed to encourage employment and promote financial independence among youth, acting as a stepping stone towards a self-reliant future.

As young professionals establish their careers, many consider homeownership as their next major milestone. Bajaj Finserv offers attractive interest rates starting at 7.15%* p.a. and flexible repayment options perfect for young homebuyers. Check your eligibility for a home loan from Bajaj Finserv. You may already be eligible, find out by entering your mobile number and OTP.

Does Atal Pension Yojana offer Rs. 8.5 lakh?

No, the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) does not give a lump sum of Rs. 8.5 lakh. It provides a fixed monthly pension, which depends on the age of enrolment and contribution amount, starting from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 5,000 per month after the age of 60.

What is the Rs. 2 lakh scheme for girls?

The Mahila Samman Savings Certificate is a government scheme for women and girl children. A maximum of Rs. 2 lakh can be deposited, and the amount matures after two years with a fixed interest rate. It is a safe savings option under a guardian’s or woman’s name.

Who can apply for the PM Surya Ghar Yojana?

To apply, you must be an Indian citizen with your own home and a valid electricity connection. Your rooftop should be suitable for solar panel installation. Subsidies are provided for up to 3kW systems, and housing societies (RWAs) may receive additional support based on capacity and household count.

If you don't own a home yet but want to benefit from solar schemes like PM Surya Ghar Yojana, consider financing your dream home first. Bajaj Finserv provides comprehensive financing solutions up to Rs. 15 Crore* with competitive rates and quick approvals. Check your loan offers with Bajaj Finserv today. You may already be eligible, find out by entering your mobile number and OTP.

What is the Rs. 6,000 scheme for farmers?

The PM-KISAN scheme offers Rs. 6,000 annually to small and marginal farmers. The amount is distributed in three instalments of Rs. 2,000 each during April–July, August–November, and December–March. It is directly credited to farmers’ bank accounts via the DBT method.

What is the Rs. 2 lakh scheme under PM insurance?

Under the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, a death benefit of Rs. 2 lakh is paid to the nominee if the subscriber dies from any cause. The yearly premium is Rs. 436 per person, making it one of the most affordable life insurance schemes in India.

What is the new "Bharat-VISTAAR" tool for farmers?

The Bharat-VISTAAR platform, introduced on 17 February 2026, is an AI-based digital support system created for farmers across India. It works in multiple Indian languages and functions like a virtual agriculture advisor. Farmers can dial 155261 to speak with the AI assistant named “Bharati”. It offers guidance on crop selection, updated mandi prices, and information about eligibility for more than 10 central schemes, including Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi.

Is Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) now available for all senior citizens?

Yes, health coverage under Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana now extends to all Indian citizens aged 70 years and above. This expanded benefit was confirmed in the updated 2026 policy framework. Eligible seniors receive medical insurance cover of up to Rs. 5 lakh per year, without any income restriction. Beneficiaries are issued a special “Ayushman Vay Vandana Card” to access cashless treatment at empanelled hospitals across India.

What is "NPS Vatsalya" and how can I open an account?

NPS Vatsalya is a pension initiative designed for children below 18 years of age. Parents or legal guardians can open an account with a minimum yearly contribution of Rs. 1,000. The scheme helps build long-term retirement savings from an early age. Once the child turns 18, the account automatically transitions into a standard NPS account, ensuring continued investment growth and structured pension benefits in adulthood.

How does the "Biopharma SHAKTI" scheme affect me? (70 words)

The Biopharma SHAKTI scheme, announced in Budget 2026, has an allocation of Rs. 10,000 crore. Its objective is to strengthen domestic production of advanced medicines, including biologics used for treating cancer and diabetes. By promoting research and manufacturing within India, the mission aims to lower treatment costs and improve availability. Over time, patients may benefit from more affordable and accessible high-quality medicines.

What is the status of the "New Income Tax Act, 2025"?

The Income Tax Act, 2025 replaces the earlier Income Tax Act of 1961 and becomes effective from 01 April 2026. The updated law is intended to make tax rules clearer and easier to understand. It focuses on reducing disputes and simplifying compliance. Additionally, it provides a one-time opportunity for taxpayers to correct earlier filing mistakes with reduced penalties, encouraging voluntary and transparent tax reporting.

Do I need to renew my e-Shram card in 2026?

No renewal is required for the e-Shram card in 2026. The Universal Account Number (UAN) issued under this scheme remains valid for life. However, workers should regularly update their details on the portal if they change their mobile number, address, or skill category. Keeping information current ensures that they continue receiving government benefits and direct benefit transfers (DBT) without interruption or delay.

What is the "SME Growth Fund" for small businesses?

The SME Growth Fund, introduced in the February 2026 Union Budget, has a total allocation of Rs. 10,000 crore. It aims to support promising micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that show strong potential for expansion. The fund provides risk capital along with strategic guidance and mentoring. By helping selected businesses scale operations, the initiative seeks to create stronger enterprises that can compete nationally and internationally.

Are gig workers (like Zomato/Swiggy/Uber partners) covered under social security?

Yes, gig and platform workers are now covered under social welfare provisions implemented through the Code on Social Security, 2020. A dedicated Social Security Fund has been activated to extend benefits such as maternity assistance, disability support and old-age protection. Workers must register on the e-Shram portal to qualify. This move strengthens financial security for app-based and independent workers.

What are "City Economic Regions" (CERs)?

City Economic Regions (CERs) are part of a new urban development strategy focusing on selected Tier-2 and Tier-3 city clusters. Each chosen region may receive funding of up to Rs. 5,000 crore to upgrade infrastructure such as roads, utilities and logistics networks. The goal is to transform these areas into specialised growth centres, for example as temple tourism hubs, manufacturing clusters or logistics corridors, boosting regional economic development.

Can NRIs/ OCIs open an NPS Vatsalya account for their children?

Under NPS Vatsalya rules, a parent or guardian may be an NRI or OCI, but the child must hold Indian citizenship to qualify. The account can be opened through authorised channels, provided all eligibility conditions are met. An operational NRE or NRO bank account is compulsory for completing the registration. This ensures proper fund management and regulatory compliance under pension guidelines.

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