Employment and Welfare Schemes is part of Social Development. Below are notes on 13 sub-topics, followed by practice MCQs from State PSC and UPSC papers.

Education and Child Development Programs (e.g., Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, Integrated Child Development Services)

  • Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) was launched in 1975.
  • ICDS is implemented by the Ministry of Women and Child Welfare.
  • 'Bala Sanjivini' programme provides tertiary level Medicare for anganwadi children in selected hospitals.
  • Services provided under ICDS include supplementary feeding, immunisation, and health and nutrition education for 3-6 year old children.
  • ICDS does not provide distribution of free books and school dress to children.
  • The National Bal Swachchhta Mission was launched on 14th November 2014.
  • Ramon Magsaysay Award winner Shanta Sinha is known as an anti-child labour activist.
  • Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS) has shared funding by Central and State governments.
  • Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) was launched in the year 2001.
  • The Nand Ghar Scheme is launched to increase community partnership to run Anganwadi centres.
  • Samagra Shiksha subsumes Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA), and Teacher Education.
  • 'saksham', 'abhyas', 'drishti', and 'jagrati' are part of the 'innovation for girls education' programme.
  • INSPIRE program covers: Scheme for early attraction of talents, Scholarship for higher education, and Assured opportunity for research career.
  • UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund) is directly related to Child Welfare.
  • Akshay Patra was awarded the BBC World Service Global Champion Award for its programme to end child classroom hunger.
  • The Unnat Bharat Abhiyan aims to link higher education institutions in the country with at least five villages.
  • The age limit for the Khelo India School Games is 17 to 21 years.

Food and Nutrition Security Schemes (e.g., National Food Security Act, Mid-day Meal Scheme)

  • National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013:
    • Enacted in 2013 (came into force on July 5, 2013).
    • Aims to provide food and nutritional security by ensuring access to adequate quantity of quality food at affordable prices.
    • Covers up to 75% of the rural population and 50% of the urban population.
    • Provides nutritional support to women (e.g., maternity benefit of ₹6,000 for pregnant women and lactating mothers) and children (through ICDS and MDMS).
  • Mid-Day Meal Scheme (MDMS), now known as PM POSHAN Scheme:
    • Launched in 1995.
    • Objectives: Enhance enrollment, retention, and attendance in schools; improve nutritional status of children; promote universalization of primary education.
    • Covers Government schools, Government-aided schools, and Local Body schools. Private schools are NOT covered.
  • PAHAL (Pratyaksh Hastantarit Labh) Scheme:
    • Relates to Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) of LPG subsidy directly into consumers' bank accounts.
  • Give It Up Campaign:
    • Related to LPG subsidy. It encourages financially able LPG consumers to voluntarily surrender their LPG subsidy.
  • One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC) Scheme:
    • Scheme has become operational across all 36 States/Union Territories (UTs). Assam was the 36th state/UT to adopt ONORC.
    • Enables inter-state and intra-state portability of food security benefits under the NFSA.
    • Beneficiaries can lift their entitled food grains from any Fair Price Shop (FPS) in the country using their existing ration card with Aadhaar authentication.
    • Ration cards are seeded using Aadhaar, not voter identity cards, for nationalization and portability.
  • POSHAN Abhiyaan (National Nutrition Mission):
    • Full Form: Prime Minister's Overarching Scheme for Holistic Nutrition.
    • Aims to reduce malnutrition in a timebound manner, working towards a 'Kuposhan Mukt Bharat' (Malnutrition Free India).
    • Key institution related to its strategy and monitoring is NITI Aayog.
  • Dr. Verghese Kurien:
    • Hailed as the 'Father of the White Revolution' in India (Operation Flood).
  • Ayushman Bharat (AB):
    • Launched: 2018.
    • Objective: Paradigm shift from selective health services to a comprehensive continuum of care, addressing prevention, promotion, and treatment across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels.
    • Components:
      • Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs): Deliver Comprehensive Primary Health Care.
      • Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (PMJAY):
      • Target Group: Rural and poor populations (based on SECC 2011 data).
      • Coverage: Rs. 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization.
      • Access: Cashless and paperless services for beneficiaries at point of service.
      • Portability: Benefits are portable across empaneled public and private hospitals nationwide.
      • Pre-existing Conditions: Covered from day one.
  • Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY):
    • Part of: National Health Mission (NHM).
    • Objective: Reduce maternal and neonatal mortality by promoting institutional deliveries.
    • Sponsorship: 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS).
  • Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakaram (JSSK):
    • Entitlements: Free and zero expense delivery (including Caesarean section), free drugs and consumables, free essential diagnostics, free blood, free transport, and free treatment for sick newborns till 30 days after birth.
  • Sunandini Program:
    • Related to: Anganwadi workers.
  • Fit India Movement:
    • Launched: August 2019 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
  • ASHA Workers:
    • Recognition: Received WHO Global Health Leaders Award 2022.
  • Ayushman Bharat Mahatma Gandhi Rajasthan Health Insurance Scheme (State Specific):
    • Coverage: 1.10 crore families.
    • Packages: Raised to 1575 for treatment.

Housing and Sanitation Schemes (e.g., Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan)

  • Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (SBA) / Clean India Mission: Inaugurated on 2nd October 2014.
  • Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan (NBA): Earlier version of SBA; Brand Ambassador: Vidya Balan.
  • NBA/SBA Primary Aim: Ending Open Defecation (ODF) in rural areas.
  • Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen (SBM-G) Phase-II: Aims for ODF Plus villages by 2024-25, encompassing:
    • Sustaining ODF status.
    • Solid and Liquid Waste Management (SLWM) in villages.
    • Ensuring access to Individual Household Latrines (IHHL) for all households.
    • Promoting segregation and storage for plastic waste management.
  • Nirmal Gram Award Scheme: Recognizes Gram Panchayats for achieving desired levels of sanitation and ODF status.
  • Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) (Rural Drinking Water): Launched on 15th August 2019.
  • Integrated Subsidised Housing Scheme (ISHS): Formulated in 1952.
  • Namami Gange Integrated Conservation Mission Programme: Approved by Government of India in June 2014.
  • PRASAD Scheme (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive): Related to Tourism; Covers pilgrimage sites such as Ajmer, Amritsar, Kanchipuram.
  • NAMASTE Scheme (National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem): Related to sanitation workers, aiming to ensure their safety and dignity by eliminating hazardous manual cleaning.
  • Sanitation Worker Safety: Sanitation workers are at risk of injury from improperly disposed sharp objects (e.g., lancets, needles, syringes); proper disposal in puncture-resistant, marked containers is crucial to prevent injury.

Labor Reforms and Formalization of the Economy

  • Legislative Council's power regarding a bill is limited to interposing delay; no provision for joint sitting in State Legislatures to resolve disagreements.
  • Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016:
    • Bans employment of children below 14 years in all occupations and processes.
    • Prohibits employment of adolescents (14-18 years) in hazardous occupations and processes.
    • Allows employment of adolescents (14-18 years) in non-hazardous family enterprises or as artists/sports persons, only after school hours or during vacations.
  • Employees’ State Insurance (ESI) Act, 1948:
    • Applicable to non-seasonal factories using power and employing 10 or more persons, and non-power factories employing 20 or more persons. Also applicable to other establishments (e.g., shops, hotels, road transport) employing 10 or more persons in notified areas.
    • Implemented in all States/Union Territories of India.
    • Contributory in nature; all employees in applicable establishments are insured.
  • International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions: C138 (Minimum Age for Admission to Employment) and C182 (Worst Forms of Child Labour) are related to child labour.
  • Central Sector Scheme for Rehabilitation of Bonded Labourers, 2016:
    • Central Government bears 100% expenditure for cash rehabilitation assistance.
    • District-level Bonded Labour Rehabilitation Fund created with a permanent corpus of at least ₹10 lakhs (at the disposal of the District Magistrate).
    • Provides enhanced financial assistance: ₹1 lakh (general), ₹2 lakhs (special categories like women, children, disabled, transgender), and ₹3 lakhs (children rescued from hazardous work). Immediate assistance for identified bonded labourers is ₹20,000.
  • SANKALP (Skill Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for Livelihood Promotion) Project: Aims at eradicating unemployment through skill development and training.
  • Business Objectives: Employment generation is a key social objective of business.

Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and its impact

  • MGNREGA guarantees 100 days of wage employment in a financial year to every rural household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work.
  • MGNREGA mandates at least 33% (onethird) participation of women.
  • Kerala was the first state to employ differently-abled persons under MGNREGA.
  • 'Kurukshetra' is a lead magazine for rural development, published by the Ministry of Rural Development.
  • Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS) was established in Rajasthan in 1990.
  • MKSS played a pioneering role in advocating for the Right to Information (RTI) law in India.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Challenges in Scheme Implementation

  • Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat: Launched on October 31, 2015, on the 140th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
  • Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat: Aims to enhance understanding & bonding between States/ UTs, promote shared culture, mutual learning, and national integration.
  • Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY) objectives include: Improving basic amenities, reducing disparities, enriching social capital (community participation, volunteerism), promoting good governance, and holistic development.
  • Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY) focuses on human development (health, education), economic development (livelihoods), environmental development, and social development (gender equality, dignity of women, social justice, cleanliness, peace & harmony).
  • "Putting a check on child marriages" is not listed as a direct, specific primary objective of Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana, though it aligns with broader social development goals.

National Skill Development Mission and Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)

  • National Skill Development Mission (NSDM): Launched July 15, 2015, under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE). Provides an overarching framework for all skill development initiatives in India.
  • Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY): Flagship skill certification scheme of MSDE.
  • PMKVY 1.0 (2015-2016): Launched in 2015.
  • PMKVY 2.0 (2016-2020):
    • A grant-based scheme providing freeof-cost skill development training and certification.
    • Had two components: Centrally Sponsored Centrally Managed (CSCM) and Centrally Sponsored State Managed (CSSM).
    • Provided skill development training to school/college dropouts and unemployed youth.
    • Initiated a process of creating a registry of skills.
  • PMKVY 3.0 (2020-2021): Launched in 2020, focusing on demand-driven skill training and decentralized implementation.
  • National Initiative for Promoting Up-skilling of Nirman workers (NIPUN):
    • Launched: June 2022.
    • Aim: Skill training for 1 lakh construction workers.
    • Objective: Provide work opportunities, including in foreign countries.
    • Implementing Agency: National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC).
    • Implemented under: Dayal Upadhyaya Antyodaya Yojana-National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM).
  • National Career Service (NCS):
    • Initiative of: Ministry of Labour & Employment, Government of India.
    • Launched: In a Mission Mode.
    • Objective: To improve employment opportunities for all job seekers, not solely uneducated youth.
  • Skill Development Initiative (SDI) Scheme: Operationalised in May 2007.
  • "Gift a Skill" Appeal: Made by the Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship on the occasion of Vishwakarma Pooja.

Schemes for Persons with Disabilities and Senior Citizens

  • MITTI Cafe: Completely managed by differently-abled persons.
  • Uttarakhand: Provides ₹800/month financial assistance to persons aged 21+ and less than 4 feet in height.
  • Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay National Welfare Fund: Assists outstanding sportspersons (among others, often implied for persons with disabilities in this context).
  • ‘Garima Greh’: Shelter home for transgender persons, inaugurated by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
  • 'Rashtriya Garima Abhiyaan': National campaign to eradicate the practice of manual scavenging and rehabilitate manual scavengers.
  • ADHAR program (Advanced Data Handling and Retrieval): Often associated with training people for social defence, e.g., through the National Institute of Social Defence (NISD).
  • 'Astha Scheme': Related to differently abled persons.
  • 'Shakti Sadan Yojana': Primarily for women in difficult circumstances, not specifically or exclusively for specially abled persons.
  • Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY): A scheme for senior citizens.

Schemes for Women Empowerment and Child Protection (e.g., Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, PM Matru Vandana Yojana)

  • Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP): Focuses on improving Child Sex Ratio (CSR), girls' education, and women empowerment. Haryana is noted as a best-performing state for improving CSR.
  • Pragati Scholarship Scheme: Government of India scholarship specifically for the technical education of girls.
  • Kilkari Project: Delivers free voice messages relevant to pregnancy, delivery, and childcare to families of pregnant women.
  • Schemes under Women and Child Development: Include Anganwadi Services Scheme, Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), National Nutrition Mission (POSHAN Abhiyaan), and Child Protection Scheme.
  • One Stop Centre (OSC) Scheme: Aims to stop gender-based violence, support women affected by violence, and provide specialized services to aggrieved women, including victims of acid attack. It is not for providing cheaper credit to self-help groups.
  • SWADHAR Greh Scheme: Provides temporary shelter, food, clothing, medical aid, counseling, legal aid, and guidance to women in difficult circumstances. It is funded by both Union and State Governments.
  • Ujjwala (Comprehensive Anti-Trafficking Scheme): Addresses prevention, rescue, rehabilitation, reintegration, and repatriation of women and child victims of trafficking (including cross-border victims). It specifically targets victims of commercial sexual exploitation. The scheme has five components: Prevention, Rescue, Rehabilitation, Reintegration, and Repatriation.
  • Sukanya Samriddhi Scheme (SSS): Allows parents/legal guardians to open an account for a girl child up to 10 years of age. Contributions are eligible for tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. Interest earned thereon is fully tax-exempt. A maximum of Rs. 1.50 lakh per annum can be invested.
  • Surrogacy (Law Commission Recommendation): Recommended that the birth certificate bear the name of the commissioning parents only.
  • Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY LPG): Aims to provide LPG connections to BPL (Below Poverty Line) households.
  • Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017: Increased paid maternity leave from 12 weeks to 26 weeks for mothers with less than 2 surviving children.
  • STEP (Support to Training and Employment Programme for Women): A program meant exclusively for women for skill development and employment generation.
  • Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 2016: Prohibits the employment of children under 14 years in all occupations (with certain exceptions for family enterprises/artists) and prohibits the employment of adolescent labour (14-18 years) in all hazardous occupations.
  • Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (POSH) Act, 2013: The time limit for making a complaint is three months from the date of the incident.
  • Nari Shakti Puraskar: An award scheme that recognizes achievements and contributions of women.
  • Rashtriya Mahila Poshan Abhiyan (POSHAN Abhiyaan): Addresses improving the health and nutrition status of pregnant women, lactating mothers, and infants.
  • Vandematram Yojana: Related to pregnant women, offering free antenatal check-ups.
  • "Me Too" Campaign: Initiated to help individuals who have been sexually harassed.
  • Mukhya Mantri Rajshree Yojana (Rajasthan): Launched to improve the declining child sex ratio and promote women empowerment and gender equality by providing financial assistance for girl children.
  • Mahila Samakhya: A program focusing on women's education and empowerment, particularly in rural areas.
  • PM CARES for Children Scheme: Central government scheme to support children who have lost both parents due to COVID-19.

Self-Employment and Entrepreneurship Promotion Schemes (e.g., PM MUDRA Yojana, Startup India)

  • Rajasthan was the first Indian state to establish a mission on livelihoods.
  • Rajasthan's first Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) Scheme is the Bhamashaha Yojana.
  • Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM) aims to alleviate rural poverty by building sustainable community institutions of the poor.

Social Security Schemes (e.g., Atal Pension Yojana, PMJJBY, PMSBY)

  • Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-Dhan Yojana (PM-SYM):
    • Target: Unorganized workers.
    • Assured Pension: ₹3,000 per month after attaining 60 years of age.
    • Family Pension: Spouse receives 50% of subscriber's pension upon subscriber's death (during receipt of pension).
    • Subscriber's Contribution: Auto-debit from bank (Savings/Jan Dhan A/c); ranges from ₹55 to ₹200 per month, depending on entry age.
  • Mahatma Gandhi Pravasi Suraksha Yojana (MGPSY):
    • Introduced by: Ministry of External Affairs.
    • Purpose: Pension and life insurance fund scheme.
    • Beneficiaries: Overseas Indian workers having Emigration Check Required (ECR) passports.
  • Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY):
    • Launched under: Social Security Act, 2008.
    • Coverage: Primarily unorganized sector workers (BPL families).
  • Employees' State Insurance (ESI) Scheme:
    • Eligibility Wage Limit: Employees with monthly wages up to ₹21,000.

Welfare Initiatives for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes

  • Nomadic Herding Tribes: Bedouin, Bakarwal, and Kirghiz tribes practice nomadic herding.
  • Tribe Sub-caste Matches: Gond-Agariya, Baiga-Bijhwar, Bharia-Patliya are correct pairings.
  • Akanksha Scheme: Provides coaching for Scheduled Tribe (ST) students for competitive examinations.
  • Smt. Durga Bai Vyam: Associated with the Gond tribal art tradition.
  • ST Socio-Economic Development Schemes: PM Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana, Grants under Article 275(1) of the Constitution, and PM Janjatiya Vikas Mission are specifically for STs.
  • Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana: Not specifically for STs; focuses on the welfare of older persons.
  • Comprehensive Tribal Development Programme: Aims at land development, housing improvement, and infrastructure development for tribals.
  • Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers Act (FRA, 2006): Provides community rights to forest villages.
  • Special Central Assistance (SCA) to Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP): Supports various tribal development activities, including providing livelihood assets like dairy cows to BPL tribal groups.

3. Poverty & Unemployment

Practice MCQs: Employment and Welfare Schemes

Education and Child Development Programs (e.g., Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, Integrated Child Development Services)

  1. Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), launched in 1975 in India, is a scheme implemented by

    Asked in: JPSC CS Prelims 2014

    1. the Ministry of Education
    2. the Ministry of HRD
    3. the Ministry of Finance
    4. the Ministry of Women and Child Welfare
    Show answer

    Answer: D. the Ministry of Women and Child Welfare

    ICDS provides a package of six services: supplementary nutrition, pre-school non-formal education, nutrition & health education, immunization, health check-up, and referral services.

  2. 'Bala Sanjivini' is a programme meant to provide

    Asked in: KPSC KAS Prelims 2014

    1. Tertiary level Medicare for anganwadi chil‐ dren in selected hospitals across the State.
    2. Health care for school going children across the State.
    3. Medical insurance scheme for all the children across the State.
    4. None of the above.
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Tertiary level Medicare for anganwadi chil‐ dren in selected hospitals across the State.

    The program specifically targets providing tertiary (specialized and advanced) healthcare services to eligible children.

  3. Which among the following services is not provided under Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme ?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2017

    1. Supplementary feeding
    2. Immunisation water scarcity in Ladakh. He is popularly known as the 'Iceman of India'.
    3. Distribution of freebooks and school dress to the children
    4. Health and Nutrition Education to 3-6 year old children
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Distribution of freebooks and school dress to the children

    The ICDS scheme provides a package of services including: - Supplementary Nutrition - Immunisation - Health Check-up - Referral Services - Pre- school Non-formal Education (for children aged 3-6 years) - Nutrition and Health Education These services are delivered through Anganwadi Centres. Providing free books and school uniforms is typically associated with formal elementary education programs, such as those under the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan or state government initiatives, aimed at children attending primary school.

  4. The National Bal Swachchhta Mission was launched by the Government of India on

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2015

    1. 2nd October, 2014
    2. 14th November, 2014
    3. 6th December, 2014
    4. 30th January, 2015
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 14th November, 2014

    The mission was launched by the Ministry of Women and Child Development on November 14, 2014, which is celebrated as Children's Day (Bal Diwas) in India.

  5. The Ramon Magsaysay Award winner Shanta Sinha is known as:

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2004

    1. A campaigner for urban sanitation
    2. An anti-child labour activist
    3. An organiser of rain-water harvesting schemes
    4. An activist for the welfare of poor rural wo‐ men
    Show answer

    Answer: B. An anti-child labour activist

    Shanta Sinha's work has been instrumental in advocating for children's right to education and eradicating child labor in several parts of India.

  6. Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS) has shared funding by Central and State governments is fully funded by respective State governments is fully funded by Central government is a fully externally aided scheme

    Asked in: APPSC Group II Prelims 2016

    1. has shared funding by Central and State gov‐ ernments
    2. is fully funded by respective State govern‐ ments
    3. is fully funded by Central government
    4. is a fully externally aided scheme
    Show answer

    Answer: A. has shared funding by Central and State gov‐ ernments

    Centrally Sponsored Schemes are a major mechanism for implementing welfare programs in India, involving financial contributions from both levels of government.

  7. Sarva Shiksha Abhijan was launched in the year ______ .

    Asked in: WBCS Main Paper 3 2019

    1. 2000
    2. 2001
    3. 2002
    4. 2003
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 2001

    SSA aims to provide useful and relevant elementary education for all children in the 6 to 14 age group.

Food and Nutrition Security Schemes (e.g., National Food Security Act, Mid-day Meal Scheme)

  1. Give It Up campaign is related to which of the following ?

    Asked in: OPSC CS Prelims 2017

    1. Tobacco use
    2. Alcohol use
    3. LPG subsidy
    4. None of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: C. LPG subsidy

    "Give It Up" is a voluntary campaign aimed at redirecting LPG subsidies from economically well-off citizens to those who are in need, promoting equitable distribution of government welfare resources.

  2. Union Government's 'PAHAL' Scheme is related to :

    Asked in: OPSC CS Prelims 2019

    1. LPG subsidy trnasfer in consumer's account
    2. Toilets construction in schools
    3. Promoting girls education
    4. Ensuring health facilities to senior citizens
    Show answer

    Answer: A. LPG subsidy trnasfer in consumer's account

    PAHAL (Pratyaksh Hanstantarit Labh) is a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme for LPG subsidy. It was launched to directly transfer the subsidy amount to the bank accounts of LPG consumers, replacing the previous system of providing subsidized cylinders at below-market rates.

  3. Which of the following statements are not correct in respect of 'One Nation One Ration Card' (ONORC) ? (i) This Scheme has become operational in entire India. (ii) Assam became the 34th State to adopt ONORC. (iii) This move has made food security portability. (iv) Ration Cards are nationalised using voter identity card seeding.

    Asked in: OPSC CS Prelims 2021

    1. (i) and (iv)
    2. (ii) and (iii)
    3. (iii) and (iv)
    4. (ii) and (iv)
    Show answer

    Answer: D. (ii) and (iv)

    - The ONORC scheme has been implemented across all 36 states and Union Territories, making it operational in entire India. (Statement i is correct) - Assam was the 36th state/UT to join ONORC in June 2022, completing the nationwide rollout. (Statement ii is incorrect - it was the 36th, not 34th). - ONORC enables seamless portability of National Food Security Act (NFSA) entitlements, allowing beneficiaries to access their foodgrains from any Fair Price Shop (FPS) across the country. (Statement iii is correct). - Portability in ONORC is enabled through Aadhaar seeding with ration cards and biometric authentication at ePoS devices installed at FPSs, allowing identification of beneficiaries across states. Voter identity card seeding is not the mechanism used for ONORC portability. (Statement iv is incorrect).

  4. With reference to “National Food Security Act”, which of the following statements are correct? 1. It will cover up to 75% rural and 50% urban population. 2. It has special focus on nutritional support to women and children. 3. It was enforced on July 5, 2010. Codes:

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2024

    1. 2 and 3 are correct.
    2. 1 and 3 are correct.
    3. 1, 2 and 3 are correct.
    4. 1 and 2 are correct.
    Show answer

    Answer: D. 1 and 2 are correct.

    Key provisions and the enactment date of the National Food Security Act (NFSA) are tested here.

  5. Which one of the following types of schools is not covered under the Mid Day Meal Scheme (NP-MDMS)?

    Asked in: UPSC SO Steno 2017

    1. Government schools
    2. Government aided schools
    3. Local body schools
    4. Private schools
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Private schools

    - The Mid Day Meal Scheme aims to provide cooked meals to eligible children in schools. - The scheme primarily targets government and government-supported educational institutions.

  6. Mid-day Scheme was launched in 1995 to promote

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2008

    1. Aduh literacy
    2. Universalization of primary education
    3. Secondary education
    4. None of the aboves
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Universalization of primary education

    Providing a meal in school served as an incentive for parents to send their children, especially girls and disadvantaged children, to school regularly, directly supporting the goal of universal primary education.

  7. “Mid-day Meal” scheme was started in the year:

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2006

    1. 1995
    2. 1996
    3. 1997
    4. 1998
    Show answer

    Answer: A. 1995

    The National Programme of Nutritional Support to Primary Education, popularly known as the Mid- day Meal Scheme, was launched by the Government of India on 15th August 1995.

  1. 'Sunandini Program' is related to the

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 67th Re Exam

    1. Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs)
    2. primary health centre's doctors
    3. members of Gram Panchayat
    4. Anganwadi workers
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Anganwadi workers

    - The program aims to train and empower Anganwadi workers. - It focuses on improving their skills and knowledge related to child care, nutrition, health, and early childhood education.

  2. Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojna(AB-PMJAY) provides accessible and affordable health care to the common man in the country. Which of the following are correct about the scheme ? 1. AB-PMJAY provides a cover upto Rs. three lakhs per family per year, for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization across the public and private empaneled hospitals in the country. 2. It provides cashless and paper less access to services for the beneficiary at the point of service. 3. Pre existing conditions are covered from day one. 4. Benefits of the scheme are not portable across the country.

    Asked in: HAS Prelims 2021

    1. 1 and 2 only
    2. 2 and 3 only
    3. 3 and 4 only
    4. 1 and 4 only
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 2 and 3 only

    Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY is a flagship health insurance scheme. Key features include the coverage amount, portability of benefits, and inclusion of pre-existing conditions.

  3. Consider the following statements about Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) :

    Asked in: KPSC KAS Prelims 2015

    1. It was launched as a part of National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM).
    2. The objective was to improve maternal and neo-natal health by provision of institutional deliveries.
    3. It is a 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS). Which of the above statements are correct ? Select the code for the correct answer from the options given below : A. A and B only B. B and C only C. A and C only
    4. A, B and C
    Show answer

    Answer: B. The objective was to improve maternal and neo-natal health by provision of institutional deliveries.

    JSY is a demand promotion and conditional cash transfer scheme that incentivizes poor pregnant women to give birth in health facilities.

  4. What is the main aim of Janani Suraksha Yojana of National Health Mission ?

    Asked in: MPPSC CS Prelims 2020

    1. Reducing maternal and neonatal mortality
    2. To encourage people to use safe sexual meth‐ ods
    3. To provide pensions to widow women
    4. To provide shelters to poor people
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Reducing maternal and neonatal mortality

    Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) is a safe motherhood intervention under the National Health Mission (NHM). Its primary objective is to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality by promoting institutional delivery among poor pregnant women and providing cash assistance for delivery and post-delivery care.

  5. Janani Surakhya Yojana is a :

    Asked in: OPSC CS Prelims 2017

    1. Hundred percent Centrally Sponsored Scheme
    2. Hundred percent State Sponsored Scheme
    3. Centre and state has 50 : 50 share
    4. Fully sponsored by the private sector
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Hundred percent Centrally Sponsored Scheme

    Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) is a safe motherhood intervention under the National Health Mission (NHM). It is classified as a 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS). This means that the entire funding for the scheme's implementation, including the cash incentives provided to beneficiaries, comes from the Central Government.

  6. Which of the following statements are correct regarding the entitlements under the Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakaram (JSSK) of Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India? Free and zero expense delivery of pregnant women excluding Caesarean section. Free drugs and consumables. Essential diagnostics at nominal user charges. Free and zero expense treatment of sick newborn till 30 days after birth. Choose the correct combination:

    Asked in: PPSC CS Prelims 2013

    1. 1, 2 and 3
    2. 2 and 4
    3. 1 and 4
    4. 1, 2, 3 and 4
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 2 and 4

    JSSK provides free services for delivery (including C-section), drugs, consumables, diagnostics, blood transfusion, and treatment for sick newborns up to 30 days, at public health institutions.

  7. Fit India Movement, launched in August 2019 by

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2020

    1. Kapil Dev
    2. Sourav Ganguly
    3. Narendra Modi (Prime Minister)
    4. Virat Kohli
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Narendra Modi (Prime Minister)

    The movement aims to encourage people to incorporate physical activities and sports into their daily lives to stay healthy.

Housing and Sanitation Schemes (e.g., Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan)

  1. Every year, Americans use over one billion sharp objects to administer healthcare in their homes. These sharp objects include lancets, needles, and syringes. If not disposed off in puncture-resistant containers, they can injure sanitation workers. Sharp objects should be disposed off in hard plastic or metal containers with secure lids. The containers should be clearly marked and be puncture-resistant. The paragraph best supports the idea that sanitation workers can be injured, if they

    Asked in: KPSC KAS Prelims 2015

    1. Do not place sharp objects in puncture- resistant containers.
    2. Come in contact with sharp objects that have not been placed in secure containers.
    3. Are careless with sharp objects such as lancets, needles, and syringes in their homes.
    4. Do not mark the containers they pick up with a warning that those containers contain sharp ob‐ jects.
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Come in contact with sharp objects that have not been placed in secure containers.

    The paragraph explicitly states, "If not disposed off in puncture-resistant containers, they can injure sanitation workers." This means that when sharp objects are not properly contained, they can come into contact with sanitation workers, leading to injuries. Option B directly rephrases this condition: sanitation workers can be injured if they "Come in contact with sharp objects that have not been placed in secure containers." Secure/puncture-resistant containers prevent this contact.

  2. Who among the following actresses is the brand ambassador of ‘Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan’?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2016

    1. Madhuri Dixit
    2. Vidya Balan
    3. Priyanka Chopra
    4. Parineeti Chopra
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Vidya Balan

    Actress Vidya Balan was a prominent brand ambassador for the 'Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan', which was the previous version of India's sanitation campaign before it was rebranded as 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan' (Clean India Mission).

  3. Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan Yojana is associated with

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2012

    1. Development of villages
    2. Community toilets in slum areas.
    3. Construction of house for low income groups.
    4. None of the above.
    Show answer

    Answer: D. None of the above.

    Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan (NBA), launched in 2012, was a restructured version of the Total Sanitation Campaign (TSC). Its main objective was to accelerate sanitation coverage in rural areas, promoting hygiene education and providing incentives for constructing household toilets and community sanitary complexes.

  4. ‘Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan’ Started recently by Government of India related to:

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2012

    1. Making the Ganga, pollution free
    2. Making the Environment country pollution free
    3. Making the Urban areas of the country pollution free
    4. Ending the Open Latrine System in-Rural areas.
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Ending the Open Latrine System in-Rural areas.

    NBA was a restructured version of the Total Sanitation Campaign (TSC). Its main objective was to accelerate sanitation coverage in rural areas, aiming for Nirmal Grams (clean villages) and an Open Defecation Free (ODF) India.

  5. Q79: "PRASAD" scheme is related with -

    Asked in: Asstt. Jailor 2013

    1. Agriculture
    2. Mid day Meal
    3. Tourism
    4. Health
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Tourism

    PRASAD scheme aims to enhance the tourism infrastructure at religious and heritage sites to promote cultural tourism.

  6. Q80: Which of the following city is not covered under "PRASAD" scheme?

    Asked in: Asstt. Jailor 2013

    1. Jaipur
    2. Ajmer
    3. Amritsar
    4. Kanchipuram
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Amritsar

    The PRASAD scheme focuses on a curated list of pilgrimage and heritage sites for development.

  7. In Rajasthan Nirmal Gram Award Scheme has been initiated to

    Asked in: COLLEGE LECTURER 2014

    1. constructing highest number of toilets.
    2. providing highest number of safe drinking water connections.
    3. doing excellent work in creating awareness about cleanliness.
    4. achieving the desired levels of sanitation in Panchayat Samiti.
    Show answer

    Answer: D. achieving the desired levels of sanitation in Panchayat Samiti.

    The Nirmal Gram Puraskar Scheme in Rajasthan was instituted to achieve the desired levels of sanitation within Panchayat Samitis, encompassing all aspects of hygiene and sanitation practices.

Labor Reforms and Formalization of the Economy

  1. Regarding the disagreement between the two Houses of the State Legislature, which of the following is correct?

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2018

    1. The bill ends and becomes dead
    2. To resolve the issue a joint sitting will be called for
    3. The only power of the Council is to interpose some delay in the passage of the bill
    4. Legislative Council is a resolving body like Rajya Sabha
    Show answer

    Answer: C. The only power of the Council is to interpose some delay in the passage of the bill

    In a bicameral State Legislature, the Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad) has limited powers regarding ordinary bills compared to the Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha). If the Assembly passes a bill and sends it to the Council, the Council can pass it, reject it, suggest amendments, or delay it. However, the Assembly can override the Council's rejection or non-action by passing the bill a second time. In this scenario, the Council can only delay the bill for a maximum period (one month for the second time the bill is sent to it). Therefore, the Legislative Council's primary power in case of disagreement is to interpose some delay in the passage of the bill.

  2. Which of the following statements are correct with reference to the Child Labour (Prohibamended recently? 1. To ban child labour below 14 years. 2. To prohibit employment of adolescent labour aged 14-16 years in all sectors. 3. To prohibit employment of adolescent labour aged 14-18 years in hazardous sector. 4. To regulate their employment in non- hazardous sections.

    Asked in: ition and Regulation) Amendment Act (1986) · GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2018

    1. Only 1, 2 and 3
    2. Only 1, 3 and 4
    3. Only 2, 3 and 4
    4. 1, 2, 3 and 4
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Only 1, 3 and 4

    The Child Labour Amendment Act, 2016 brought stricter prohibitions for children below 14 and regulated employment for adolescents (14-18 years), restricting them only in hazardous work.

  3. Consider the following statements about Employees’ State Insurance (ESI) Act, 1948: 1. The Act is applicable to non-seasonal factories using power and employing 20 or more persons. 2. The ESI Scheme has already been implemented in different areas in all the States/Union Territories of India. 3. ESI Scheme being contributory in nature, all the employees in the factories or establishments to which the Act applies shall be insured. Which of the statements given above are correct?

    Asked in: UPSC CAPF 2009

    1. 1 and 2 only
    2. 1 and 3 only
    3. 2 and 3 only
    4. 1, 2 and 3
    Show answer

    Answer: A. 1 and 2 only

    The ESI Act is a social security legislation providing medical and cash benefits to insured persons and their dependents in case of sickness, maternity, disablement, or death due to employment injury. It operates on a contributory model, but with eligibility criteria based on employment type, location, and wage level.

  4. International Labour Organization's Conventions 138 and 182 are related to

    Asked in: UPSC IAS 2018

    1. Child labour
    2. Adaptation of agricultural practices to global climate change
    3. Regulation of food prices and food security
    4. Gender parity at the workplace
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Child labour

    Convention 138 establishes a minimum age for employment or work, which should not be less than the age of completion of compulsory schooling and, in any case, not less than 15 years (with exceptions for developing countries). Convention 182 calls for immediate and effective measures to secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labour, such as slavery, child trafficking, debt bondage, forced labour, recruitment for armed conflict, prostitution, pornography, and hazardous work.

  5. Under the Abolition and Rehabilitation of Bonded Labours Scheme, which among the following statements is/are correct? 1. The Central Government bears 100 percent expenditure and the States are not required to pay any contribution for the purpose of cash rehabilitation assistance for bonded labour. 2. Bonded labour rehabilitation fund is created at the district level by each State with permanent corpus of at least ₹10 lakhs at the disposal of the District Magistrate. 3. Immediate financial assistance of ₹50,000 per rescued labourer is provided by the concerned District Magistrate from the corpus fund. Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    Asked in: UPSC Combined Section Officer 2019 20

    1. 1 only
    2. 1 and 2 only
    3. 1 and 3 only
    4. 1, 2 and 3
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 1 and 2 only

    According to the Modified Centrally Sponsored Scheme for Rehabilitation of Bonded Labourers, 2016, a District Level Corpus Fund of minimum ₹10 Lakhs is to be created in each district, at the disposal of the District Magistrate (Statement 2 is correct based on the 2016 scheme). However, statement 1, claiming 100% expenditure by the Central Government and no contribution from States, is generally incorrect for States (sharing is 60:40 for general states, 90:10 for NE/Sikkim states). It is 100% for Union Territories. Statement 3 regarding ₹50,000 immediate financial assistance is also incorrect; the immediate assistance is ₹20,000 as per the 2016 scheme. Given that only statement 2 appears factually correct based on standard scheme details, and no option is "2 only", there appears to be an error in the question or options as presented. Assuming the question/options have an error and B is the intended answer, it implies statement 1 is also considered correct for the purpose of this question, despite contradicting standard information about state contributions under the scheme.

  6. "Sankalp" project is associated with the eradication of:

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2012

    1. AIDS/HIV
    2. Illiteracy
    3. Polio
    4. Unemployment
    Show answer

    Answer: A. AIDS/HIV

    "Sankalp" was a specific project under India's National AIDS Control Programme (NACP), specifically NACP-II (1999-2006). It focused on activities related to blood safety, including screening of blood, establishing blood banks, and promoting voluntary blood donation, which are crucial measures in preventing HIV transmission.

  7. Which of the following is a social objective of business? (a) Innovation (b) Employment generation (c) Business coordination (d) Risk management

    Asked in: RO ARO 2020

    1. Innovation
    2. Employment generation
    3. Business coordination
    4. Risk management
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Employment generation

    Social objectives of business focus on the welfare and betterment of society, while economic objectives relate to profit generation and growth.

Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and its impact

  1. Which is the first state to employ differently abled, in the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme?

    Asked in: TNPSC CS Prelims 2021

    1. Kerala
    2. Tamilnadu
    3. Gujarat
    4. Karnataka
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Kerala

    Kerala was the first state in India to specifically include persons with disabilities (differently abled) under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) by providing them with suitable work and other provisions tailored to their needs and abilities.

  2. What is true for 'Kurukshetra' among the following ?

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2010

    1. It is a theatre company.
    2. It is a lead magazine for rural development.
    3. It is a cultural report of the Central Govern‐ ment
    4. It is a strategy for urbanising rural areas.
    Show answer

    Answer: B. It is a lead magazine for rural development.

    The magazine covers policies, programmes, and challenges related to rural India, serving as a significant source of information for students, researchers, and policymakers interested in rural development.

  3. MGNREGA mandates participation of women by at least

    Asked in: WBCS Main Paper 5 2023

    1. 50 per cent
    2. 40 per cent
    3. 30 per cent
    4. 33 per cent
    Show answer

    Answer: D. 33 per cent

    MGNREGA explicitly reserves at least 33% of the employment opportunities for women to promote gender equality and empower rural women.

  4. Consider the following statements with reference to the Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan – (I) The Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan was established in Maharashtra in 1990. (II) The Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan played a pioneering role in getting the Right to Information Law passed in India. Choose the correct option - - Question not attempted

    Asked in: Sr. Teacher (Sec. Edu.) Comp. Exam 2024 group d 2024

    1. Both (I) and (II) are correct.
    2. Only (II) is correct.
    3. Neither (I) nor (II) is correct.
    4. Only (I) is correct.
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Only (II) is correct.

    This question tests knowledge about grassroots social movements in India and their contribution to significant legislative developments. It requires understanding the origins and impacts of the MKSS.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Challenges in Scheme Implementation

  1. Which of the following statements about 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' programme is/are correct? 1. It was announced in the year 2014. 2. Its aim is to create an environment which promotes learning between the States by sharing best practices and experiences. Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    Asked in: UPSC CAPF 2022

    1. 1 only
    2. 2 only
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 2 only

    The 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' programme is an initiative by the Government of India to promote the spirit of national integration through a deep and structured engagement between all states and Union Territories. It aims to showcase the rich diversity of India and promote cultural understanding.

  2. Which of the following is not an objective of Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana?

    Asked in: Asstt. Jailor 2013

    1. Putting a check on child marriages
    2. Improving basic amenities
    3. Reducing disparities
    4. Enriching social capital
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Putting a check on child marriages

    SAGY's objectives revolve around rural development, infrastructure, and socio-economic empowerment at the village level.

National Skill Development Mission and Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)

  1. An innovative Project called 'National Initiative for Promoting Up-skilling of Nirman workers (NIPUN) was launched in June 2022. Relating to this which of the following statements are correct ? (i) This initiative was launched for skill training of 1 lakh construction workers. (ii) It was launched under the flagship of Scheme of Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme. (iii) This Scheme will provide work opportunities to them in foreign countries also. (iv) This Scheme will be implemented by National Skill Development Corporation.

    Asked in: OPSC CS Prelims 2021

    1. (i), (iii) and (iv)
    2. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
    3. (i), (ii) and (iv)
    4. (i), (ii) and (iii)
    Show answer

    Answer: A. (i), (iii) and (iv)

    The National Initiative for Promoting Up-skilling of Nirman workers (NIPUN) project was launched in June 2022 by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). Statement (i) is correct as the project aims to train 1 lakh construction workers. Statement (ii) is incorrect; it was launched under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM) of MoHUA, not PM-EGP. Statement (iii) is correct; a key objective is to facilitate overseas placement opportunities for skilled workers. Statement (iv) is correct; the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) is the implementing agency for the project. We are looking for statements that are correct.

  2. Which of the following is/are true in relation to the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 2016 – 2020 ?

    Asked in: TSPSC Group 1 Prelims 2024

    1. It is a grant-based scheme, providing free of cost skill development training and certification.
    2. It had two components known as Cent‐ rally Sponsored Centrally Managed and State Sponsored State Managed.
    3. It provided skill development training to school, college dropouts and unemployed youth.
    4. It initiated a process of creating a registry of skills. Choose the correct answer : A. A, B and C only B. A, B and D only C. A, C and D only D. A, B, C and D
    Show answer

    Answer: D. It initiated a process of creating a registry of skills. Choose the correct answer : A. A, B and C only B. A, B and D only C. A, C and D only D. A, B, C and D

    Statement A is true: PMKVY 2.0 (2016-2020) was indeed a grant-based scheme where the government provided financial support to training partners to offer free or subsidized skill training and certification to eligible candidates. Statement B is true: PMKVY 2.0 had two main components for implementation: Centrally Sponsored Centrally Managed (through the National Skill Development Corporation - NSDC) and Centrally Sponsored State Managed (implemented by State Skill Development Missions). Statement C is true: The scheme primarily targeted unemployed youth, school and college dropouts, and existing workers seeking to improve their skills to enhance employability or start their own ventures. Statement D is true: The scheme aimed to create a pool of certified skilled labor and contributed towards establishing a system for tracking and registering skilled individuals, which is part of the broader effort to create a national registry of skills and certified workforce.

  3. Consider the following in respect of ‘National Career Service’: 1. National Career Service is an initiative of the Department of Personnel and Training, Government of India. 2. National Career Service has been launched in a Mission Mode to improve the employment opportunities to uneducated youth of the country. Which of the above statements is/are correct?

    Asked in: UPSC IAS 2017

    1. 1 only
    2. 2 only
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 2 only

    - Statement 1 is incorrect. The National Career Service (NCS) is an initiative of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India, not the Department of Personnel and Training. - Statement 2 is correct. NCS has been launched in a Mission Mode and one of its objectives is to improve employment opportunities for various categories of citizens, including youth (both educated and uneducated), by providing job matching, counselling, training information, etc. While it serves a broad population, improving opportunities for uneducated youth is indeed part of its mandate.

  4. "Skill Development Initiative" has been operationalised in

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2010

    1. February 2005
    2. February 2005
    3. May 2007
    4. April 2010
    Show answer

    Answer: C. May 2007

    The Skill Development Initiative (SDI) or MES scheme aimed to provide vocational training to early school leavers and existing workers to improve their employability.

  5. An appeal to "Gift a Skill" was made by Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship on the occasion of:

    Asked in: Civil Judge 2018

    1. Reksha Bandhan
    2. Vishwakarma Pooja
    3. Diwali
    4. International Labour Day
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Reksha Bandhan

    The "Gift a Skill" appeal was made by the Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship on Raksha Bandhan.

  6. Consider the following statements regarding the RESET programme of the Government of India : (i) It aims to empower the rural youth. (ii) It aims to empower the retired government employees. (iii) It aims to rehabilitate drug-addicted persons. (iv) It aims to empower retired sportspersons. Select the correct statement from the codes given below.

    Asked in: GS&EI ElectEngg 14 2024 1601 2025

    1. (i) and (iii)
    2. (ii) and (iv)
    3. Only (iii)
    4. Only (iv)
    Show answer

    Answer: A. (i) and (iii)

    The RESET (Rural Enterprise and Self-Employment Training) programme was launched by the Ministry of Rural Development. Its primary aim was to empower rural youth through skill development and entrepreneurship, and to facilitate the rehabilitation of drug-addicted persons by providing them with vocational training and support to integrate back into society.

Schemes for Persons with Disabilities and Senior Citizens

  1. Why "MITTI" cafe are famous ?

    Asked in: CGPSC Prelims Exam 2024

    1. Because they are completely managed by the senior citizens
    2. Because they are completely managed by the women
    3. Because they are completely managed by the differently abled persons
    4. Because they are completely managed by the third gender people
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Because they are completely managed by the differently abled persons

    - MITTI Cafe is a social initiative focused on empowering individuals with disabilities. - The cafes are managed and operated solely by persons with various disabilities. - Their fame comes from this unique staffing model and the inspiring work they do.

  2. Name the State that has set an example for the rest of the country by identifying 21 year plus people less than 4 feet in height and giving them financial assistance of ₹ 800 a month.

    Asked in: MPSC CS Prelims 2016

    1. Kerala
    2. Gujarat
    3. Uttarakhand
    4. West Bengal
    Show answer

    Answer: D. West Bengal

    - The question refers to a social welfare scheme providing financial assistance based on age and short stature. - The criteria mentioned are 21+ years of age and height less than 4 feet (approx 122 cm). - The assistance amount is ₹800 per month.

  3. Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay National Welfare fund assisting to whom?

    Asked in: TNPSC CS Prelims 2019

    1. Outstanding Research Scholars
    2. Outstanding Writers
    3. Outstanding Sports Persons
    4. Outstanding Farmers
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Outstanding Writers

    The fund is administered by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. It is specifically aimed at supporting indigent artists and their dependents.

  4. Which Ministry inaugurated ‘Garima Greh’, a shelter home for transgender persons ?

    Asked in: TSPSC Group 1 Prelims 2024

    1. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
    2. Ministry of Women and Child Development
    3. Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
    4. Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment

    The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is responsible for policies and schemes aimed at empowering and integrating transgender persons into society.

  5. 'Rashtriya Garima Abhiyaan' is a national campaign to

    Asked in: UPSC IAS 2016

    1. rehabilitate the homeless and destitute persons and provide them with suitable sources of liveli‐ hood
    2. release the sex workers from their practice and provide them with alternative sources of liveli‐ hood
    3. eradicate the practice of manual scavenging and rehabilitate the manual scavengers
    4. release the bonded labourers from their bondage and rehabilitate them
    Show answer

    Answer: C. eradicate the practice of manual scavenging and rehabilitate the manual scavengers

    - Rashtriya Garima Abhiyaan is a grassroots campaign initiated by the Jan Sahas movement, working with various civil society organizations across India. - Its primary objective is to eradicate manual scavenging and secure the rights and rehabilitation of manual scavengers, particularly women, who are historically subjected to this degrading practice. - The campaign focuses on mobilizing communities, advocating for policy implementation, and providing support for rehabilitation and alternative livelihoods.

  6. 'ADHAR' is a programme

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2009

    1. to help senior-citizens
    2. to provide nutritional support to adolescent woman
    3. to train people for social defence
    4. to provide identity to Indian residents.
    Show answer

    Answer: D. to provide identity to Indian residents.

    'ADHAR' is the previous spelling for 'Aadhaar'. The Aadhaar project is a unique identification project launched by the Government of India. It aims to collect biometric and demographic data from residents and issue a 12-digit unique identity number. The primary purpose is to provide a verifiable identity to every resident of India.

  7. 'Astha Scheme' is related to

    Asked in: Junior Accountant and TRA 2013

    1. differently abled persons
    2. students of scheduled castes
    3. women of tribal areas
    4. residents of slums
    Show answer

    Answer: A. differently abled persons

    Astha Scheme is related to differently-abled persons.

Schemes for Women Empowerment and Child Protection (e.g., Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, PM Matru Vandana Yojana)

  1. 'Pragati' scholarship scheme of the Government of India is meant for

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 2 2017

    1. higher education of girls
    2. technical education of girls
    3. secondary education of girls
    4. elementary education of girls
    Show answer

    Answer: B. technical education of girls

    The AICTE-Saksham and Pragati Scholarship Schemes are administered by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) to provide financial assistance to students. The Pragati scheme specifically aims to provide financial assistance to meritorious girl students to pursue technical education.

  2. According to Government of India which of the following states is the best performing state in Beti Bachao and Beti Padhao scheme?

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 2 2019

    1. Haryana
    2. Uttarakhand
    3. Uttar Pradesh
    4. Bihar
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Haryana

    While "best performing" can be subjective and depends on specific metrics, Haryana, which had one of the worst sex ratios initially, showed significant improvement after the scheme's implementation, and its efforts were frequently highlighted and lauded by the government.

  3. Which of the following projects of the Government of India is related to delivery of free messages relevant to pregnancy, delivery and childcare to the families of pregnant women ?

    Asked in: KPSC KAS Prelims 2015

    1. Kilkari
    2. Anmol
    3. Srijan
    4. Kishore
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Kilkari

    Kilkari utilizes mobile technology to provide crucial health information directly to beneficiaries in remote and underserved areas, aiming to improve maternal and child health outcomes.

  4. Which of the following schemes are included in women and child development schemes ? a. Anganwadi Services Scheme b. Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Scheme c. National Nutrition Mission d. Child Protection Scheme

    Asked in: MPSC CS Prelims 2018

    1. Only a and b
    2. Only c and d
    3. Only a, b and c
    4. All of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: D. All of the above

    - Anganwadi Services Scheme is the flagship programme under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) umbrella, providing supplementary nutrition, pre-school non-formal education, health and nutrition education, immunization, health check-up, and referral services to children below 6 years and pregnant/lactating women. - Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Scheme (PMMVY) is a maternity benefit program implemented by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, providing cash incentives to pregnant women and lactating mothers for the first living child of the family, subject to fulfilling specific conditions. - National Nutrition Mission (POSHAN Abhiyaan) is the flagship program to improve nutritional outcomes for children, adolescent girls, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. While broad, it has a strong focus on the nutritional needs of women and children. - Child Protection Scheme (now often referred to under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act framework and schemes like Mission Vatsalya) aims to create a safe and protective environment for children in difficult circumstances, through institutional and non-institutional care, and is implemented by the Ministry of Women and Child Development.

  5. Which one of the following is not an objective of One Stop Centre scheme?

    Asked in: UPSC Geoscientist 2023

    1. To stop gender-based violence
    2. To support women affected by violence
    3. To provide cheaper credit to self-help groups
    4. To provide specialized services to aggrieved women including victims of acid attack
    Show answer

    Answer: C. To provide cheaper credit to self-help groups

    The One Stop Centre (OSC) scheme, known as Sakhi, is a centrally sponsored scheme implemented by the Ministry of Women and Child Development since 2015. Its primary aim is to provide support to women affected by violence in private and public spaces, within the family, community, and at the workplace.

  6. Which of the following statements about Mother Teresa is/are True? I. She founded a new congregation named Missionaries of Charity II. She did not accept the citizenship of India III. She was awarded the Nobel peace prize IV. In 1929 A.D. she came to Madras as a Missionary

    Asked in: TNPSC CS Prelims 2015

    1. I and III correct
    2. II and IV correct
    3. I and IV correct
    4. I, III and IV correct
    Show answer

    Answer: A. I and III correct

    - Statement I: She founded a new congregation named Missionaries of Charity. This is true. Mother Teresa founded the Missionaries of Charity in Kolkata in 1950. - Statement II: She did not accept the citizenship of India. This is false. Mother Teresa became an Indian citizen in 1948. - Statement III: She was awarded the Nobel peace prize. This is true. She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 for her work in bringing help to suffering humanity. - Statement IV: In 1929 A.D. she came to Madras as a Missionary. This is false. She arrived in Calcutta (now Kolkata) in 1929 as a novice with the Sisters of Loreto and began teaching at their school there.

  7. Which of the following statements in relation to SWADHAR Greh Scheme are true ?

    Asked in: TSPSC Group 1 Prelims 2024

    1. It is meant for Tribal women.
    2. It is funded by the Union and State Governments.
    3. It builds houses for women.
    4. It provides legal aid and guidance to women. Choose the correct answer : A. A and B only B. B and C only C. A, B and D only D. B and D only
    Show answer

    Answer: D. It provides legal aid and guidance to women. Choose the correct answer : A. A and B only B. B and C only C. A, B and D only D. B and D only

    Statement A is false: The SWADHAR Greh scheme is not specifically meant for tribal women only. It is for all women who are in difficult circumstances, such as destitute women, widows, victims of domestic violence or natural disasters, women released from prison, women trafficked, etc. Statement B is true: SWADHAR Greh is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme, implying that the funding is shared between the Union Government and the State Governments as per prescribed norms. Statement C is false: The scheme provides temporary shelter or rehabilitation homes (Greh) for women in difficult circumstances, along with support services. It does not build permanent houses for beneficiaries. Statement D is true: A key component of the SWADHAR Greh scheme is to provide legal aid, counselling, and guidance to the women residents to help them access justice and resolve their issues.

Self-Employment and Entrepreneurship Promotion Schemes (e.g., PM MUDRA Yojana, Startup India)

  1. The first state in India to establish a mission on livelihoods

    Asked in: ACF And Forest Range Officer Gr I Comp. Exam 2018

    1. Madhya Pradesh
    2. Odisha
    3. Rajasthan
    4. Bihar
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Odisha

    This question assesses awareness of pioneering state-level initiatives related to poverty reduction and employment generation. Establishing a dedicated "mission on livelihoods" signifies a strategic approach to empowering vulnerable populations.

  2. Rajasthan's first Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) Scheme is

    Asked in: COLLEGE LECTURER 2014

    1. Agriculture Subsidy Scheme
    2. Bhamashaha Yojana
    3. Investment Subsidy Scheme
    4. Transport Subsidy Scheme
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Bhamashaha Yojana

    The Bhamashaha Yojana was the first Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme launched in Rajasthan, facilitating the direct transfer of subsidies and welfare benefits to citizens.

  3. Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM) seeks to

    Asked in: Sub Inspector Comb. Comp. Exam 2021 b 2021

    1. Alleviate rural poverty through building sus‐ tainable community institution of the poor.
    2. Alleviate poverty among SC and ST class.
    3. Provide employment to rural females.
    4. Provide subsidised food grains to rural fe‐ males.
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Alleviate rural poverty through building sus‐ tainable community institution of the poor.

    DAY-NRLM focuses on organizing rural poor women into Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to enable them to access financial services, livelihood opportunities, and other essential support for poverty reduction.

Social Security Schemes (e.g., Atal Pension Yojana, PMJJBY, PMSBY)

  1. Which of the following is/are not true regarding the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan- Dhan Yojana (PM-SYM) to ensure old age protection for unorganized workers? 1. Each subscriber shall receive minimum assured pension of Rs. 2,000 per month after attaining the age of 55 years. 2. Each subscriber shall receive minimum assured pension of Rs. 3,000 per month after attaining the age of 60 years. 3. During the receipt of pension, if the subscriber dies, the dependent members of the beneficiary shall be entitled to receive 50 percent of the pension received by beneficiary, as family pension. 4. The subscriber's contribution to PM- SYM is through auto-debit facility from his/her saving bank account/Jan Dhan Account and it ranges from Rs. 50 to 500 per month depending upon the entry age of the subscriber. Which of the options given above is/are not correct?

    Asked in: HAS Prelims 2022

    1. 1, 2 and 3 only
    2. 2, 3 and 4 only
    3. 1, 3 and 4 only
    4. 1 and 3 only
    Show answer

    Answer: C. 1, 3 and 4 only

    - PM-SYM provides a minimum assured pension of Rs. 3,000 per month. - The pension starts after the subscriber attains the age of 60 years. - Upon death of the subscriber, the spouse gets 50% as family pension. - Monthly contributions range from Rs. 55 to Rs. 200, depending on age (18-40).

  2. Consider the following statements: 1. Mahatma Gandhi Pravasi Suraksha Yojana (MGPSY) is a pension and life insurance fund scheme introduced by the Ministry of External Affairs. 2. The scheme is for the Overseas Indian workers having Emigration Check Required (ECR) passports. Which of the above statements is/are true?

    Asked in: PPSC CS Prelims 2013

    1. Both 1 and 2
    2. 1 only
    3. 2 only
    4. None of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Both 1 and 2

    - MGPSY was a welfare scheme for overseas Indian workers. - It provided benefits related to pension, insurance, and savings. - It targeted workers holding ECR passports.

  3. Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana launched under Social Security Act 2008 covers :

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2017

    1. only organized sector workers
    2. only rural workers
    3. only unorganized sector workers
    4. all category of workers
    Show answer

    Answer: C. only unorganized sector workers

    RSBY was a centrally sponsored health insurance scheme administered by the Ministry of Labour and Employment (initially, later moved to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare). Its objective was to provide health insurance coverage to BPL families in the unorganized sector.

  4. The upper threshold wage limit per month for an employee to avail benefits of ESI scheme is

    Asked in: APPSC Group II Prelims 2016

    1. ₹ 15,000
    2. ₹ 21,000
    3. ₹ 25,000
    4. ₹ 27,000
    Show answer

    Answer: B. ₹ 21,000

    The Employees' State Insurance (ESI) scheme provides socio-economic protection to employees. Eligibility for coverage under the standard ESI scheme depends on the monthly wage limit. This limit was revised from ₹15,000 to ₹21,000 per month with effect from 1st January 2017. Given the reference to 2016/2017 in other questions, ₹21,000 is the relevant upper threshold for general employees around that period.

Welfare Initiatives for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes

  1. Which of the following tribes practices nomadic herding for subsistence?

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2016

    1. Bedouin
    2. Bakarwal
    3. Kirghiz
    4. All of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: D. All of the above

    - Bedouins are nomadic Arab peoples of the Middle East and North Africa, traditionally engaged in herding camels, goats, and sheep. - Bakarwals are a nomadic pastoral community primarily found in the Jammu and Kashmir region of India, known for herding goats and sheep. - Kirghiz (Kyrgyz) are a Turkic ethnic group native to Central Asia, many of whom traditionally followed a nomadic pastoral lifestyle, herding livestock like horses, sheep, yaks, and cattle.

  2. Which of the following is not well- matched ? Tribe Sub Caste

    Asked in: MPPSC CS Prelims 2019

    1. Gond Agariya
    2. Baiga Bijhwar
    3. Bharia Patliya
    4. Korku Mahar
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Korku Mahar

    The pairs A, B, and C represent recognized sub- groups or related communities within the respective major tribal groups found in Madhya Pradesh. Agariya are a section of Gonds traditionally involved in iron smelting. Bijhwar is a prominent sub-division of the Baiga tribe. Patliya are sometimes listed as a section of Bharias or a group found in areas where Bharias live, though perhaps less widely known than the other links. However, Mahar is primarily a Scheduled Caste community, distinct from the Korku tribe, which is an Austroasiatic- speaking tribal group primarily found in the Satpura range. Mahar is not a sub-caste of Korku.

  3. Akanksha Scheme is related to

    Asked in: MPPSC CS Prelims 2020

    1. Coaching for Scheduled Tribe Students for competitive examination
    2. Coaching for Scheduled Tribe Students for sports
    3. To promote entrepreneurship among the Scheduled Tribe Students
    4. None of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Coaching for Scheduled Tribe Students for competitive examination

    The scheme aims to support ST students from economically weaker sections by providing them access to quality coaching, study materials, and sometimes hostel facilities, enabling them to compete on a level playing field.

  4. Smt. Durga Bai Vyam is associated with which tribal art ?

    Asked in: MPPSC CS Prelims 2021

    1. Gond Tradition
    2. Bhil Tradition
    3. Baiga Tradition
    4. Saharia Tradition
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Gond Tradition

    She is known for her distinctive paintings that depict tribal life, mythology, and nature, often drawing from the stories and traditions of her community. She learned the art from her uncle, the renowned Gond artist Jangarh Singh Shyam, and is a leading figure in keeping the Gond painting tradition alive.

  5. Which of the following schemes/provisions is/are specifically meant for the socio-economic development of Scheduled Tribes ?

    Asked in: TSPSC Group 1 Prelims 2024

    1. PM Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana
    2. Grants under Article 275(1) of the Con‐ stitution
    3. PM Janjatiya Vikas Mission
    4. Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana Choose the correct answer : A. A only B. A, B and C only C. D only D. B, C and D only
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Grants under Article 275(1) of the Con‐ stitution

    Statement A is true: PM Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana (formerly SCA to TSS) is explicitly designed for the integrated development of tribal villages and improving the socio-economic status of the Scheduled Tribe population in these areas. 'Adi Adarsh Gram' translates to 'First/Original Model Village', referencing tribal communities. Statement B is true: Article 275(1) of the Constitution provides for grants-in-aid from the Union Government to States specifically for promoting the welfare of Scheduled Tribes and improving the administration of Scheduled Areas. These grants are directly targeted towards ST development. Statement C is true: PM Janjatiya Vikas Mission focuses on the socio- economic development of tribal communities, often through initiatives related to livelihood enhancement, value addition to forest produce, etc. 'Janjatiya' is a term used for tribal people. Statement D is false: Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY) is the umbrella scheme for the welfare of Senior Citizens in India. It includes programs like Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSrC) and others aimed at the elderly population generally, not specifically Scheduled Tribes.

  6. Which one of the following statements is not true with regard to tribal welfare?

    Asked in: UPSC CAPF 2022

    1. The Comprehensive Tribal Development Pro‐ gramme aims at land development activities, im‐ provement of roof houses, infrastructure development and so on.
    2. As per the Scheduled Tribes and Other Tradi‐ tional Forest Dwellers Act, villages in forests are provided with community rights.
    3. The Special Area Development Programme aims at distribution of forest area produces equitably to the tribals.
    4. The Special Central Assistance to Tribal Subplan provides dairy cows to tribal groups living below the poverty line.
    Show answer

    Answer: C. The Special Area Development Programme aims at distribution of forest area produces equitably to the tribals.

    Statement C is not true. Special Area Development Programmes (SADP) generally focus on integrated development of specific backward or problematic geographical regions, such as hill areas, deserts, or drought-prone areas. Their aim is broad regional development and infrastructure improvement, not specifically the equitable distribution of forest produce to tribals. Equitable distribution of forest produce and forest rights are primarily addressed by legislation like the Forest Rights Act (FRA) and specific tribal livelihood programs.

  7. With reference to 'Changpa' community of India, consider the following statements : 1. They live mainly in the State of Uttarakhand. 2. They rear the Pashmina goats that yield a fine wool. 3. They are kept in the category of Scheduled Tribes. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Asked in: UPSC IAS 2014

    1. 1 only
    2. 2 and 3 only
    3. 3 only
    4. 1, 2 and 3
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 2 and 3 only

    - Changpa community primarily lives in Ladakh (Changthang region). - They are known for rearing Pashmina goats. - The Changpa are listed as a Scheduled Tribe in India.