12 issues picked from 119 PIB releases · about 2 minutes each · written by UPSC Grade, each fact checked against its PIB release or by a second model
How to readRead “Why in news” and “What it is” for every issue. Open For Prelims or For Mains for the exam you’re preparing for, then Test yourself at the foot of each card. Half the news questions in Prelims are answered from background, not the news itself.
On 18 March 2026 the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy extended the ALMM Order to solar ingots and wafers through a new List-III, effective 1 June 2028.
What it is
The Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) is an MNRE framework, begun with the 2019 Order, that lists approved makers of solar equipment. Projects covered by it must buy only from listed makers. It is used to build domestic solar manufacturing and ensure quality.
New list
ALMM List-III covers ingots and wafers, with wafers the first item to be enlisted. It takes effect on 1 June 2028.
Threshold for initial list
The initial list is issued only when at least 3 independent units, not under common ownership or control, have a combined 15 GW capacity.
Ingot capacity condition
A wafer maker seeking enlistment must also have equivalent ingot capacity.
Legal coverage
ALMM applies to projects awarded by competitive bidding under Sec 63 of the Electricity Act, 2003, and to net-metering and open-access projects.
Don’t confuse with ALMM vs DCR: ALMM lists approved makers. DCR requires use of domestically made components under specific schemes. The two operate side by side.
Don’t confuse with Ingot vs wafer vs cell: Ingots are sliced into wafers, wafers become cells, and cells are assembled into modules.
Economy terms and data: 42 Prelims questions since 2013, rising in recent years; they test what a term or instrument means. In Mains, 12 news-triggered questions.
Why it matters
Strengthens upstream solar manufacturing and cuts import dependence.
Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat and the 500 GW non-fossil capacity target for 2030.
Problems
Wafer capacity in India is limited and imports are high, so supply may fall short by 2028.
Domestic content may raise project costs and tariffs.
Way forward
Support upstream capacity with incentives such as PLI and with polysilicon supply.
Phase in the rules with grandfathering and review them on actual supply.
Put in your answer
2030 target: India aims for 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030.
UPSC’s own questions that come close to this issue, from our Prelims and Mains banks.
Test yourself
Prelims practice · Statements
Ours, not from a UPSC paper
Consider the following statements:
1.ALMM List-III, brought in by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy in 2026, covers solar ingots and wafers.
2.The initial ALMM List-III for wafers is to be issued only when at least three independent manufacturing units, not under common ownership or control, have a combined capacity of 15 GW.
3.Under the new order, a manufacturer seeking enlistment in List-III for wafers need not have ingot manufacturing capacity.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
True or false?
1 of 6
Statements the way Prelims prints them. Say first, then see the fact.
1.ALMM List-II relates to solar PV modules, and List-I relates to solar cells.
False. List-I is for modules and List-II is for cells.
2.The initial wafer list will be issued only when at least three independent manufacturing units with a combined capacity of 15 GW are available.
True. The threshold is 3 independent units and 15 GW combined.
3.Under the new order, manufacturers seeking enlistment for wafers need not have ingot manufacturing capacity.
False. They must have equivalent ingot manufacturing capacity.
4.The ALMM framework applies to projects bid out under Section 63 of the Electricity Act, 2003, and also to net-metering and open-access projects.
True. Both categories are covered.
5.The new order overrides the Domestic Content Requirement provisions under existing MNRE schemes.
False. It does not dilute or override any DCR provisions.
6.From the effective date, ALMM List-I will include only modules made using ALMM-listed cells and wafers.
True. Module listing will require listed cells and wafers.
Written by us from the release, not by UPSC; checked by a second model.
GS3 Agriculture: livestockGS2 Welfare schemesPrelims and Mains
Why in news
On 18 March 2026 the Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Ministry told the Lok Sabha that 11 of 14 Rashtriya Gokul Mission components met their targets, while IVF and bull import lagged.
What it is
Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) is a Central scheme of the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, begun in December 2014. It aims to develop and conserve indigenous bovine breeds and raise milk productivity through breed improvement. It works through artificial insemination, progeny testing, sex-sorted semen, IVF and breed multiplication farms.
Start
The mission has been running since December 2014, with all States and UTs taking part.
Targets met
Targets were achieved for 11 of the 14 components approved by the CCEA.
Lagging components
Bulls through embryos, import of bulls and IVF technology fell short because of poor farmer acceptance owing to high cost.
MAITRIs
MAITRIs are Multi-Purpose Artificial Insemination Technicians in Rural India who deliver AI at the farmer's doorstep; 42,096 were inducted in three years.
Milk output
Milk production rose from 146.3 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 247.87 million tonnes in 2024-25.
Breed multiplication farms
132 breed multiplication farms have been sanctioned, preferably for indigenous breeds.
Don’t confuse with Rashtriya Gokul Mission vs National Livestock Mission: RGM focuses on indigenous bovine breeding and milk productivity. National Livestock Mission covers wider livestock development, such as feed, fodder and small ruminants.
Schemes: 52 Prelims questions since 2013, 10 in Prelims 2026 alone. They test features, the period and who funds it. In Mains, 33 news-triggered questions, mostly GS3.
Why it matters
Raises milk yield and farmer income through better breeds and doorstep AI.
Conserves indigenous cattle breeds.
Problems
High cost of IVF and imported bulls limits farmer uptake.
AI target of 165 million animals was missed (152.90 million achieved).
Way forward
Spread low-cost indigenous IVF media and train technicians.
Strengthen MAITRI network and semen station quality.
Put in your answer
Milk production: Milk output rose 69.41% from 146.3 to 247.87 million tonnes (2014-15 to 2024-25).
Per capita availability: Per capita milk availability rose 52.03% to 485 grams per day.
UPSC’s own questions that come close to this issue, from our Prelims and Mains banks.
Test yourself
Prelims practice · Single answer
Ours, not from a UPSC paper
Consider the following statements about the Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM):
1. It has been implemented since December 2014, with all States and Union Territories participating.
2. Targets have been achieved for all 14 components approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs.
3. Low achievement in IVF technology under the scheme is attributed to its high cost and poor farmer acceptance.
4. MAITRIs are technicians who deliver artificial insemination services at the farmer's doorstep.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
True or false?
1 of 7
Statements the way Prelims prints them. Say first, then see the fact.
1.Rashtriya Gokul Mission has been implemented since December 2014.
True. It began in December 2014.
2.Targets have been achieved for all 14 components approved by the CCEA.
False. Targets were achieved for 11 of 14 components.
3.Low achievement in IVF technology under the scheme is attributed to its high cost and poor farmer acceptance.
True. High cost reduced acceptability among farmers.
4.MAITRIs are technicians trained to deliver artificial insemination services at the farmer's doorstep.
True. MAITRI stands for Multi-Purpose Artificial Insemination Technicians in Rural India.
5.Per capita milk availability rose from 319 grams per day in 2014-15 to 485 grams per day in 2024-25.
True. 319 to 485 grams per day, a 52.03% rise.
6.Milk production rose from 146.3 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 247.87 million tonnes in 2024-25.
True. This is a rise of 69.41%.
7.The scheme is run by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
False. It is run by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying).
Written by us from the release, not by UPSC; checked by a second model.
GS2 International RelationsGS3 SecurityPrelims and Mains
Why in news
The second edition of Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR began on 16 March 2026, with naval personnel from 16 friendly foreign countries. The Ministry of Defence announced it on 18 March 2026, after India took over the IONS chair in February 2026.
What it is
IOS SAGAR is an Indian Navy deployment in which an Indian ship carries personnel from friendly foreign navies on a joint training voyage with port calls in the Indian Ocean region. It is described as an operational expression of Vision MAHASAGAR, India's maritime cooperation approach. MAHASAGAR builds on the earlier SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) outlook.
Ship
INS Sunayna, an Offshore Patrol Vessel, sailed from Mumbai as IOS SAGAR on April 2, 2026.
Participants
Naval personnel from India and sixteen maritime forces of friendly foreign countries are on board.
Phases
The Harbour Phase ran from March 16-29, 2026. The Sea Phase runs from April 2 to May 20, 2026 across the South-Eastern Indian Ocean Region.
Port calls
Port calls are planned at Colombo, Phuket, Jakarta, Singapore, Chittagong, Yangon and Male. The deployment ends at Kochi.
MAHASAGAR
MAHASAGAR stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. IOS SAGAR is called its practical and operational expression.
Training
Crew training covers seamanship, navigation, firefighting, damage control, VBSS operations and bridgemanship.
Edition and start
The second edition of IOS SAGAR commenced on 16 March 2026.
IONS chair
The Indian Navy took over the chair of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium in February 2026.
Participation
Naval personnel from 16 friendly foreign countries take part in this edition.
MAHASAGAR expansion
MAHASAGAR stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions, and builds on SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region).
Training phase
The programme begins with training at Indian Naval training establishments in Kochi, followed by sailing on an Indian Naval ship.
Don’t confuse with SAGAR vs MAHASAGAR: SAGAR is Security and Growth for All in the Region, the earlier Indian Ocean outlook. MAHASAGAR is Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions, a broader vision.
Don’t confuse with IOS SAGAR vs INS Sagar: IOS SAGAR is a deployment name for a ship carrying multinational crew, not a separate ship class.
Don’t confuse with IOS SAGAR vs IONS: IOS SAGAR is an Indian Navy training deployment on a ship. IONS is a forum of Indian Ocean navies, now chaired by India.
Defence: Prelims tests exercises (with whom), equipment (who makes it) and firsts.
Why it matters
Builds trust and interoperability with Indian Ocean navies through shared training.
Supports India's role as a preferred security partner under Neighbourhood First and MAHASAGAR.
Builds interoperability and trust with Indian Ocean navies.
Supports India's role as a net security provider in the region.
Problems
Competing naval presence and contestation in the Indian Ocean.
Non-traditional threats such as IUU fishing, piracy and narco-trafficking need sustained joint effort.
Competing influence of other major powers in the Indian Ocean.
Way forward
Institutionalise regular joint deployments and information sharing with partner navies.
Expand capacity-building and maritime domain awareness support to smaller littoral states.
Continue regular editions and widen follow-up training and exercises with partner navies.
Put in your answer
Maritime threats: The Naval Chief listed contestation, IUU fishing, piracy, narco-trafficking and competition over critical resources as current maritime challenges.
GS3 Internal security: border areasGS2 SchemesPrelims and Mains
Why in news
On 18 March 2026, the Home Ministry told the Rajya Sabha that the Centre has approved Vibrant Villages Programme-II (VVP-II), with an outlay of ₹6839 crore till 2028-29.
What it is
The Border Area Development Programme (BADP) is a Ministry of Home Affairs scheme that funds basic infrastructure in villages near international borders. The Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP) is a newer border scheme for comprehensive development of select villages in border blocks, with the aim of improving living conditions and reducing out-migration.
BADP coverage
BADP covers villages and towns within 0-10 km (aerial distance) of the first habitation at the international border, in 16 States and 2 UTs.
BADP status
BADP is in its sunset phase and funds are allocated only for committed liability.
BADP method
BADP provides infrastructure such as health, education, roads, agriculture, sports, drinking water and sanitation, by convergence of central, State, UT and local schemes.
VVP-I
VVP-I was approved on 15 February 2023 for 662 select villages in blocks abutting the Northern border, in 4 States and 1 UT.
VVP-II
VVP-II was approved on 2 April 2025 for 1954 villages along International Land Borders other than the northern border, in 15 States and 2 UTs, till FY 2028-29.
Nodal ministry
BADP is run by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Scheme type and outlay
VVP-II is a Central Sector Scheme with an outlay of ₹6839 crore till FY 2028-29.
Coverage
1954 villages in blocks abutting international land borders, excluding the Northern Border covered under VVP-I.
Focus areas
Livelihood, roads, energisation, village infrastructure including health, financial inclusion, youth skills, cooperatives/SHGs/FPOs, tourism and culture, education, TV and telecom connectivity.
Implementing ministry
The scheme is run by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
BADP
BADP funds basic infrastructure in villages near international borders; it is also a Home Ministry scheme.
Outlay
VVP-II is launched at a cost of ₹6,839 crore.
Border covered
It targets blocks adjoining the international border.
Components
The programme includes schemes on security, saturation of welfare schemes and connectivity.
Ministry
The scheme is run by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Assam share
Assam has 140 villages in 26 blocks of 9 districts under the programme.
Launch
VVP-II is launched at Nathanpur village in Cachar district, Assam, on 20 February 2026.
Type and outlay
VVP-II is a Central Sector Scheme with an outlay of ₹6,839 crore up to FY 2028–29.
Approach
It uses a saturation-based and convergence-driven approach to develop border villages.
Security role
Residents are meant to act as the eyes and ears of the nation, aiding border security and preventing cross-border crime.
Don’t confuse with BADP vs VVP: BADP funds basic infrastructure in a 0-10 km border strip and is now in sunset phase. VVP gives comprehensive development to select villages in border blocks and is the current programme.
Don’t confuse with VVP-I vs VVP-II: VVP-I covers the Northern border (662 villages, 2023). VVP-II covers other land borders (1954 villages, 2025, till FY 2028-29).
Don’t confuse with Central Sector vs Centrally Sponsored: Central Sector schemes are fully funded by the Centre. Centrally Sponsored Schemes share costs with States.
Schemes: 52 Prelims questions since 2013, 10 in Prelims 2026 alone. They test features, the period and who funds it. In Mains, 33 news-triggered questions, mostly GS3.
Why it matters
Border villages get better infrastructure and services, which can reduce out-migration.
Settled border populations strengthen security and surveillance.
Better livelihoods and services in border villages can reduce out-migration and strengthen border security.
Gives border villages roads, telecom, education and livelihood support, which reduces out-migration.
Settled border populations strengthen border security and act as the eyes and ears of the state.
Develops border villages and curbs out-migration, keeping border areas populated.
Residents act as the eyes and ears of the nation, aiding border security and countering cross-border crime.
Problems
Difficult terrain and remoteness slow execution of projects.
Overlap between BADP, VVP and other schemes can cause coordination gaps.
Difficult terrain, remoteness and weak last-mile delivery slow infrastructure work.
Remote terrain, harsh weather and weak connectivity delay work and raise costs.
Local jobs and livelihoods are scarce, so saturating welfare schemes may not stop migration.
Difficult terrain, remoteness and poor connectivity slow work in border villages.
Coordinating many departments for convergence and delivering on time is hard.
Way forward
Strengthen convergence of central, State and local schemes under VVP.
Monitor outcomes at village level and complete BADP committed works.
Converge with other schemes and involve local communities, SHGs and cooperatives for asset upkeep.
Converge with other schemes and monitor with local participation.
Build livelihood options such as tourism, handicrafts and local enterprises.
Monitor outcomes with clear village-level indicators and third-party review.
Involve local communities and Panchayats in planning, and link livelihoods to local strengths.
Put in your answer
VVP-I: 662 villages in 4 States and 1 UT along the Northern border, approved February 2023.
VVP-II: 1954 villages in 15 States and 2 UTs along other land borders, till FY 2028-29.
Aim of the scheme: Develop border villages at par with others, stop migration and prevent infiltration.
Security through development: Strengthened villages let residents serve as the eyes and ears of the nation against cross-border crime.
UPSC’s own questions that come close to this issue, from our Prelims and Mains banks.
Test yourself
Prelims practice · Single answer
Ours, not from a UPSC paper
Consider the following statements about the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) and the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP):
1. BADP is implemented in villages within 0-10 km (aerial distance) of the first habitation at the international border.
2. BADP is presently in its sunset phase, with funds allocated only for committed liability.
3. Vibrant Villages Programme-I covers 1954 villages in blocks abutting the Northern border.
4. Vibrant Villages Programme-II covers villages along the Northern border only.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
True or false?
1 of 25
Statements the way Prelims prints them. Say first, then see the fact.
1.BADP covers villages situated within 0-10 km of the first habitation at the international border.
True. Coverage is 0-10 km aerial distance from the first habitation at the border.
2.BADP is presently in its sunset phase, with funds allocated for committed liability.
True. BADP is in its sunset phase.
3.Vibrant Villages Programme-I was approved in February 2023 for villages along the Northern border.
True. VVP-I was approved on 15 February 2023 for the Northern border.
4.Vibrant Villages Programme-II covers villages along the Northern border only.
False. VVP-II covers International Land Borders other than the northern border.
5.BADP is implemented by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
True. BADP is a Ministry of Home Affairs scheme.
6.Vibrant Villages Programme-II has been approved as a Central Sector Scheme.
True. It is a Central Sector Scheme.
7.VVP-II covers villages along the Northern Border.
False. The Northern Border is covered under VVP-I; VVP-II covers the other international land borders.
8.The programme includes Punjab, Rajasthan and Gujarat among its States.
True. These States are in the VVP-II list.
9.VVP-II is funded till FY 2028-29 with an outlay of ₹6839 crore.
True. Outlay is ₹6839 crore till 2028-29.
10.The programme excludes development of cooperatives, SHGs and FPOs from its focus areas.
False. Cooperatives, SHGs and FPOs are a focus area.
11.VVP-II is implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development.
False. The Ministry of Home Affairs is the nodal ministry.
12.Vibrant Villages Programme-II covers villages in 17 states and Union Territories.
True. The release says villages across 17 states are covered, and it lists Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir among them.
13.The programme covers about 1,954 villages in 334 blocks adjoining the international border.
True. 1,954 villages in 334 blocks.
14.The programme was launched from a village in Assam's Barak Valley.
True. It was launched at Nathanpur village in Assam, and the release links the launch to the Barak Valley.
15.Vibrant Villages Programme-II is implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development.
False. It is a Ministry of Home Affairs scheme.
16.The programme includes components related to security, saturation of welfare schemes and connectivity.
True. The release lists these three types of schemes.
17.Assam has 140 villages under the programme, spread over 9 districts.
True. Assam has 140 villages in 26 blocks across 9 districts.
18.The programme is limited to the northern border with China.
False. VVP-II covers villages along international borders in 17 states, including Punjab, Rajasthan and Gujarat.
19.Vibrant Villages Programme–II is a Central Sector Scheme.
True. The release calls it a Central Sector Scheme.
20.VVP-II is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme in which States share the cost.
False. It is a Central Sector Scheme, not a Centrally Sponsored Scheme.
21.VVP-II is to be implemented across 15 States and 2 Union Territories.
True. Coverage is 15 States and 2 UTs.
22.VVP-II has an outlay of ₹6,839 crore up to FY 2028–29.
True. The outlay is ₹6,839 crore up to FY 2028–29.
23.VVP-II was launched from Nathanpur village in Cachar district of Tripura.
False. Nathanpur village is in Cachar district of Assam.
24.VVP-II follows a saturation-based and convergence-driven approach.
True. This approach is stated as the design of VVP-II.
25.The Border Area Development Programme is implemented by the Ministry of Defence.
False. BADP is a Ministry of Home Affairs scheme.
Written by us from the release, not by UPSC; checked by a second model.
Mains practice
15 marks · 250 words
On 20 February 2026, the Union Home Minister launched the ₹6,839 crore Vibrant Villages Programme-II for border villages in 17 states. Examine the key features of the programme and discuss the challenges in developing border villages and preventing out-migration from them. Suggest a way forward.
GS2 Governance and rural land recordsGS3 EconomyPrelims and Mains
Why in news
On 18 March 2026, the Panchayati Raj Minister told the Rajya Sabha that SVAMITVA drone surveys cover 3.29 lakh villages and 2.65 crore property cards are distributed (as on 11 March 2026).
What it is
SVAMITVA (Survey of Villages Abadi and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas) is a Centre-run scheme of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj. It maps inhabited rural land (abadi) by drone and gives owners a Record of Rights as a property card. It was launched on National Panchayati Raj Day, 24 April 2020.
Objective
Gives a Record of Rights to property owners in rural abadi areas.
Technology
Drones and CORS (Continuously Operating Reference Stations) are used to make high-accuracy maps.
Who does what
The Ministry funds Survey of India for drone survey and maps. States/UTs do ground truthing and prepare and distribute cards.
Link with eGramSwaraj
SVAMITVA is not integrated with eGramSwaraj, which is a work-based planning, accounting and monitoring system for Panchayats.
Credit use
11,147 loans worth Rs 1,713 crore have been disbursed on property cards. SLBC is used to push bank acceptance.
Launch
Launched on 24 April 2020 (National Panchayati Raj Day).
Survey agency
The Ministry funds Survey of India to complete the drone survey and prepare maps.
State role
States/UTs do ground truthing, and prepare and distribute property cards.
Progress
Drone survey is done in 3.29 lakh of 3.44 lakh targeted villages, as on 11 March 2026.
Women's co-ownership
The Ministry keeps no gender-wise record of beneficiaries; some states provide for women's co-ownership in cards.
Nature of scheme
It is a Central Sector scheme of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, launched on 24 April 2020.
Don’t confuse with SVAMITVA vs eGramSwaraj: SVAMITVA gives property cards for abadi land; eGramSwaraj is a Panchayat planning, accounting and monitoring portal.
Don’t confuse with SVAMITVA vs DILRMP: SVAMITVA covers rural abadi land; DILRMP (Ministry of Rural Development, Department of Land Resources) digitises land records generally.
Schemes: 52 Prelims questions since 2013, 10 in Prelims 2026 alone. They test features, the period and who funds it. In Mains, 33 news-triggered questions, mostly GS3.
Why it matters
Clear property titles reduce disputes and let owners use the property as collateral for credit.
Accurate village maps support better Panchayat planning and property-tax base.
Property cards give rural households legal ownership proof, enabling bank credit and cutting disputes.
Accurate maps help village planning and property tax assessment by panchayats.
Problems
Banks accept the cards unevenly, so loans so far are small (Rs 1,713 crore) next to 2.72 crore cards distributed.
Cards are prepared and distributed unevenly across States, since ground truthing rests with States.
Progress is uneven: state-wise card preparation and distribution lag in many states.
Gender-wise data is not kept, and co-ownership by women is provided in only some states.
Way forward
Get banks, Revenue Departments and the Department of Financial Services to agree on uniform acceptance of cards through SLBCs.
Speed up State-level ground truthing and card distribution to meet the 3.38 lakh village target.
Speed up ground truthing and card distribution in lagging states.
Track gender-wise data and encourage women's co-ownership in cards.
Put in your answer
Credit disbursed: 11,147 loans worth Rs 1,713 crore have been given against property cards.
UPSC’s own questions that come close to this issue, from our Prelims and Mains banks.
Test yourself
Prelims practice · Single answer
Ours, not from a UPSC paper
Consider the following statements about the SVAMITVA Scheme:
1. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj provides funds to the Survey of India for the drone survey and map preparation.
2. Ground truthing and distribution of property cards are done directly by the Survey of India.
3. The scheme uses drone survey together with Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) technology.
4. The scheme is integrated with the eGramSwaraj portal.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
True or false?
1 of 14
Statements the way Prelims prints them. Say first, then see the fact.
1.Under SVAMITVA, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj provides funds to the Survey of India for drone survey and map preparation.
True. The Ministry funds Survey of India for drone survey and maps.
2.Ground truthing and distribution of property cards under SVAMITVA are done directly by the Survey of India.
False. States/UTs do ground truthing, card preparation and distribution.
3.SVAMITVA uses drone survey together with Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) technology.
True. Drones plus CORS give high-accuracy abadi maps.
4.SVAMITVA is integrated with the eGramSwaraj portal.
False. It is not integrated; eGramSwaraj is a work-based planning, accounting and monitoring system.
5.The main objective of SVAMITVA is to give a Record of Rights to property owners in rural inhabited areas.
True. Record of Rights for abadi property owners.
6.The State Level Bankers' Committee is used by State Governments to streamline bank acceptance of SVAMITVA property cards.
True. States use SLBC for bank acceptance of cards.
7.SVAMITVA was launched in 2020 by the Ministry of Rural Development.
False. It is run by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and was launched on 24 April 2020.
8.Under SVAMITVA, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj provides funds to Survey of India for the drone survey and map preparation.
True. The Ministry funds Survey of India for drone survey and maps.
9.Preparation and distribution of property cards under SVAMITVA are undertaken by the Survey of India.
False. States/UTs undertake ground truthing, and prepare and distribute property cards.
10.The scheme uses drone survey together with Continuously Operating Reference Stations technology to map abadi areas.
True. Drones plus CORS are used for high-accuracy maps.
11.SVAMITVA maps agricultural land parcels in villages to give farmers a Record of Rights.
False. It maps inhabited rural land (abadi), not agricultural parcels.
12.As on 11 March 2026, drone survey had been completed in a majority of the targeted villages.
True. 3.29 lakh of 3.44 lakh villages were surveyed.
13.The Ministry of Panchayati Raj maintains gender-wise records of SVAMITVA beneficiaries.
False. It does not maintain such records.
14.SVAMITVA was launched on National Panchayati Raj Day in 2020.
True. Launched on 24 April 2020.
Written by us from the release, not by UPSC; checked by a second model.
GS2 Laws: film piracyGS3 Cyber and IT lawPrelims and Mains
Why in news
On 18 March 2026, the Government told the Lok Sabha that Telegram was notified on 11.03.2026 to disable 3,142 piracy channels, and about 800 websites were blocked under the Cinematograph (Amendment) Act, 2023.
What it is
The Cinematograph (Amendment) Act, 2023 amended the Cinematograph Act, 1952. It added Sections 6AA and 6AB against unauthorised recording and transmission of films, and changed the certification rules. It also set penalties for piracy and let the Government notify intermediaries hosting pirated content.
Banned acts
Sections 6AA and 6AB prohibit unauthorised recording and unauthorised transmission of films.
Penalty
Minimum 3 months jail and Rs 3 lakh fine, extendable to 3 years jail and fine up to 5% of audited gross production cost.
Notifying intermediaries
Section 7(1B)(ii) lets the Government notify intermediaries hosting pirated content under Section 79(3) of the IT Act, 2000.
Complaint mechanism
Nodal Officers of the I&B Ministry receive complaints in a prescribed format, issued by Public Notice dated 03.11.2023.
Parent Act
The amended law is the Cinematograph Act, 1952.
Nature of CBFC
CBFC is a statutory body under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting that certifies films for public exhibition.
Grounds for cuts
Cuts or modifications are recommended only on statutory grounds such as sovereignty and integrity, security, public order, decency, morality, defamation, contempt of court or incitement to offence.
Films certified
CBFC certified 71,963 films from 2020-21 to 2024-25.
Appeal
The Act provides for an appeal against the Board's order before the High Court.
2023 amendment
The Cinematograph (Amendment) Act, 2023 added Sections 6AA and 6AB against unauthorised recording and transmission of films and set penalties for piracy.
Don’t confuse with Section 79 vs Section 69A of IT Act: Section 79(3)(b) covers takedown notices to intermediaries who lose safe harbour; Section 69A lets the Government block public access on specified grounds such as sovereignty and public order.
Don’t confuse with Cinematograph Act vs Copyright Act: The Cinematograph Act deals with film certification and now recording/transmission piracy; the Copyright Act, 1957 governs copyright infringement generally.
Don’t confuse with Statutory vs constitutional body: CBFC is created by an Act of Parliament. It has no constitutional status, unlike the Election Commission.
Laws, judgments and statutory bodies: 30 Prelims questions since 2013 (what the law says, who chairs, legal basis). In Mains, 44 news-triggered questions, most in GS2, asking for provisions and challenges.
Why it matters
Gives film piracy a specific criminal penalty and a government takedown route, protecting creators' revenue.
Gives a legal, rule-based process for film certification.
Balances creative freedom with limits on speech under Article 19(2).
Problems
Blocked channels and sites can reappear under new names, so enforcement is repetitive.
Takedown powers on intermediaries raise concerns about over-blocking and free speech.
Critics see certification and cuts as censorship that curbs free expression.
Appeals to High Courts add delay and cost for filmmakers.
Way forward
Add transparent review and appeal for takedown notices.
Use technology such as watermarking, and cooperation with platforms, to trace and stop leaks early.
Keep cuts tied to clear statutory grounds and publish reasons.
Strengthen transparency and time-bound disposal of certification and appeals.
Put in your answer
CBFC certification volume: 71,963 films were certified in five years from 2020-21 to 2024-25.
Court appeal route: Appeal against a CBFC order lies before the High Court under the Act.
UPSC’s own questions that come close to this issue, from our Prelims and Mains banks.
Test yourself
Prelims practice · Statement I and II
Ours, not from a UPSC paper
Consider the following statements regarding the Cinematograph (Amendment) Act, 2023:
Statement-I: Under the Cinematograph Act, as amended in 2023, a person who contravenes the ban on unauthorised recording or transmission of films can be punished with imprisonment of up to 3 years and a fine of up to 5% of the audited gross production cost.
Statement-II: The Act lets the Government notify intermediaries hosting pirated content under Section 79(3) of the Information Technology Act, 2000.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
True or false?
1 of 6
Statements the way Prelims prints them. Say first, then see the fact.
1.Sections 6AA and 6AB of the Cinematograph Act prohibit unauthorised recording and unauthorised transmission of films.
True. 6AA and 6AB cover unauthorised recording and transmission.
2.The maximum fine for film piracy under the Act is Rs 3 lakh, irrespective of production cost.
False. Fine can extend up to 5% of audited gross production cost; Rs 3 lakh is the minimum.
3.The Act provides imprisonment for piracy of up to 3 years.
True. Minimum 3 months, maximum 3 years.
4.Notification of intermediaries hosting pirated content is done under Section 79(3) of the Information Technology Act, 2000.
True. Section 79(3) of the IT Act is used.
5.Complaints about pirated films can be made only by the original copyright holders.
False. Copyright holders, persons authorised by them, or any other individual may complain.
6.The Cinematograph Act that the 2023 Amendment modifies was enacted in 1952.
True. The parent law is the Cinematograph Act, 1952.
Written by us from the release, not by UPSC; checked by a second model.
GS3 Science and technology: spacePrelims and Mains
Why in news
On 18 March 2026, the Government told the Lok Sabha that 129 trackable debris objects from Indian missions are in orbit, and described steps under the Debris Free Space Mission and NETRA.
Debris count
129 trackable debris objects from Indian missions are in orbit as of March 2026. This includes 33 pieces from the in-orbit break-up of a PSLV C3 rocket body.
DFSM goal
DFSM was announced in 2024. It aims at zero debris creation by all Indian actors, government and private, by 2030.
ISSAR
ISRO releases the Indian Space Situational Assessment Report every year with assessments of the space situation.
International guidelines
India aligns its mitigation policy with IADC and UNCOPUOS guidelines. ISRO is an active IADC member.
IS4OM
IS4OM was set up in 2022. It coordinates long-term sustainability of outer space activities, and supports start-ups through IN-SPACe.
Don’t confuse with IADC vs UNCOPUOS: IADC is a forum of space agencies; UNCOPUOS is the UN committee on peaceful uses of outer space. Both issue debris mitigation guidelines.
Don’t confuse with NETRA vs ISSAR: NETRA is the tracking and warning project; ISSAR is ISRO's annual assessment report.
Science and technology: 57 Prelims questions since 2013; most test the concept behind the news, not the news itself. In Mains, 12 news-triggered questions.
Why it matters
Debris threatens satellites used for communication, navigation and weather services, so mitigation protects space assets.
DFSM gives private actors a common target and supports sustainable use of outer space.
Problems
Tracking depends partly on foreign data and limited indigenous radars until NETRA facilities are built.
Active debris removal technologies are still at the precursor stage and lack legal clarity on ownership and liability.
Way forward
Build indigenous observation facilities under NETRA and tie private firms to DFSM through IN-SPACe.
Build international cooperation and norms on debris and active removal.
Put in your answer
SpaDeX: SpaDeX in 2025 showed docking and undocking, precursor skills for active debris removal.
Indian debris data: 129 trackable Indian-origin debris objects are in orbit as of March 2026.
On 18 March 2026, the Union Cabinet approved the Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojna (BHAVYA) with Rs.33,660 crore to develop 100 plug-and-play industrial parks across India.
What it is
The Board of Trade is the apex consultative body of the Department of Commerce. It brings together the Centre, States, Export Promotion Councils and industry to discuss trade policy. The BHAVYA Industrial Parks Scheme funds the development of industrial parks, with States taking part through rounds of selection.
Board of Trade
It is the apex consultative platform of the Department of Commerce, chaired by the Commerce Minister. Members include States, Export Promotion Councils, industry chambers and non-official members.
BHAVYA scheme
The scheme has an outlay of ₹33,660 crore to develop 100 industrial parks. Its first round is currently open to States.
USD 1 trillion target
The target is about USD 530 billion in merchandise and USD 470 billion in services exports.
DGTR
The Directorate General of Trade Remedies can recommend anti-dumping and safeguard measures for industries hurt by dumping or predatory pricing. It runs outreach such as Jan Sunwai.
Aim and outlay
Cabinet approved the scheme with an outlay of ₹33,660 crore to build 100 industrial parks over six years.
Implementing agency
NICDC is the Project Management Agency, responsible for implementation and monitoring, and built the BHAVYA Portal.
Centre-State model
States provide the land. The Centre supports infrastructure through NICDC, which partners with States under a 51:49 model.
Park sizes
Parks start at 25 acres in hilly areas, smaller UTs and the Northeast, run to 100-500 acres in mid-sized States, and reach up to 1,000 acres near cities.
Selection phases
Applications from 1 June to 31 July are considered for the first 20 parks. A further 30 parks follow from applications up to 30 September.
Portal function
The portal handles DPR submission, appraisal and real-time monitoring, and supports the challenge-based selection.
Scale and period
100 industrial parks over six years, 2026-27 to 2031-32, with an outlay of about ₹33,660 crore.
First phase
Up to 50 parks will be taken up through a challenge-based competitive selection.
Implementation vehicle
Projects are executed by SPVs incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013.
Funding form and agency
Assistance is equity contribution linked to the value of land transferred to the SPV and to milestones. NICDC is the Project Management Agency.
Oversight
The National Level Steering Committee is chaired by the Secretary, DPIIT; GIS-based monitoring is used.
Target
BHAVYA aims at 100 plug-and-play industrial parks.
Park features
Parks have pre-approved land, ready infrastructure, integrated services and single-window systems.
Link to PM GatiShakti
Parks are aligned with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, focusing on multimodal connectivity and last-mile access.
NICDC's current work
NICDC is implementing 20 projects across 13 states and is Project Management Agency for seven PM MITRA Parks.
Outlay and target
Rs.33,660 crore for developing 100 plug-and-play industrial parks.
External infrastructure
Support for external connectivity infrastructure up to 25% of project cost.
Selection
Projects are chosen through challenge mode, favouring reform-oriented, investment-ready proposals.
Design principles
Parks follow PM GatiShakti principles and use underground utility corridors (no-dig environment).
NICDC
NICDC under DPIIT is implementing 20 projects across 13 states.
Don’t confuse with Export Promotion Mission vs Districts as Export Hubs: The Mission is a ₹25,000 crore financial support scheme for exporters. Districts as Export Hubs is an initiative to build export capacity at district level, now with a 90-day drive in 120 districts.
Don’t confuse with Anti-dumping duty vs safeguard duty: Anti-dumping duty counters unfairly priced imports from specific countries. Safeguard duty counters a sudden import surge, whatever the source, and needs no unfair practice.
Don’t confuse with BHAVYA vs Board of Trade: BHAVYA is an industrial parks scheme. The Board of Trade is a consultative body on trade policy under the Department of Commerce.
Don’t confuse with DPIIT vs NICDC: DPIIT issued the operational guidelines. NICDC is the Project Management Agency that implements and monitors the scheme.
Don’t confuse with NICDC vs DPIIT: DPIIT is the ministry department that frames the scheme; NICDC is the agency that manages and monitors it.
Don’t confuse with BHAVYA vs PM MITRA: BHAVYA covers 100 general industrial parks via NICDC; PM MITRA parks are textile-specific under the Ministry of Textiles, with NICDC as project management agency.
Don’t confuse with NICDC vs NICDP: NICDC is the company implementing; NICDP is the programme for industrial corridors.
Don’t confuse with BHAVYA vs NICDP: NICDP builds greenfield Industrial Smart Cities along corridors through NICDC; BHAVYA funds plug-and-play parks in all States through challenge mode.
Economy terms and data: 42 Prelims questions since 2013, rising in recent years; they test what a term or instrument means. In Mains, 12 news-triggered questions.
Why it matters
A coordinated Centre-State push can lift exports toward the USD 1 trillion target.
Support for MSMEs through certification and market-access finance widens the exporter base.
Plug-and-play parks with land, power, water and single-window clearance can cut the time to start operations and attract investment.
The competitive model among States strengthens Centre-State partnership and supports job creation and manufacturing.
Plug-and-play parks with logistics and utilities can cut costs and attract manufacturing investment.
Supports Make in India, PM Gati Shakti, jobs and integration with global value chains.
Ready land and single-window approvals can cut delays and costs for manufacturers, aiding ease of doing business.
Parks across regions can spread industrial growth and jobs beyond existing hubs.
Ready industrial land and infrastructure cut entry barriers and costs for manufacturers and MSMEs.
Cluster-based parks can create jobs and spread industrial growth across regions.
Problems
States differ in how quickly they notify labour rules and align their incentives with Central schemes.
Global tariff changes, freight disruptions and weak demand can hurt export growth.
State capacity to prepare strong proposals and supply land may vary, so weaker States may lag in a competitive model.
Timely environmental clearances and utility connectivity are needed for the parks to be investment-ready.
Land acquisition and State-level delays can slow park development.
Equity linked to land and milestones depends on SPV capacity and private developer discipline.
Land availability and timely utilities and connectivity at many sites.
Demand for plots and coordination with States may vary across regions.
Land acquisition and State-level approval delays may slow parks.
Parks may stay underused without reliable external connectivity and demand.
Way forward
Set up State export committees with monthly district-level reviews.
Expand testing and certification labs to cut compliance costs for MSMEs.
Give handholding to less-developed and smaller States so that selection stays balanced.
Use the portal's real-time monitoring to track progress and adjust later phases from early experience.
Use transparent challenge-based selection and GIS-based monitoring to enforce milestones.
Converge with logistics, skilling and renewable energy schemes so parks get connected infrastructure.
Tie parks to PM GatiShakti planning and States' single-window systems.
Track timelines and occupancy publicly, with State coordination.
Use challenge mode to reward States that reform land and approval systems.
Link parks with PM GatiShakti planning for logistics and power.
Put in your answer
Districts as Export Hubs drive: A 90-day drive covers 120 priority districts across 27 States and UTs, linked to One District One Product and GI products.
BHAVYA outlay and target: ₹33,660 crore for 100 industrial parks over six years, as an example of Centre-State industrial infrastructure planning.
Competitive federalism: States compete through challenge-based proposals, with land from States and 51:49 partnership with NICDC.
BHAVYA outlay and scale: 100 parks, about ₹33,660 crore, 2026-27 to 2031-32.
Private participation: Private developers can take part through project-specific SPVs with governance and accountability safeguards.
NICDC progress: NICDC is implementing 20 projects across 13 states in greenfield industrial smart cities.
Industrial nodes: Dholera, Shendra-Bidkin, Vikram Udyogpuri and Greater Noida are NICDC industrial nodes.
NICDC projects: NICDC is implementing 20 projects across 13 states, the base on which BHAVYA builds.
UPSC’s own questions that come close to this issue, from our Prelims and Mains banks.
Test yourself
Prelims practice · Statements
Ours, not from a UPSC paper
Consider the following statements:
1.BHAVYA is a Central Sector Scheme implemented by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade.
2.In the first phase of the scheme, all 100 industrial parks will be selected through a challenge-based competitive process.
3.Projects under the scheme are implemented through Special Purpose Vehicles incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
True or false?
1 of 18
Statements the way Prelims prints them. Say first, then see the fact.
1.BHAVYA is a Central Sector Scheme implemented by DPIIT.
True. It is a Central Sector Scheme of DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
2.The scheme provides for 100 industrial parks over six years from 2026-27 to 2031-32.
True. 100 parks, six years, 2026-27 to 2031-32.
3.The minimum land requirement for a park is 100 acres for non-hilly states and 25 acres for hilly and northeastern states.
True. 100 acres for non-hilly states; 25 acres for hilly, NE states, UTs and smaller states.
4.The National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation is the Project Management Agency for the scheme.
True. NICDC is the Project Management Agency.
5.The National Level Steering Committee for the scheme is chaired by the Union Commerce Minister.
False. It is chaired by the Secretary, DPIIT.
6.NICDC functions under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade.
True. NICDC is under DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
7.The BHAVYA scheme aims to develop 100 plug-and-play industrial parks.
True. The target is 100 parks.
8.BHAVYA industrial parks are aligned with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan.
True. They are aligned with PM GatiShakti, emphasising multimodal connectivity.
9.NICDC is the Project Management Agency for PM MITRA Parks under the Ministry of Textiles.
True. NICDC acts as PMA for seven PM MITRA Parks.
10.BHAVYA is implemented by the Ministry of MSME through the Small Industries Development Bank of India.
False. NICDC under DPIIT, Commerce Ministry, anchors it.
11.NICDC is currently implementing projects in all States and Union Territories of India.
False. It is implementing 20 projects across 13 states.
12.BHAVYA is implemented under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme.
True. BHAVYA falls under NICDP.
13.BHAVYA provides for the development of 100 plug-and-play industrial parks.
True. The scheme targets 100 parks.
14.Under BHAVYA, industrial parks of 100 to 1000 acres will be taken up for development.
True. Park size range is 100 to 1000 acres.
15.Projects under BHAVYA are selected on a first-come-first-served basis by the Centre.
False. Selection is through challenge mode, favouring reform-oriented, investment-ready proposals.
16.The financial support under BHAVYA can cover worker housing and other social infrastructure.
True. Social infrastructure such as worker housing is eligible.
17.BHAVYA is limited to States with existing industrial corridors.
False. The scheme extends to all States and Union Territories.
18.The industrial parks under BHAVYA are to be aligned with the PM GatiShakti principles.
True. Alignment with PM GatiShakti is a design principle.
Written by us from the release, not by UPSC; checked by a second model.
Mains practice
10 marks · 150 words
The Government has released operational guidelines for the BHAVYA Scheme to develop 100 industrial parks with an outlay of about ₹33,660 crore over 2026-27 to 2031-32. Discuss the main provisions of the scheme and examine its significance and the challenges in its implementation for India's manufacturing sector.
GS2 Welfare schemesGS3 Rural water supplyPrelims and Mains
Why in news
On 18 March 2026, Uttar Pradesh signed a Reform-Linked MoU under Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 with the Ministry of Jal Shakti. Under the MoU, completed piped water schemes must be handed over to Gram Panchayats through Jal Arpan.
What it is
Jal Jeevan Mission is the Centre's flagship scheme, run by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, to give every rural household a tap water connection. Jal Arpan is a reform under it: the formal handover of completed water supply schemes to Gram Panchayats and Village Water and Sanitation Committees for operation and maintenance.
Jal Arpan
Formal handover of completed rural water supply schemes to Gram Panchayats and VWSCs, after a prescribed trial run period.
Coverage
More than 15.96 crore rural households, over 82% of rural households, have tap connections.
Jal Arpan module
Developed by the Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation; keeps a digital record of scheme handover.
Sujalam Bharat
Geotagging of water supply assets and sources under JJM 2.0 to build a digital inventory.
Launch
Jal Jeevan Mission was launched in August 2019 with the target of tap water to all rural households by 2024.
Summit dates and venue
The first Departmental Summit is on 1-2 September 2026 at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, New Delhi.
Purpose of the summit model
It is a new platform to strengthen cooperative federalism through Centre-State collaboration. It is the first of a series of such summits.
Four thematic pillars
Timely implementation of water infrastructure projects, Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari-Catch the Rain, source sustainability of drinking water, and operation and maintenance of rural water supply under Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0.
Who attends
Political leaders and senior officials from the Union and State Governments take part.
Outcome presentation
States will present outcomes and action plans to the Prime Minister in the valedictory session.
Nodal ministry
Jal Jeevan Mission is implemented by the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
JJM 2.0 approval
JJM 2.0 was approved on 10 March 2026. Its strategy centres on source sustainability, groundwater recharge and greywater management.
Water security in the VB-G RAM G Act
The VB-G RAM G Act, 2025 names water security as one of its four thematic focus areas.
SBM(G) 2.0 focus
SBM(G) 2.0 focuses on scientific management of solid and liquid waste.
Planning vehicle
Convergence is to be done through Viksit Gram Panchayat Plans, aligned with Village Action Plans under JJM 2.0 and SBM-G 2.0.
Geo-tagging and tools
Works must be registered and geo-tagged on the Viksit Bharat National Rural Infrastructure Stack. States are to use tools such as Yuktdhara, water budgeting and hydrogeological assessments.
Institutional step
The officer in charge of Rural Water Supply or the Public Health Engineering Department is to join the State-level Steering Committee under the Act.
Launch and aim
Launched on 15 August 2019 to give every rural household a functional tap connection on a regular, long-term basis.
Service standard
The Mission targets 55 litres per capita per day of water meeting the BIS 10500 standard, at affordable service charges.
Har Ghar Jal certification
188 districts, 1,090 blocks, 1.01 lakh Gram Panchayats and 2.04 lakh villages are certified Har Ghar Jal.
Extension
The Union Government has extended the Mission till December 2028.
Signatories
MoUs were signed with four States (Arunachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, Nagaland) and one UT (Puducherry).
Model mandated
The MoU requires a Gram Panchayat-led, service-based and community-centred model of rural water governance.
JJM 2.0 priorities
Focus is on sustaining infrastructure, tap functionality, water quality, source sustainability, O&M, community ownership and regular monitoring.
Institutions
Collectors are to hold regular District Water and Sanitation Mission meetings, which help prepare Village Action Plans and certify Panchayats as capable institutions.
Conditions before fund release
States must sign the MoU, get schemes validated against the Sujalam Bharat GIS-linked Asset Registry, certify compliance with CPHEEO design norms, and reconcile expenditure financially.
Jal Utsav
A three-tier annual community campaign: Jal Mahotsav nationally, Rajya Jal Utsav or Nadi Utsav in States, and Lok Jal Utsav at Gram Panchayat level.
MoU count
Meghalaya is the twelfth State to sign a Reform-Linked MoU under JJM 2.0.
Cabinet approval
JJM 2.0 was approved by the Union Cabinet on 10 March 2026.
Extended deadline
The original deadline of May 2024 has been extended to December 2028.
Outlay
The Cabinet approved an additional outlay of ₹1.51 lakh crore for the Mission.
Local role
Gram Panchayats and VWSCs are to manage and operate in-village water supply systems; District Water Sanitation Missions prepare village action plans and issue panchayat certifications.
Implementing ministry
JJM is implemented by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti.
Jal Mahotsav 2026
A 15-day nationwide campaign from 8 March (International Women's Day) to 22 March (World Water Day), with Jal Arpan of assets to Gram Panchayats.
Key reform areas
Assured service delivery with defined performance standards, clear accountability at State, district and Gram Panchayat levels, and long-term sustainability through source protection.
Implementing body
JJM is implemented by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti, jointly with States.
New end date
The Mission is extended up to December 2028 with a higher financial outlay.
MoU model
The MoU mandates a Gram Panchayat-led, service-based, community-centred model of rural water governance.
Implementing department
The Mission is run by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, through the National Jal Jeevan Mission.
Original launch
JJM was launched in 2019 with the aim of tap water to every rural household by 2024.
Funding pattern
JJM is a centrally sponsored scheme; the Centre-State share is 90:10 for Himalayan and North-Eastern States, 50:50 for other States.
Start and aim
Running since August 2019, JJM aims at assured tap water to every rural household in partnership with States.
Extended phase
The extended phase focuses on infrastructure quality and O&M through Jan Bhagidhari, with separate MoUs signed with States/UTs.
Functionality assessment 2024
An independent third-party assessment found 76% of household tap connections functional, judged on quantity, quality and regularity.
Federal division
Drinking water is a state subject; States handle planning, approval, implementation and O&M, and the Centre gives technical and financial help.
Reform areas in MoU
The reform-linked MoU covers 11 structural reform areas, including institutional architecture, service utility framework, water quality governance and source sustainability.
Jal Arpan condition
A key MoU condition is that completed piped schemes be handed over to Gram Panchayats/VWSCs and the community through Jal Arpan.
Decision Support System
The MoU provides for the DSS platform, developed by DDWS, as a digital planning tool at district and GP levels for source sustainability, integrated with Sujalam Bharat and national water datasets.
Mission extension
JJM has been extended till December 2028 with an enhanced outlay.
Reform areas
The MoU covers 11 structural reform areas, such as service utility framework, water quality governance and source sustainability.
Sujal Gaon ID
A scheme-based unique digital identifier for mapping rural piped water supply assets. 1.64 lakh IDs are created across 31 States/UTs, linked to 67,000 Sujalam Bharat IDs.
Conditions for central funds
Central funds depend on four requirements: signing the MoU, creating Sujal Gaon IDs, timely financial reconciliation, and notifying State O&M policies.
Funding modes
Upfront payment, reimbursement and Viability Gap Funding (for annuity-based PPP models in BWSs). No central help for retrofitting schemes.
Har Ghar Jal declaration
A Gram Panchayat can declare itself Har Ghar Jal only after the State has set up adequate in-village operation and maintenance mechanisms.
Target and MoUs
All 19.36 crore rural households are to get tap connections by December 2028, with separate MoUs with States/UTs.
Water quality standard
BIS:10500 is the benchmark for water supplied under JJM; arsenic and fluoride affected habitations get priority.
Quality monitoring funds
States/UTs can use up to 2% of their annual JJM allocation for water quality monitoring and surveillance.
Nal Jal Mitra
Nal Jal Mitra Programme, run with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, trains villagers as scheme operators and for minor repairs.
Implementing agency
The scheme is run by the Ministry of Jal Shakti through its Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation.
Don’t confuse with Jal Jeevan Mission vs Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT): JJM targets rural household tap connections; AMRUT covers urban water supply and sewerage.
Don’t confuse with Jal Jeevan Mission vs Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen): JJM is for drinking water supply; SBM-G is for sanitation. Both run under the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation.
Don’t confuse with Jal Arpan vs Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari: Jal Arpan hands over completed water supply schemes to local bodies for operation and maintenance. Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari is a community-participation drive on water conservation and rainwater harvesting.
Don’t confuse with JJM vs SBM(G): JJM provides tap water to rural homes. SBM(G) deals with rural sanitation and waste management. Both are run by DDWS.
Don’t confuse with Jal Arpan vs JJM: Jal Arpan is only the handover of completed schemes for operation and maintenance. JJM is the whole mission.
Don’t confuse with Jal Jeevan Mission vs Jal Jal Shakti Abhiyan: JJM provides household tap connections in rural areas. Jal Shakti Abhiyan is a water conservation and rainwater harvesting campaign.
Don’t confuse with JJM vs Swajaldhara/NRDWP: Earlier programmes such as Swajaldhara and NRDWP focused on habitation-level coverage; JJM targets household tap service delivery.
Don’t confuse with Jal Arpan vs Jal Sankalp: Jal Arpan is the formal handover of water assets to Gram Panchayats. Jal Sankalp is Arunachal Pradesh's gap-funding effort for source sustainability.
Don’t confuse with Jal Arpan vs Jal Utsav: Jal Arpan is the commissioning and formal handover of schemes to Gram Panchayats and VWSCs. Jal Utsav is an annual community campaign for maintenance and review.
Don’t confuse with Sujalam Bharat vs Meri Panchayat: Sujalam Bharat is the digital asset and service-area mapping framework. Meri Panchayat is the application that reflects citizen feedback from Jal Seva Aankalan.
Don’t confuse with Jal Jeevan Mission vs Jal Sanchay: JJM provides tap water to rural homes; Jal Sanchay is the water conservation push that supports source sustainability.
Don’t confuse with Jal Jeevan Mission vs AMRUT: JJM covers rural households; AMRUT focuses on urban water supply and sewerage.
Don’t confuse with Jal Arpan vs Jal Mahotsav: Jal Arpan is the handover of water assets to local bodies; Jal Mahotsav is a community campaign during which such handovers were held.
Don’t confuse with Jal Jeevan Mission vs Jal Shakti Abhiyan: JJM is a tap connection scheme; Jal Shakti Abhiyan is a water conservation campaign.
Don’t confuse with Jal Shakti Abhiyan vs Jal Jeevan Mission: Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain is a water conservation campaign for source sustainability; JJM is the tap connection scheme.
Don’t confuse with Jal Seva Aankalan vs Jal Arpan: Jal Seva Aankalan records service delivery responses at GP level. Jal Arpan is the handover of schemes.
Don’t confuse with Sujal Gaon ID vs Sujalam Bharat ID: Sujal Gaon ID identifies a scheme. Each Sujalam Bharat ID combines a scheme's infrastructure ID and service area ID, and Sujalam Bharat is the wider national digital architecture.
Don’t confuse with Jal Jeevan Mission vs Jal Arpan: JJM is the overall scheme for rural tap connections; Jal Arpan is a reform under it for handing over completed schemes to GPs/VWSCs.
Don’t confuse with JJM vs Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin): JJM provides piped drinking water; SBM (Gramin) is the sanitation programme, with which JJM converges for grey-water reuse.
Schemes: 52 Prelims questions since 2013, 10 in Prelims 2026 alone. They test features, the period and who funds it. In Mains, 33 news-triggered questions, mostly GS3.
Why it matters
Handing schemes to Gram Panchayats and VWSCs builds community ownership and supports the 73rd Amendment's local self-governance.
Geotagging and digital records improve monitoring and planning of rural water assets.
Institutionalises Centre-State dialogue on water, a State subject, supporting cooperative federalism.
Focus on operation and maintenance and source sustainability addresses the gap between creating tap connections and delivering reliable water.
Joint planning of water, sanitation and livelihood works can cut duplication and make better use of funds.
Source sustainability and groundwater recharge work can make tap water services last.
Reduces women's and girls' time spent fetching water, aiding health, education and livelihoods.
Moves rural water policy from creating assets to delivering a regular service.
Moves the mission from asset creation to reliable, accountable service delivery.
Strengthens decentralised governance by giving Gram Panchayats and VWSCs charge of O&M.
Linking funds to MoUs, validation and reconciliation brings accountability and performance-based release.
Focus on O&M and community ownership aims at lasting service, not just connections.
Shifts focus from building pipelines to sustainable service delivery.
Strengthens decentralisation by giving Gram Panchayats and VWSCs charge of operation and maintenance.
Shifts focus from building pipes to reliable, safe water, which supports health, hygiene and women's time savings.
Reform-linked MoUs bind States to accountability, strengthening cooperative federalism.
Shifts focus from creating pipelines to assured, regular, quality service.
Strengthens Panchayats and community ownership in water management, advancing decentralisation.
Tap water at home reduces the time women spend fetching water and lowers waterborne disease.
Cuts across health, gender and rural development goals, and supports SDG 6.
Shifts focus from building taps to assured service delivery, quality and long-term sustainability.
Gram Panchayat-led management gives local bodies ownership of water assets.
Shifts the Mission from creating tap connections to assured, lasting service delivery.
Gives Gram Panchayats and communities ownership of rural water systems.
Digital IDs enable source-to-tap tracking, real-time monitoring and transparency.
Conditional, milestone-based funding ties central money to State reforms and long-term service delivery.
Shifts focus from building pipes to reliable service delivery, aiming at assured 24x7 rural supply.
Reduces women's drudgery and improves health, with women and girls the main beneficiaries.
Tap water at home cuts the drudgery of fetching water, which falls mostly on women.
Safe supply in arsenic and fluoride areas reduces waterborne disease and health costs.
Community ownership through GPs and VWSCs builds local self-government.
Problems
Gram Panchayats may lack technical skills and funds to run and maintain schemes.
Source sustainability and water quality (contamination) remain concerns even after tap connections.
Water is a State subject, so outcomes depend on State follow-through; summit commitments are not binding.
Weak source sustainability, groundwater depletion and thin local capacity for operation and maintenance can leave connections without water.
Several departments and levels of government must coordinate, and capacity at Gram Panchayat level is uneven.
Source depletion and poor operation and maintenance can undercut tap connections.
Sustaining sources and keeping schemes functional after tap connections are installed.
Ensuring water quality and community capacity to operate and maintain systems.
Local bodies may lack technical skills and funds to run and maintain schemes.
Source sustainability and water quality (arsenic, fluoride) need continuous monitoring.
Weak capacity and finances of Gram Panchayats to run and maintain schemes.
Source sustainability and water quality, especially in water-scarce and varied hydro-geological areas.
Water is a State subject, so delivery depends on State capacity and accountability; delays have arisen from technical shortcomings.
Oversized or non-compliant works raise costs, and States must bear that expenditure.
Sustaining operation and maintenance and source sustainability after handover, with weak Gram Panchayat finances and capacity.
Last-mile coverage of the remaining households and ensuring water quality and State-wise delivery.
Water source sustainability and groundwater depletion threaten long-term supply.
Reported connections may not mean regular, quality-assured supply; functionality must be checked.
Weak capacity of Gram Panchayats for operation, maintenance and tariff collection; Central outlay is almost used up.
Way forward
Train and fund VWSCs, with user charges for operation and maintenance.
Strengthen source recharge and regular quality testing, with women-led surveillance.
Set time-bound, monitored targets for agreed action points, with digital monitoring and regular review.
Strengthen Gram Panchayats and Village Water and Sanitation Committees with funds, training and tariff support for asset management.
Build Gram Panchayat capacity for planning, water budgeting and asset upkeep.
Use geo-tagged data to monitor assets and check that convergent works are completed.
Strengthen source sustainability through groundwater recharge and rainwater harvesting.
Build Gram Panchayat and VWSC capacity, with regular water quality testing and surveillance.
Notify State O&M policies and certify Panchayats as capable institutions.
Invest in spring rejuvenation, rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge and community water quality monitoring.
Build Gram Panchayat and VWSC capacity for O&M and tariff or financing arrangements.
Use Sujalam Bharat data and Jal Seva Aankalan feedback to monitor and fix service gaps.
Link JJM with MGNREGA and conservation works to strengthen water sources.
Enforce accountability measures in the MoUs and build local capacity.
Ensure Gram Panchayats and VWSCs are trained and funded to run schemes, with defined performance standards.
Link supply with source protection, rainwater harvesting, grey water reuse and aquifer recharge, backed by technology-based monitoring.
Build Panchayat capacity and allow user charges with support for poor households.
Strengthen source recharge, quality testing and third-party audit of assets.
Shift to O&M and sustainability through community ownership (Jan Bhagidhari, Jal Arpan) and State MoUs.
Strengthen source sustainability, monitoring through IoT sensors and dashboards, and local skills such as Nal Jal Mitra.
Build GP capacity and skilling, and ensure sound operational and financial models such as user charges.
Use digital tools like DSS and citizen feedback to track service delivery and source health.
Train and fund GPs and VWSCs, and set up service utility arrangements.
Use digital tools like the DSS and citizen feedback to track quality and sources.
Strengthen Gram Panchayat-led O&M, source sustainability and recharge, and community oversight.
Enforce technical specifications, financial reconciliation and quality checks through the State MoUs.
Strengthen GPs and VWSCs with training, tariff or user-charge systems and funds for upkeep.
Use digital mapping and monitoring for accountability, and converge with groundwater recharge and source-sustainability programmes.
Strengthen source recharge by converging with watershed, MGNREGA-type and Finance Commission funds.
Train and pay local operators such as Nal Jal Mitras and enforce independent quality testing with public data.
Secure enhanced funding for extension to 2028 and link it to service-delivery outcomes.
Put in your answer
JJM coverage: Over 15.96 crore rural households (82%+) have tap connections.
Geotagging: 2,691 water supply assets, including around 700 sources, were geotagged on the day.
Departmental Summit as cooperative federalism example: A new Centre-State platform where States present action plans to the Prime Minister, for answers on cooperative federalism and governance.
Community-led water governance: Discussions cover asset management and strengthening community-led water governance, useful for answers on decentralised service delivery.
Convergence tools: Geo-tagging on the Viksit Bharat National Rural Infrastructure Stack and geospatial planning tools such as Yuktdhara are named for convergent planning.
Local planning example: Viksit Gram Panchayat Plans are the unit for integrated planning of water security.
Community role: Gram Panchayats, VWSCs and Self-Help Groups are meant to manage and sustain rural water supply assets.
Reform-linked MoUs: Use as an example of cooperative federalism tied to governance reforms and community ownership.
Arunachal catchment law: Arunachal Pradesh has an Act for protection and management of drinking water catchment areas, with community participation.
Compliance-linked release: ₹1,561.53 crore went to five States, the first performance-based, compliance-linked release.
Extended timeline: JJM deadline extended from May 2024 to December 2028.
Meghalaya example: Meghalaya, once among the lowest in rural tap coverage, reached 83.59% coverage.
Community-managed example: Tepla village in Ambala collects ₹40 per household per month as user charges for operation and maintenance.
Reform-linked MoU: Centre-State MoUs tie JJM 2.0 to Panchayat-led O&M reforms, an example of cooperative federalism.
Jan Bhagidari: The MoU seeks stronger community participation (Jan Bhagidari) for sustainable operation and maintenance of rural water supply.
Functionality gap: The 2024 assessment found 76% of tap connections functional on quantity, quality and regularity.
Health benefit claim: The Minister cited a WHO study that universal household tap water could prevent close to 4 lakh diarrhoeal deaths annually.
Reform-linked federal model: The MoU ties Centre-State cooperation to 11 structural reforms, an example of conditional cooperative federalism.
Community model: The MoU mandates a Gram Panchayat-led, service-based, community-centred model of rural water governance.
Cooperative federalism example: State-specific MoUs with conditional, milestone-based central funding show how the Centre links funds to reforms.
WHO health estimate: WHO estimated 5.5 crore hours saved daily for women and 400,000 diarrhoeal deaths prevented.
Jal Arpan handbook: A 15-day trial run with GP and VWSC members precedes handover of schemes, supported by dashboards and Jal Seva Ankalan.
UPSC’s own questions that come close to this issue, from our Prelims and Mains banks.
Test yourself
Prelims practice · Single answer
Ours, not from a UPSC paper
Consider the following statements about the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) and Jal Arpan:
1. Jal Arpan is the formal handover of completed rural water supply schemes to Gram Panchayats and Village Water and Sanitation Committees.
2. The Jal Arpan digital module was developed by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation.
3. Under JJM 2.0, Sujalam Bharat is used for geotagging of water supply assets and sources.
4. Jal Jeevan Mission is implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development.
5. Jal Jeevan Mission was launched in 2014.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
True or false?
1 of 56
Statements the way Prelims prints them. Say first, then see the fact.
1.Jal Arpan involves the formal handover of completed rural water supply schemes to Gram Panchayats and Village Water and Sanitation Committees.
True. Handover to GPs and VWSCs for operation and maintenance.
2.The Jal Arpan digital module was developed by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation.
True. Developed by the Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation.
3.Under Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0, Sujalam Bharat is used for geotagging of rural water supply assets.
True. Sujalam Bharat geotags water supply assets and sources.
4.Water quality testing demonstrations during Jal Arpan used Field Test Kits.
True. Demonstrations used Field Test Kits (FTKs).
5.Jal Jeevan Mission is implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development.
False. It is implemented by the Ministry of Jal Shakti (Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation).
6.Jal Jeevan Mission was launched in 2014 to provide tap water to every rural household.
False. It was launched in August 2019.
7.The Jal Arpan module now provides Har Ghar Jal certificates only in Hindi and English.
False. It provides them in Hindi, English and 17 other regional languages.
8.Jal Jeevan Mission was launched in August 2019 and is implemented by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation under the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
True. JJM began in August 2019 under the DDWS, Ministry of Jal Shakti.
9.JJM 2.0 shifts the mission from an infrastructure-centric approach to a service delivery model.
True. The restructuring moves from infrastructure to service delivery.
10.Under JJM 2.0, States can receive funds without signing any MoU, as long as the schemes are completed.
False. Signing the reform-linked MoU is a mandatory condition for fund release.
11.Schemes are validated against the Sujalam Bharat GIS-linked Asset Registry before funds are released to States.
True. Scheme validation against the Sujalam Bharat registry is one of the conditions.
12.Jal Utsav is organised in three tiers, with Lok Jal Utsav held at the State level.
False. Lok Jal Utsav is at the Gram Panchayat level; the State level is Rajya Jal Utsav or Nadi Utsav.
13.Meghalaya is the twelfth State to sign a Reform-Linked MoU under Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0.
True. Meghalaya is the twelfth State to sign.
14.Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 was approved by the Union Cabinet in March 2026.
True. Approved on 10 March 2026.
15.The Cabinet has approved an additional outlay of ₹1.51 lakh crore for the Mission.
True. Additional outlay is ₹1.51 lakh crore.
16.Under the reform-linked MoU, District Water Sanitation Missions are headed by the State Water Resources Secretary.
False. DWSMs are headed by district administrations.
17.Jal Jeevan Mission is implemented by the Ministry of Jal Shakti through its Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation.
True. DDWS under the Ministry of Jal Shakti runs it.
18.Jal Jeevan Mission has been extended till December 2028 with the approval of the Cabinet.
True. Extension to December 2028 was approved by the Cabinet.
19.Jal Mahotsav 2026 was a 15-day campaign running from International Women's Day to World Water Day.
True. 8 March to 22 March 2026.
20.JJM 2.0 aims to move from a service-delivery approach to an infrastructure-creation approach.
False. It moves from infrastructure creation to a service-delivery-oriented model.
21.The Guidelines say source sustainability is secondary to service delivery, so convergence on water conservation is optional.
False. The Guidelines say without source sustainability services cannot be reliable, and call for convergence on conservation, rainwater harvesting, grey water management and aquifer recharge.
22.The Union Cabinet approved Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 on 10 March 2026.
True. Cabinet approval was on 10 March 2026, before the MoUs.
23.Under JJM 2.0 the Mission period has been extended up to December 2028.
True. The extension runs to December 2028 with a higher outlay.
24.The reform-linked MoU mandates a Gram Panchayat-led, service-based model of rural water governance.
True. The MoU mandates a Gram Panchayat-led, service-based, community-centred model.
25.Jal Jeevan Mission was launched in 2019.
True. JJM was launched in August 2019.
26.The MoUs under JJM 2.0 were signed with Gujarat, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh and Goa.
True. These five States signed on 20 March 2026.
27.Jal Jeevan Mission has been implemented since August 2019 by the Centre in partnership with States.
True. The Mission began in August 2019 as a Centre-State partnership.
28.At the start of the Mission, about half of rural households had tap water connections.
False. Only 3.23 crore households (16.7%) had tap connections at the start.
29.Under JJM, responsibility for operation and maintenance of drinking water schemes lies with the State/UT governments.
True. Drinking water is a state subject; planning, implementation and O&M lie with States/UTs.
30.The functionality assessment of tap connections under JJM is carried out by an independent third-party agency selected on standard statistical sampling.
True. The Department uses an independent third-party agency for the assessment.
31.The 2024 Functionality Assessment judged tap connections functional on quantity, quality and regularity, and found about 76% functional.
True. 76% of connections were functional on these three parameters.
32.Jal Jeevan Mission is administered by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
False. It is run by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti.
33.Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 was approved by the Union Cabinet on 10 March 2026.
True. Cabinet approval was on 10 March 2026.
34.The reform-linked MoU signed by Uttar Pradesh covers 11 key structural reform areas.
True. The MoU covers 11 reform areas.
35.Under the MoU, completed piped water schemes are to be handed over to Gram Panchayats or Village Water and Sanitation Committees through the Jal Arpan process.
True. Jal Arpan is the handover process to GPs/VWSCs.
36.The Decision Support System platform under the MoU was developed by the NITI Aayog for planning at district and GP levels.
False. The DSS platform was developed by DDWS.
37.Jal Utsav is a two-tier annual campaign held only at the national and State levels.
False. Jal Utsav has three tiers: national, State and Gram Panchayat.
38.Jal Jeevan Mission has been extended till December 2028 with an enhanced outlay.
True. The extension runs till December 2028.
39.Under the MoU, completed piped water supply schemes are to be handed over to Gram Panchayats and VWSCs through the Jal Arpan process.
True. Jal Arpan is the handover process to GPs/VWSCs.
40.The Decision Support System platform was developed by the Ministry of Rural Development.
False. It was developed by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS).
41.Jal Utsav includes Lok Jal Utsav at the Gram Panchayat level.
True. Lok Jal Utsav is the GP-level tier.
42.Jal Jeevan Mission is implemented by the Ministry of Jal Shakti through the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation.
True. DDWS under the Ministry of Jal Shakti runs JJM.
43.Jal Seva Aankalan is a Union-level audit carried out by the Ministry, with results published on the Jal Shakti portal.
False. Jal Seva Aankalan is undertaken at Gram Panchayat level, with outcomes shown to citizens through the Meri Panchayat Application.
44.The Jal Jeevan Mission has been extended up to December 2028 under JJM 2.0.
True. Extension is up to December 2028.
45.A Gram Panchayat may declare itself 'Har Ghar Jal' as soon as pipelines are laid, without any check on maintenance arrangements.
False. It can declare so only after the State confirms adequate in-village operation and maintenance mechanisms.
46.The central assistance approved for JJM has been raised from Rs 2.08 lakh crore to Rs 3.59 lakh crore.
True. Central assistance rose from Rs 2.08 lakh crore to Rs 3.59 lakh crore.
47.Jal Utsav is a biennial event led by the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti to inaugurate new schemes.
False. Jal Utsav is an annual, community-led maintenance and review event.
48.In 2019, about 17 per cent of rural households had tap water connections, the baseline for JJM.
True. 3.23 crore households (17%) had tap water in 2019.
49.Jal Jeevan Mission is implemented by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
False. It is implemented by the Ministry of Jal Shakti (Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation).
50.Jal Jeevan Mission was launched in August 2019 to provide potable water to every rural household.
True. Launched August 2019 as Har Ghar Jal for rural households.
51.Under JJM, Gram Panchayats and Village Water and Sanitation Committees plan, implement, operate and maintain in-village water supply systems.
True. JJM is decentralised and community-managed, with GPs/VWSCs in charge of in-village systems.
52.Under JJM, the benchmark for quality of piped water is the standard set by the World Health Organization.
False. The benchmark is the Bureau of Indian Standards' BIS:10500.
53.States and UTs may use up to 2% of their annual JJM allocation for water quality monitoring and surveillance.
True. Up to 2% of annual allocation can go to WQM&S.
54.Under Jal Arpan, the handbook on community-managed piped water systems mandates a 15-day trial run involving GPs and VWSC members before handover.
True. A 15-day trial run is mandated before handover.
55.Since drinking water is a Union subject, the Centre alone funds and builds JJM schemes.
False. Drinking water is a State subject; the Centre supplements States with technical and financial help.
56.Community water purification plants under JJM are meant as an interim measure in arsenic and fluoride affected habitations until compliant piped schemes are commissioned.
True. CWPPs give 8-10 litres per capita per day for drinking and cooking till piped schemes start.
Written by us from the release, not by UPSC; checked by a second model.
Mains practice
15 marks · 250 words
The Union Cabinet has extended the Jal Jeevan Mission till December 2028, and Operational Guidelines for JJM 2.0 were released on World Water Day 2026, shifting the focus from creating infrastructure to service delivery and sustainability. Examine the key provisions of JJM 2.0 and discuss the challenges in ensuring long-term, reliable rural drinking water supply.
On 18 March 2026 the Union Cabinet approved the Small Hydro Power (SHP) Development Scheme for FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31, with an outlay of Rs 2,584.60 crore.
What it is
The scheme gives central financial assistance to small hydro projects of 1-25 MW capacity. It favours hilly and North Eastern states and border districts. It also funds detailed project reports to build a pipeline of future projects.
Outlay and target
Outlay of Rs 2,584.60 crore for about 1,500 MW of SHP capacity, for FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31.
Eligible capacity
Projects between 1 and 25 MW are supported.
CFA in North East and border districts
Rs 3.6 crore per MW or 30% of project cost, whichever is lower, capped at Rs 30 crore per project.
CFA in other states
Rs 2.4 crore per MW or 20% of project cost, whichever is lower, capped at Rs 20 crore per project.
Employment
The scheme will support 51 lakh person days of employment during construction.
Don’t confuse with Small hydro vs large hydro: This scheme covers 1-25 MW projects. Larger hydro projects fall under separate policies and are not covered here.
Schemes: 52 Prelims questions since 2013, 10 in Prelims 2026 alone. They test features, the period and who funds it. In Mains, 33 news-triggered questions, mostly GS3.
Why it matters
Taps hydro potential in remote hilly and border areas with little land acquisition or displacement.
Needs little transmission line, which cuts transmission losses, and creates local jobs.
Problems
Projects can face delays in clearances, land access and difficult terrain in remote areas.
Hydrological variability and climate risk can affect output.
Way forward
Speed up DPR preparation and single-window clearances so the pipeline turns into projects.
Strengthen state capacity and private investment through assured offtake.
Put in your answer
Investment expected: The scheme is likely to bring about Rs 15,000 crore of investment in the small hydro sector.
Project lifespan: SHP projects typically last 40 to over 60 years.
UPSC’s own questions that come close to this issue, from our Prelims and Mains banks.
Test yourself
Prelims practice · Statements
Ours, not from a UPSC paper
Consider the following statements:
1.The Small Hydro Power Development Scheme (2026-27 to 2030-31) supports small hydro projects with capacity between 1 MW and 25 MW.
2.Under the scheme, central financial assistance in North Eastern states and in districts with an international border is the lower of Rs 3.6 crore per MW or 30% of project cost, with a cap of Rs 30 crore per project.
3.In states other than the North Eastern states, central financial assistance under the scheme is capped at Rs 30 crore per project.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
True or false?
1 of 5
Statements the way Prelims prints them. Say first, then see the fact.
1.The scheme supports small hydro projects with capacity between 1 MW and 25 MW.
True. Eligible projects are 1-25 MW.
2.The scheme is meant to cover projects of about 1,500 MW in total over FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31.
True. Target is about 1,500 MW.
3.In North Eastern states, central assistance is the lower of Rs 3.6 crore per MW or 30% of project cost, capped at Rs 30 crore per project.
True. Rs 3.6 crore/MW or 30%, cap Rs 30 crore.
4.The higher rate of central assistance applies only to North Eastern states and not to districts with an international border elsewhere.
False. The higher rate also applies to districts with an international border.
5.The scheme provides funds to help prepare detailed project reports for about 200 projects.
True. Rs 30 crore for DPRs for about 200 projects.
Written by us from the release, not by UPSC; checked by a second model.
GS3 Agriculture: dairy cooperativesPrelims and Mains
Why in news
On 18 March 2026 the government told the Lok Sabha about White Revolution 2.0, which aims to set up 75,000 new dairy cooperative societies in five years, and listed the dairy schemes behind India's milk output.
What it is
White Revolution 2.0 is a dairy cooperative expansion programme run jointly by the Ministry of Cooperation and the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. It brings Panchayats without a dairy cooperative into the cooperative network. It builds on the Operation Flood model of farmer-owned dairy cooperatives.
Launch and ministries
Launched on 19 September 2024 by the Ministry of Cooperation and the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
Rashtriya Gokul Mission
Running since December 2014. It includes sex-sorted semen and IVF technology, and aims at conserving indigenous breeds and genetic upgradation of bovines.
NPDD digital tools
The National Programme for Dairy Development funds Data Processor and Automated Milk Collection Units. These enable digital records and direct bank payment to farmers.
AHIDF
The Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund gives 3% per annum interest subvention for livestock product processing and diversification infrastructure.
Cooperative membership
About 1.7 crore farmers are members of dairy cooperatives, nearly 38% of them women.
Don’t confuse with White Revolution 2.0 vs Operation Flood: Operation Flood (1970) was the original National Dairy Development Board-led dairy cooperative programme. White Revolution 2.0 (2024) is the new push to cover uncovered Panchayats.
Don’t confuse with NPDD vs RGM: NPDD builds milk testing, chilling and processing infrastructure and supports cooperatives. RGM focuses on indigenous breeds and cattle genetics.
Schemes: 52 Prelims questions since 2013, 10 in Prelims 2026 alone. They test features, the period and who funds it. In Mains, 33 news-triggered questions, mostly GS3.
Why it matters
Brings small and women farmers into organised markets and gives them a regular income.
Supports nutritional security and rural jobs through cooperative coverage of uncovered areas.
Problems
State targets are uneven, and the large numbers need fresh societies to remain viable.
Productivity gains must continue so the added cooperatives have enough milk to procure.
Way forward
Link new societies to chilling, testing and processing capacity, and to digital payment systems.
Train and finance women members and monitor milk procurement state by state.
Put in your answer
Productivity gain: Average cattle and buffalo productivity rose 36.63%, from 1648.17 kg per animal per year in 2013-14 to 2251 kg in 2024-25.
Global position: India has been the largest milk producer since 1998 and gives about 25% of global output.
Per capita availability: Per capita milk availability is 485 grams per day, above the ICMR recommended level.
UPSC’s own questions that come close to this issue, from our Prelims and Mains banks.
No practice question for this one; the card may still help an answer. Why: Lasting dairy cooperative scheme launched 19 September 2024 with a 75,000-society target. Few testable facts beyond that, so no question.
On 18 March 2026 the Panchayati Raj Ministry told the Rajya Sabha that devolution to panchayats depends on States. It cited its Devolution Index report (Feb 2025) and eGramSwaraj data.
What it is
The Devolution Index is part of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj report 'Status of Devolution to Panchayats in States - An Indicative Evidence-Based Ranking'. It scores and ranks States and UTs on how far powers, money and staff have actually been given to panchayats. Devolution rests on Article 243G, added by the 73rd Amendment, which lets State legislatures decide what panchayats do.
Constitutional basis
Article 243G lets a State legislature, by law, give panchayats powers and responsibilities for economic development and social justice plans and schemes, including Eleventh Schedule matters.
Six dimensions
The index scores States on Framework, Functions, Finances, Functionaries, Capacity Enhancement and Accountability.
Publisher and date
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj released the 2024 ranking report in February 2025.
Eleventh Schedule
It lists 29 subjects that State legislatures are to consider for devolution to panchayats.
State subject
Panchayats operate under State Panchayati Raj Acts, so devolution varies across States.
Part IX
Part IX of the Constitution (Articles 243 to 243O) deals with panchayats, inserted by the 73rd Amendment Act, 1992.
Don’t confuse with Article 243G vs Article 243ZD: 243G deals with powers and responsibilities of panchayats. 243ZD concerns district planning committees; 243ZE covers metropolitan planning.
Don’t confuse with Eleventh vs Twelfth Schedule: Eleventh Schedule lists 29 panchayat subjects. Twelfth Schedule lists 18 municipal subjects.
Reports and indices: 14 Prelims questions since 2013; they test who publishes a report and what it measures.
Why it matters
Shows how far panchayats truly hold powers, funds and staff, beyond the constitutional text.
Ranking can push States to compete on devolution.
Problems
Article 243G is enabling, so devolution is left to State legislatures and varies widely.
Gaps in plan uploads persist: 5,638 of 6,792 block plans were uploaded for 2025-26.
Way forward
States should devolve functions, funds and functionaries together, along with capacity building.
Use the index and eGramSwaraj data to monitor and reward progress.
Put in your answer
People's Plan Campaign: Running since 2018 as 'Sabki Yojana Sabka Vikas', it prepares evidence-based local plans with people's participation and supports Localized SDGs.
UPSC’s own questions that come close to this issue, from our Prelims and Mains banks.
No practice question for this one; the card may still help an answer. Why: Constitutional base (Article 243G, Eleventh Schedule's 29 subjects) is lasting, but the news itself adds little new for a question.
Worth revising until Prelims 2027: most news questions come within two years of the event.
Quick facts
MoSPI's accounts value pollination at about 8-10% of crop output value during 2012-13 to 2021-22.
ECI announced the schedule on 15 March 2026 for Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, with over 17.4 crore electors.
NAFIS, launched August 2022, holds about 1.26 crore fingerprint records; 7 CFSLs are operational under NFIES and 7 more are approved.
Prasar Bharati launched WAVES OTT in November 2024; it has over 84 lakh registered users.
Customs duty on nuclear fuels and reactor components is exempt up to 2035 to cut project and power costs.
63 lateral-entry appointments at Joint Secretary, Director and Deputy Secretary level have been made since 2018.
The August 2024 guidelines cut the CPGRAMS grievance redressal timeline from 30 days to 21 days.
MoSPI released SDG bulletins 'Planet in Focus' and 'Delivering Prosperity at Scale', based on the SDG National Indicator Framework Progress Report 2025.
Source: PIB, 18 Mar
What we left out: 99 of 119 releases
Speeches without a decision (7)
Routine ministry updates (34)
Consultations and webinars (5)
Same issue as another release (28)
Explainers repeating known data (2)
Condolences and ex-gratia (2)
Ceremonies and events (6)
Routine project approvals (4)
Greetings and messages (1)
Routine seizures and enforcement (1)
Visit schedules (2)
Internal campaigns (1)
Other releases (6)
Practise the day’s news
In UPSC’s formats, inside each issue. The answer and why come after you choose.