Introduction The PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PM FME) Scheme, launched in June 2020, is a flagship initiative under the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. It is a centrally sponsored scheme by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) that aims to enhance the competitiveness, capacity building, and formalization of the unorganized micro food processing sector in India. With a financial outlay of ₹10,000 crore over five years (2020-25), the scheme promotes One District One Product (ODOP) approach, credit-linked subsidies, and skill upgradation for individual micro-enterprises and SHGs/FPOs. Objectives of the PM FME Scheme Key Features of the PM FME Scheme Feature Description Tenure 2020–2025 Financial Outlay ₹10,000 crore (₹5,000 crore from Centre, ₹5,000 crore from States) Coverage All 35 States and UTs Approach One District One Product (ODOP) Implementation Model Decentralized at State/UT level Target Beneficiaries Note: Over 66% of units in the unorganized food processing sector are family-run, and 80% of these are micro-enterprises. Components of the PM FME Scheme 1. Support to Individual Micro Enterprises 2. Group-Based Support 3. Capacity Building 4. Support for Common Infrastructure 5. Branding and Marketing Support Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) The PM FME Scheme aligns with various UN Sustainable Development Goals: SDG Goal Alignment Goal 1: No Poverty Rural employment generation and income security Goal 2: Zero Hunger Reduction in post-harvest losses, food availability Goal 5: Gender Equality Prioritizing SHGs and women entrepreneurs Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth Skill development and formalization Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure Upgradation of micro food units and infrastructure Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production Efficient use of raw food materials and value addition One District One Product (ODOP) Framework Progress So Far (as of 2025) Metric Achievement Units assisted Over 75,000 individual enterprises SHG/FPO support 1,200+ collectives ODOPs identified 710+ districts Training sessions 2,000+ EDPs Common infrastructure 200+ projects sanctioned Financial Assistance and Subsidy Flow Stakeholder Contribution Beneficiary 10% (minimum) Bank Loan 55% Subsidy (Govt.) 35% (shared 60:40 between Centre:State) Benefits of the PM FME Scheme For Enterprises For the Economy For Consumers Eligibility Criteria Beneficiary Type Eligibility Individuals Must own a micro food processing unit, preferably ODOP-based SHGs/FPOs/Cooperatives Engaged in food processing, ODOP alignment preferred Others Women, SC/ST, OBC, and minority entrepreneurs are encouraged Implementation Structure Level Entity Central Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) State State Nodal Departments/Agencies District District Resource Persons (DRPs), Local institutions Support National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM) and Indian Institute of Food Processing Technology (IIFPT) Digital Initiatives India vs. Other Nations Country Approach to MSME Food Processing Comparison with PM FME Thailand SME-focused agri-food clusters, export-oriented Similar ODOP strategy Philippines Local value addition + tech upgradation More advanced in co-op use Vietnam Government-backed rural micro-units for rice, seafood Similar support structure, less formalization India Credit + capacity + ODOP + branding Holistic & large-scale integration through PM FME Synergy with Other Government Schemes The PM FME Scheme complements several other initiatives aimed at agricultural and rural development: Scheme Synergy with PM FME Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana (PMKSY) Infrastructure development and cold chain creation Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) Shared credit facilities for common processing infrastructure National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) Support for SHGs and rural women-led micro-enterprises Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) Micro-credit assistance to budding food processors Startup India Entrepreneurship support for innovative food startups Make in India Boosting indigenous processing and packaging technologies Challenges Challenge Explanation Credit access High NPAs and reluctance from banks Low awareness Especially in remote districts Supply chain bottlenecks Lack of cold chains and storage Certification and compliance Difficult for small units Way Forward Conclusion The PM FME Scheme is a transformative step toward building a self-reliant India by formalizing the unorganized micro food processing sector. By providing credit, infrastructure, branding support, and training, the scheme is empowering thousands of micro-entrepreneurs, especially in rural India. It stands as a model of inclusive growth, rural industrialization, and sustainable value chain development.

Introduction The Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana (PMKSY) is a flagship scheme launched by the Government of India to modernize the agriculture and food processing sector. Aimed at reducing food wastage and enhancing the income of farmers, PMKSY plays a critical role in strengthening the farm-to-fork value chain. Launched by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), PMKSY consolidates several sub-schemes for infrastructure development, supply chain management, and entrepreneurship support in the agro-processing ecosystem. Full Form of PMKSY Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana SAMPADA stands for Scheme for Agro-Marine Processing and Development of Agro-Processing Clusters. Objectives of PMKSY Implementing Ministry Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), Government of India Year of Launch 2017, with retroactive effect from 2016-17. Components of PMKSY PMKSY is an umbrella scheme consisting of the following 7 major sub-schemes: Sub-Scheme Objective 1. Mega Food Parks (MFP) Creation of infrastructure for processing units in a cluster-based approach. 2. Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure Cold storage, chilling units, value addition, and preservation infrastructure. 3. Infrastructure for Agro-processing Clusters Development of modern infrastructure to support groups of food processing units. 4. Creation / Expansion of Food Processing & Preservation Capacities (CEFPPC) Financial assistance to set up new or expand existing processing and preservation units. 5. Backward and Forward Linkages Link farmers and processors by providing supply chain infrastructure. 6. Food Safety and Quality Assurance Infrastructure Assistance for quality control laboratories to ensure food safety compliance. 7. Human Resources and Institutions Training, skill development, and capacity building for entrepreneurs and workers. PMKSY Sub-Schemes 1. Mega Food Parks (MFP) 2. Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure 3. Agro-Processing Cluster Scheme 4. Creation/Expansion of Food Processing & Preservation Capacities (CEFPPC) 5. Backward and Forward Linkages 6. Food Safety and Quality Assurance Infrastructure 7. Human Resources and Institutions Budget Allocation & Funding Pattern Component Central Assistance Mega Food Parks Up to ₹50 crore Cold Chain Projects Up to ₹10 crore Agro-Processing Clusters Up to ₹10 crore CEFPPC Up to ₹5 crore Food Safety & Quality Infra 50% to 75% of the cost (depending on location) Backward & Forward Linkages Up to ₹5 crore The funding pattern depends on the project location: Target Beneficiaries Infrastructure Development Under PMKSY Achievements of PMKSY (as of 2024) Indicator Status Projects Sanctioned 1000+ Investment Generated ₹15,000+ crore Farmers Benefited 30+ lakh Employment Generated 5+ lakh Food Wastage Reduction 10%–20% in project areas Benefits of PMKSY Application Process Before vs After PMKSY Aspect Before PMKSY After PMKSY Implementation Cold Chain Coverage Fragmented and minimal Integrated, end-to-end infrastructure Farmer Income Low, due to distress selling Increased via value addition Wastage 30-40% for perishables Reduced by 10–20% Agro-Exports Underutilized Boosted with ready-to-export processed food Rural Jobs Seasonal, agriculture-dependent Year-round processing-based jobs Link to Apply MoFPI PMKSY Portal Challenges Suggestions for Improvement PMKSY & Doubling Farmers’ Income PMKSY aligns directly with the Government’s goal to double farmers’ income by: Conclusion The Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana is a transformative step toward strengthening India’s agri-economy. By bridging the gap between farmers and markets, it ensures sustainable income generation, boosts rural employment, and significantly contributes to food security and export potential. Its integrated approach toward infrastructure, capacity building, and supply chain development makes it one of the most comprehensive schemes for agro-processing in India.

Introduction The NAMASTE Scheme (National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem) is a Central Sector Scheme launched by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (MoSJE) in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). It aims to eradicate hazardous cleaning of sewers and septic tanks, and promote mechanised sanitation across urban India. In the backdrop of the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013, and the constitutional commitment to dignity and equality, NAMASTE is a significant step forward in ensuring the safety, skill development, and rehabilitation of sanitation workers. Key Facts at a Glance Particulars Details Full Form National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem Launched by MoSJE + MoHUA Year of Launch 2022 Type of Scheme Central Sector Scheme Coverage Initially 500 AMRUT cities Budget Allocation (FY 2022-26) ₹360 crore Implementing Agencies NSKFDC, SBM-U, ULBs Beneficiaries Sanitation workers, manual scavengers Objectives of the NAMASTE Scheme Components of the NAMASTE Scheme The components of the scheme include: Component Description Identification of Sanitation Workers Survey and database creation through ULBs. Skilling Programs Training through Jan Shikshan Sansthans, ITIs, PM-DAKSH. Livelihood Assistance Provision of loans and capital subsidies through NSKFDC. Occupational Safety PPE kits, health insurance, risk and hazard training. Convergence with Other Schemes E.g., PM-SVANidhi, PMAY, Ayushman Bharat for holistic development. Implementation Strategy Step-by-Step Implementation Institutional Framework Body Role MoSJE Policy oversight, financial support MoHUA Coordination with ULBs under SBM-U NSKFDC Financing and skill training support Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) Ground-level implementation Legal and Ethical Context Budget and Financial Support Year Fund Allocation (₹ crore) Focus 2022–2023 100 Initial implementation 2023–2024 90 Expansion and skilling 2024–2025 90 Sustainable livelihood 2025–2026 80 Rehabilitation and exit strategy Comparative Analysis with SBM-U and Other Initiatives Feature Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) NAMASTE Scheme Focus Area Sanitation Infrastructure Sanitation Worker Safety Implementation Infrastructure-centric Worker-centric Inclusion of Workers Limited Core component Type Centrally Sponsored Scheme Central Sector Scheme Challenges in Implementation Challenge Description Lack of Awareness Many workers are unaware of government rehabilitation schemes. Technological Gaps Mechanised tools not uniformly available in all ULBs. Social Discrimination Deep-rooted caste stigma prevents social reintegration. Inadequate Training Limited access to quality vocational skilling. Ethical and Human Rights Perspective “It is not a question of infrastructure, but of human dignity.” Technological Innovations under NAMASTE Innovation Description Bandicoot Robots Robotic arms to clean sewers remotely GIS Mapping of Septic Tanks Identify high-risk zones for sanitation workers Real-Time Safety Monitoring Smart wearables for gas detection and worker tracking Digital ID Cards For sanitation workers to access benefits Future Scope: Integration of AI and IoT to track sewer blockages and pre-empt risks to human cleaners. Way Forward Conclusion The NAMASTE Scheme is not merely a welfare initiative—it represents a paradigm shift in the treatment of sanitation workers in India. It addresses occupational safety, economic upliftment, and human dignity, making it a crucial topic in the domains of social justice, governance, and urban development.

Introduction On 27th March 2019, India created history by successfully conducting an Anti-Satellite (ASAT) missile test under Mission Shakti. With this, India became the 4th country in the world to demonstrate such capability after the USA, Russia, and China. This landmark event was a significant step in strengthening India’s space security architecture and asserting its role in space diplomacy and deterrence strategy. What is Mission Shakti? Mission Shakti was a joint mission by DRDO and ISRO, aimed at developing and demonstrating Anti-Satellite missile technology. It involved the destruction of a live satellite in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), approximately 300 km above Earth, using a direct-ascent kinetic kill vehicle. Key Highlights: Feature Details Date 27 March 2019 Lead Agency DRDO Type Direct-Ascent Kinetic Kill Target Microsat-R (Indian satellite) Orbit Low Earth Orbit (300 km) Duration Test conducted within 3 minutes Result Successful hit and destruction of target satellite Background and Development Timeline Event Pre-2000s Initial discussions on space defense begin in scientific circles 2012–2018 DRDO develops Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) systems Early 2019 ASAT missile test planned under high confidentiality 27 March 2019 Mission Shakti conducted successfully from Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island India has consistently emphasized the peaceful use of outer space, but with growing concerns of satellite vulnerabilities, space deterrence became imperative. Objectives of Mission Shakti ASAT Missile System Direct-Ascent Kinetic Kill ASAT: Key Components: Agencies Involved Agency Role DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) Lead developer of ASAT missile and radar systems ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) Assisted in satellite positioning, launch coordination Strategic Significance of Mission Shakti 1. National Security 2. Strategic Deterrence 3. Strengthened Negotiation Power 4. Space Diplomacy Global Reactions and Legal Aspects Reactions: International Laws Involved: Treaty Provisions Outer Space Treaty (1967) Prohibits WMD in space, but no clear ban on conventional ASATs. India remains compliant. Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space (PAROS) Not yet a binding treaty; India advocates a consensus-based global framework. Global Context and Strategic Necessity Satellites today are used for: Hence, space is a force multiplier in modern warfare. With countries like China’s ASAT test in 2007 destroying a satellite at India’s Policy and Ethical Position Despite the test, India remains committed to: ASAT Capabilities of Major Countries Country Year of First ASAT Test Method Orbit Tested USA 1985 (re-tested 2008) Kinetic ~247 km Russia 1980s (ongoing tests) Co-Orbital + Direct ~500–1500 km China 2007 Kinetic ~865 km India 2019 Kinetic Direct-Ascent ~300 km India chose a lower orbit to minimize space debris — a decision praised by international space experts. Concerns and Challenges India’s Official Stand Conclusion Mission Shakti is a watershed moment in India’s defense and space history. It not only exemplifies India’s growing technological capabilities but also reflects its commitment to responsible behavior in space. For UPSC aspirants, understanding the strategic, technological, and legal dimensions of Mission Shakti is essential for a well-rounded answer in both Mains and Interview stages. FAQs Q1. Is Mission Shakti an offensive move?A: No, India has clarified that it was a deterrence-based and defensive capability demonstration. Q2. Will it lead to an arms race in space?A: There is a possibility, but India supports international cooperation for the peaceful use of outer space. Q3. What makes the ASAT test different from missile tests?A: Unlike ballistic missiles targeting Earth-based threats, ASATs target objects in space with extreme precision and kinetic impact. Q4. Why is LEO chosen for the test?A: Debris in LEO decays faster due to atmospheric drag, reducing the long-term threat. Q5. Will there be more such missions?A: India has not announced any further tests but is working on enhancing space situational awareness and satellite protection.

Introduction India’s socio-economic fabric is deeply intertwined with its large marginalized population groups — including Scheduled Castes (SCs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), Economically Backward Classes (EBCs), and De-notified Tribes (DNTs). While constitutional protections and welfare schemes have been in place for decades, economic empowerment remains a key challenge. To bridge this gap, the Government of India launched the PM-DAKSH Yojana in 2020 to provide quality skill development training for livelihood and self-reliance. What is PM-DAKSH? PM-DAKSH stands for “Pradhan Mantri Dakshta Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi”.It is a Central Sector Scheme aimed at improving the livelihood capabilities of the targeted marginalized communities through skill training and entrepreneurship development. Objectives of PM-DAKSH “Skill is the new currency of empowerment.” Target Beneficiaries Category Eligibility Criteria Scheduled Castes (SCs) No income limit Other Backward Classes (OBCs) Annual family income ≤ ₹3 lakh Economically Backward Classes (EBCs) Annual family income ≤ ₹1 lakh Denotified Tribes (DNTs) No income limit Key Components Short-Term Training (STT) Up-skilling / Re-skilling Entrepreneurship Development Program (EDP) Long-Term Training (LTT) PM-DAKSH Portal & Mobile App To improve transparency and ease of access: Performance Highlights Year Trained Candidates Placement Rate 2020–21 45,000+ ~65% 2021–22 52,000+ ~70% 2022–23 60,000+ ~72% Over 1.5 lakh candidates trained since inception. Geographical Reach Benefits of PM-DAKSH For Individuals For Society Socio-Economic Context Behind PM-DAKSH Despite India’s economic strides, a large section of marginalized communities continues to remain excluded from mainstream employment and entrepreneurship opportunities due to: In this backdrop, PM-DAKSH addresses both skill deficiency and social inequity, placing a strong focus on empowerment through capacity building. Convergence with Other Schemes PM-DAKSH doesn’t operate in isolation. It complements and converges with several other government initiatives to ensure end-to-end support: Scheme Nature of Convergence PMKVY (Skill India) Leverages NSDC training partners and sector skill councils Mudra Yojana Provides credit to trained candidates for setting up enterprises Stand-Up India Promotes women and SC/ST entrepreneurs Digital India Empowers digital onboarding, certification, and job linkage Startup India Enables beneficiaries with incubation and funding opportunities Role of Institutions in Implementation Institution Role Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment Policy formulation, fund allocation, monitoring National Skill Development Corporation Technical partner for curriculum, training partner onboarding, evaluation Empanelled Training Institutes (ETIs) Ground-level execution, mobilisation, training, certification State Skill Missions Regional coordination, local mobilization, placement facilitation This institutional ecosystem ensures scalability, accountability. PM-DAKSH and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) The scheme contributes directly to several United Nations SDGs: SDG Goal PM-DAKSH Contribution Goal 1: No Poverty By enabling self-employment and steady incomes Goal 4: Quality Education Through short-term and long-term vocational training Goal 5: Gender Equality Special focus on women participants Goal 8: Decent Work and Growth By creating skilled manpower for the modern job market Goal 10: Reduced Inequality Directly addresses caste-based and class-based inequalities Challenges in Implementation Way Forward Conclusion PM-DAKSH is not just a skilling scheme — it’s a mission to unlock the true potential of marginalized communities. By creating pathways to economic participation, it lays the foundation for an India where no one is left behind, regardless of caste, class, or tribe. In the spirit of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, PM-DAKSH is a cornerstone in India’s journey toward equity and empowerment.