11 Must-Have Indian Govt Apps (2025 Edition)

Here’s a curated list of 11 essential Indian government apps that every citizen should consider installing in 2025. These apps streamline access to public services, documents, payments, and citizen engagement—all from your smartphone:

App Name	Purpose & Key Features
UMANG	One-stop access to 1200+ services: EPFO, PAN, gas booking, tax filing, and more
DigiLocker	Secure cloud storage for official documents—DL, RC, Aadhaar, mark sheets, etc.
mAadhaar	Manage Aadhaar profile, lock biometrics, update address, scan QR
BHIM UPI	Fast, secure UPI payments with QR scanning and biometric login
mParivahan	Digital RC/DL, challan status, vehicle details, and road tax payments
mPassport Seva	Book passport appointments, track status, locate Passport Seva Kendras
Rail Connect (IRCTC)	Book/cancel train tickets, check PNR, Tatkal booking, and train schedules
GST Seva App	For businesses and taxpayers—track GSTIN, access rules/forms, file grievances
MyGov App	Participate in policy surveys, suggest ideas, engage with government campaigns
AIS for Taxpayers	View Annual Information Statement (AIS), TDS/TCS, dividends, refunds, and give feedback
RBI Retail Direct	Invest directly in Govt securities, T-bills, Sovereign Gold Bonds via RBI Gilt Account

Why These Apps Matter

• Financial clarity: AIS and RBI apps empower taxpayers and investors with real-time data.
• Paperless governance: DigiLocker, mAadhaar, and UMANG reduce dependency on physical documents.
• Citizen engagement: MyGov and GST Seva foster two-way communication with ministries.
• Mobility & convenience: From train tickets to passport appointments, everything’s mobile-first.

RBI To Pay Record-Breaking Dividend of ~ $35 Bn To Govt of India

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is expected to transfer a record-breaking dividend of up to ₹3 lakh crore ( approx. US $35 Billion) to the government for FY25, significantly surpassing last year's ₹2.11 lakh crore reported the Economic Times and other media outlets. This surge is attributed to robust earnings from dollar sales, rising gold prices, and gains from government securities.

The final amount will be determined in the RBI board meeting on May 23, following a review of the Economic Capital Framework (ECF).

This higher dividend could help manage the fiscal deficit and improve liquidity in the banking system. Economists suggest that the surplus transfer might range between ₹2.5 lakh crore to ₹3 lakh crore, depending on provisioning levels.

The reported 3 lakh crore in Dividends to the government for FY25, marks a nearly 50% increase from last year’s ₹2.11 lakh crore. This surge is driven by robust earnings from dollar sales, rising gold prices, and gains from government securities.

Key Factors Behind the Higher Dividend:

• Dollar Sales: The RBI sold $371.6 billion in FY25 to stabilize the rupee, significantly boosting its earnings.
• Gold Price Surge: Appreciation in gold prices contributed to valuation gains
• Government Securities: Market-to-market gains on RBI’s holdings of rupee securities added to the surplus.

Economic Capital Framework (ECF) Review: The RBI board met on May 15 to review the ECF, which determines risk provisioning and surplus distribution. The final dividend amount will be decided in the May 23 board meeting.

Impact on India’s Economy:

Fiscal Deficit Management: The surplus transfer will help the government reduce fiscal deficit and maintain liquidity in the banking system.

Bond Market Influence: A higher-than-expected dividend could impact bond yields, with markets already factoring in a ₹2.5 lakh crore payout.

Banking Liquidity: The dividend is expected to increase liquidity in the system, potentially reaching ₹6 lakh crore

NITI Aayog Collab With Former Microsoft India Chairman Founded GAME to Boost Local Entrepreneurship

Global Alliance for Mass Entrepreneurship (GAME) and NITI Aayog have officially joined forces to strengthen entrepreneurship ecosystems across India, reported news agency IANS. Their collaboration, announced on May 2, 2025, will kick off with pilot projects in Nagpur, Visakhapatnam, and select locations in Uttar Pradesh.

With a mission to create 50 million new jobs by 2030, the Global Alliance for Mass Entrepreneurship (GAME) was founded by Ravi Venkatesan, Madan Padaki, and Mekin Maheshwari, in 2018.

While Ravi Venkatesan is a former Chairman of Microsoft India, Madan Padaki is a seasoned entrepreneur, he co-founded MeritTrac, one of India’s largest skills assessment companies. And, Mekin Maheshwari was previously Chief People Officer at Flipkart, he has been instrumental in shaping India's startup culture. He also founded Udhyam Learning Foundation, which focuses on entrepreneurial education.

The initiative with NITI Aayog aims to empower local entrepreneurs by bringing together key stakeholders—government bodies, corporations, educational institutions, financial organizations, and community groups. GAME will implement proven methodologies such as access to finance, capacity-building programs, and policy advocacy to create self-sustaining business ecosystems.

The Global Alliance for Mass Entrepreneurship (GAME) has launched pilot projects in Nagpur, Visakhapatnam, and Uttar Pradesh in collaboration with NITI Aayog. These initiatives aim to create self-sustaining entrepreneurial ecosystems by bringing together government bodies, corporates, educational institutions, financial organizations, and community leaders.

Key Focus Areas:

• Access to Finance: Helping entrepreneurs secure funding to start and scale businesses.
• Capacity Building: Providing training and mentorship to strengthen business skills.
• Policy Advocacy: Addressing systemic barriers to entrepreneurship.
• Community-Driven Initiatives: Encouraging local collaboration to foster innovation.

GAME has already impacted over 300,000 entrepreneurs, and this partnership is expected to accelerate opportunities for aspiring business owners.

Ketul Acharya, President of GAME, emphasized the transformative power of entrepreneurship, stating that this partnership will inspire innovation and drive inclusive growth. With GAME already impacting over 300,000 entrepreneurs, this collaboration is expected to accelerate opportunities for aspiring business owners.

First Edition of India’s International Technology Engagement Strategy (ITES) for Quantum Released

The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India today released the first edition of International Technology Engagement Strategy for Quantum, marking a significant step toward articulating India’s outward-facing strategy in Quantum Science, Technology and Innovation (QSTI), with the intent to accelerate discovery, foster innovation, and catalyse adoption across critical sectors.

Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood

The report was officially unveiled by PSA Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood during the Office of PSA’s podcast on the occasion of World Quantum Day 2025, celebrated every year on April 14. This report comes with a special significance because of 2025 being the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQST) designated by the United Nations and member states.

This inaugural edition of ITES-Q provides a comprehensive overview of both global and national quantum ecosystems, covering analysis of investments, talent development, institutional strengths, research publications, intellectual property, startups, supply chains, and industrial activity. The ITES-Q is thought out to facilitate impactful partnerships and particularly add value to the efforts of Indian missions abroad in strengthening bilateral and multilateral engagements for QSTI.

The ITES is an initiative of the Office of the PSA to GoI, designed to strengthen and elevate India’s Technology Diplomacy efforts across critical and emerging domains.

The full ITES-Q report can be accessed through the Office of PSA website: https://psa.gov.in/CMS/web/sites/default/files/publication/ITES_QWEBSITE1.pdf

World Quantum Day 2025 Podcast with PSA can be tuned in here: 

Infosys to Launch Springboard, Its Digital Learning Platform, in London Borough of Southwark

Infosys has announced a collaboration with Southwark Council to launch its digital learning platform, Springboard, in the London Borough of Southwark. This initiative aims to provide residents, colleges, and schools with free access to the platform, which is designed to empower people with critical digital and employability skills.

The platform will be freely accessible to everyone, promoting digital literacy and ensuring that no one is left behind .

Infosys' Springboard will make devices and digital assets available to those who cannot afford them, fostering digitally engaged communities.

Entrepreneurs and small to medium-sized businesses can also enhance their services through digital efforts.

The platform features content on digital learning, emerging technologies, and life skills, and is led by a team of experts invested in equipping residents with the right tools and resources to participate in society and the digital economy.

It may be recalled that this initiative follows successful deployments in Brent and Sandwell, where over 50,000 users have already benefited from over 10,000 courses offered through the Springboard platform.

Governed by Southwark Council, Southwark is located in south-central London, extending from the Thames to the suburbia of Dulwich.

Southwark Council responsible for delivering local services and maintaining the area. The council provides a range of services to residents, including housing, education, social care, environmental services, and more.

The London Borough of Southwark is a vibrant and historic area located on the south bank of the River Thames. It forms part of Inner London and is known for its rich history, diverse communities, and numerous cultural landmarks.

About Infosys Springboard, it is a flagship digital learning platform designed to empower people, communities, and society with essential digital and life skills.

The platform is available in multiple regions, including India, the USA, and now the London Borough of Southwark. Springboard is powered by Infosys Wingspan, an integrated digital learning and collaboration platform. It includes masterclasses, programming challenges, and social learning features to create an engaging learning experience.

In India, Springboard has already reached nearly 400,000 learners and 300+ educational institutions, NGOs, and support groups. In USA The platform offers dynamic computer science and maker education content for K-12 educators, students, and families, as well as upskilling opportunities for post-secondary learners.

Indian Govt Plans Its First Carbon Credits Sale Via FCI

India is gearing up for its first carbon credit sale, with the Food Corporation of India (FCI) playing a crucial role. The government plans to leverage FCI's optimized logistics and digital transformation efforts, which have significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions. This initiative is part of India's broader strategy to meet its emission reduction targets under the Paris Agreement.

The carbon credits generated from these efforts will be sold, providing a financial incentive for further sustainability initiatives. This move is expected to promote cleaner technologies and practices across various sectors.

India's carbon credit trading scheme, established under the Energy Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2022, aims to create a domestic carbon market. This market will incentivize emission reductions by allowing companies to trade carbon credits, thus encouraging them to adopt more sustainable practices.

The Food Corporation of India (FCI) is playing a pivotal role in the Indian government’s first carbon credit sale. By optimizing its logistics operations, FCI has significantly reduced its greenhouse gas emissions. This includes digital transformation initiatives that streamline supply chain operations, reduce transportation distances, and improve overall efficiency. The carbon credits generated from these emission reductions will be sold. 

It’s a significant step towards achieving carbon neutrality and promoting sustainable practices in India’s foodgrain management system.

To optimize its logistics, focusing on improving efficiency and reducing emissions, FCI has adopted digital tools to streamline its supply chain operations. This includes real-time tracking of foodgrain movement, automated inventory management, and predictive analytics to forecast demand and optimize storage and distribution

Further, by optimizing routes and consolidating shipments, FCI has reduced fuel consumption and transportation costs. This not only lowers emissions but also ensures timely delivery of foodgrains.

Moreover, FCI is incorporating sustainable practices such as using energy-efficient equipment and renewable energy sources in its operations. This further contributes to reducing the carbon footprint.

Besides, the FCI is also working with various stakeholders, including state governments and private partners, to implement best practices in logistics and supply chain management. Additionally, it provides training to its staff on sustainable practices and efficient resource utilization.

FCI maintains a vast network of storage facilities across the country, including warehouses and silos, to store the procured food grains.

Established in 1965 under the Food Corporations Act, 1964, the FCI operates under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. FCI’s primary mandate is to ensure the food security of India by managing the procurement, storage, and distribution of food grains, primarily wheat and rice.

In April this year, the Indian government has significantly increased FCI’s authorized working capital to ₹21,000 crore from ₹10,000 crore. This financial boost is aimed at minimizing borrowings and interest payouts, and funding a planned modernization drive. The additional capital will help FCI enhance its storage facilities, improve transportation networks, and adopt advanced technologies.

Later in July, the Union government has restructured FCI’s funding, allowing it to operate without taking on new debt for the first time. This move expected to cut interest payments by a tenth and smoothen the flow of funds, ensuring more efficient operations.

Notably, the Indian government has several plans and initiatives related to carbon credit sales and the development of a domestic carbon market.

Last year in June, the Ministry of Power has notified the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme, 2023, which aims to establish a domestic carbon market. This scheme sets the framework for trading carbon credits, with the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) acting as the administrator and the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) overseeing the trading process.

Besides, the country is also working towards launching a national carbon market to drive down fossil fuel use. This market will allow polluters to exchange credits equivalent to a certain amount of emissions, incentivizing companies to reduce their carbon footprint

L&T Construction Wins Order From HITES to Construct New AIIMS at Rewari (Haryana)

The Buildings & Factories (B&F) Business of Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Construction has secured an order from HITES (A Mini Ratna PSU) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) .

The company's Health, Residential & Commercial spaces Strategic Business Group (HRC SBG) has secured an order to construct a new AIIMS at Rewari (Haryana) on a Design, Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) basis in Q3 FY’24. The facilities will include a 720-bed Teaching Hospital, a 30-bed AYUSH Hospital, an 100 students’ annual intake Medical College, Nursing College, 500-seat Auditorium, Hostel & Residential facilities to be executed within stringent timelines. The total built up area is 1.5 Mn Sq. ft.

According to the company’s classification of projects, the value of the order is between 1,000 to 2,500 crore INR.

The scope of work involves Civil structure, Finishes & allied MEP services including built in Furniture, Supply, Installation, Testing & commissioning of Medical Gas Piping, Modular OT, Pneumatic Tube System, Nurse Call System, Central Sterile Supply Department & external development works including landscaping.

Larsen & Toubro is a USD 23 billion Indian multinational engaged in EPC Projects, Hi-Tech Manufacturing and Services. It operates in over 50 countries worldwide. A strong, customer–focused approach and the constant quest for top-class quality have enabled L&T to attain and sustain leadership in its major lines of business for eight decades.

HLL Infra Tech Services Limited, known as ‘HITES’ is a 100% subsidiary of HLL Lifecare Limited( A Mini Ratna PSU) under MoHFW, GOI. HITES is specifically positioned towards absorbing the requirements of Medium to Large Public Hospitals primarily within the country as well as small forays overseas.

India Presents e-Shram, World’s Largest Database of Unorganised Workers and National Career Service Portal During 4th G20 EWG meeting

The 4th Employment Working Group (EWG) Meeting under India’s G20 Presidency began in the city of Indore, Madhya Pradesh yesterday.

 

The delegates from Co-Chair countries, namely Indonesia and Brazil also made statements in the opening session and expressed their optimism on competing the work through fruitful discussions.

India made a presentation on e-Shram, the world’s largest database of unorganised workers and National Career Service (NCS) Portal. The presentation on e-shram and NCS portals will also be shared with the international delegates who expressed interest and curiosity on India’s achievement on these fronts.

The eShram portal will be used for enrollment, registration, collection and identification of the required data of all the unorganised workers. Portal will provide the facility to register workers by Self registration as per their convenience.

eSHRAM is to create a centralised database of Unorganized Workers which will help to implement the social security services to them and share their information with various stakeholders for delivering the welfare schemes.

According to the recent survey by Quess Corp, 80% of the informal employees expect their employers to provide them with the security of ESI and other medical benefits; the expectation of ESI is even higher for the younger, informal employees (83% - 18 to 25 years and 81% - 26 to 35 years).

Govt. Launches Startup Challenge To Solve Urban Water Issues, To Fund Rs.2 Cr To 100 Startups Selected

Today, MoHUA organised an event - "India Water Pitch-Pilot-Scale Start-up Conclave" - at India Habitat Centre to provide first of its kind networking platform to startups, young innovators, industry partners, incubators and States/cities. During the conclave, startup challenge was launched by Union Minister, HUA on MyGov platform.

With an aim to revamp the country's water management by inviting startups to solve the urban water problems, the government of India has just launched "India WaterPitch-Pilot-Scale Start-up Challenge" under Atal mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0 of Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). 

Under this challenge, startups will be empowered in the water/ used-water sector to grow through innovation and design that will drive sustainable economic growth and generate employment opportunities. The MoHUA will select 100 startups and each will be provided Rs.20 lakhs as funding support as well as mentorship.

The start-ups providing innovative technological/ business solution in the following areas, are eligible to participate:

1. Fresh water systems
2. Hydro informatics – use of water + data for
3. Used water management
4. Urban Water Management
5. Agricultural Water Management
6. Urban Sewerage Management
7. Water governance
8. Innovation in conventional taps and plumbing systems

Union Minister of MoHUA & Petroleum and Natural Gas, Mr. Hardeep Singh Puri, said, "The Start-ups are the flavor of the season, as the number of Unicorns in the country has jumped, by leaps and bounds. uccess of the Government’s schemes hinges, to a large extent, to the role and contribution of stakeholders and others in the ecosystem. The Stakeholders' responses in water sector are crucial for formulising Government programmes as they know what actually is the need.

The minister said that AMRUT 2.0 is a transformative and unique scheme, with a huge outlay of over Rs 2.77 lakh crore. He said that the scheme will ensure water security in the country, reduce its transportation costs, reduce groundwater contamination, and increase water utilization capacity. He said for the success of the Mission, Start-ups will have to play a meaningful role- by bringing in innovative ideas, Technology, novel delivery mechanism, etc.

AMRUT 2.0, launched by Hon’ble Prime Minister on 01 October, 2021, envisages identification of innovative, proven and potential environment friendly technologies in the fields of water & used water treatment, distribution and water body rejuvenation.
Through this challenge, MoHUA intends to select 100 start-ups providing workable and scalable solution for urban water problems.

For More information & details, check here

Govt Offering Financial Support to Co.s and Startups in Semiconductor and Sensor Domain, Invites Applications

Financial Assistance to Indian Companies for Commercialization.

Evaluation based on Scientific, Technological, Financial and Commercial Merit.

Financial Assistance in the form of Loan, Equity and/or Grants.

Indian companies having innovative technologies at commercialization stage in semiconductor & sensor domain now have an opportunity of been supported financially for commercialization and receive financial assistance in the form of loans, equity, and grants from government.

Technology Development Board (TDB), Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, has invited proposals from Indian Companies with innovative/indigenous technologies in Semiconductor and Sensor domain.

Aligning with the national requirement and focus in the electronic/semiconductor sector, proposals have been invited from Indian companies with indigenous technologies at commercialization stage in semiconductor & sensor domain focusing on semiconductor fabrication, display fabrication, designing for integrated circuits (ICs), chipsets, system on chips (SoCs) and so on.

We have taken a decisive step on semi-conductors to encourage research and innovation in the sector. It will also boost manufacturing and thus strengthen the dream of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

- Narendra Modi

The proposals invited by TDB has key features like providing financial assistance to Indian Companies for Commercialization, evaluation based on Scientific, Technological, Financial and Commercial Merit, and Financial Assistance in the form of Loan, Equity and/or Grants. The companies applying should be Indian companies (as per Companies Act,1956 /2013) or Start-ups with Recognition Certificate from DPIIT.

Who can APPLY

• Indian companies (as per Companies Act,1956 /2013) 
• Start-ups with Recognition Certificate from DPIIT

The vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi aims at positioning India as a global hub for Electronics System Design and Manufacturing. The government has undertaken a large number of initiatives for development of core components, including chipsets, and creating an enabling environment for the industry to compete globally.

Semiconductors and displays are the foundation of modern electronics driving the next phase of digital transformation under Industry 4.0. Semiconductors and display manufacturing are very complex and technology-intensive sectors involving huge capital investments, high risk, long gestation and payback periods, and rapid changes in technology, which require significant and sustained investments. The call will give an impetus to semiconductor and display manufacturing by facilitating capital support and technological collaborations.

Sh. Rajesh Kumar Pathak, IP&TAFS, Secretary, TDB, added, “TDB has played a pivotal role in developing conducive ecosystems for growth of technology companies, this call shall provide impetus to the Semiconductor & Sensor Ecosystem, which will be essential to the AatmaNirbharBharat initiative.”

For detailed Funding Guidelines and Proposal Submission, applicants can visit TDB’s website- www.tdb.gov.in. Last date to submit the proposal is 26th March, 2022.

Application Invited from Startups and MSMEs under Chips to Startup (C2S) Programme of MeitY

MeitY invites applications under the Chips to Startup (C2S) Programme from academia, R&D organisations, startups and MSMEs

In line with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s plan to transform India into the next semiconductor hub, the Ministry of Electronics and Information (MeitY) has sought applications from 100 academia, R&D organisations, start-ups and MSMEs under its Chips to Startup (C2S) Programme.

The Chips to Startup (C2S) Programme aims to train 85,000 number of high-quality and qualified engineers in the area of Very large-scale integration (VLSI) and Embedded System Design as well as result in development of 175 ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), Working Prototypes of 20 System on Chips (SoC) and IP Core repository over a period of 5 years. This will be a step towards leapfrogging in the Electronics System Design & Manufacturing (ESDM) space by way of inculcating the culture of SoC/ System Level Design at Bachelors, Masters and Research level and act as a catalyst for growth of Start-ups involved in fabless design.

The programme would be implemented at about 100 academic institutions/R&D organisations across the Country (including IITs, NITs, IIITs, Government/Private Colleges and R&D Organisations). Startups and MSMEs can also participate in the programme by submitting their proposals under Academia- Industry Collaborative Project, Grand Challenge/ /Hackathons/RFP for development of System/SoC/IP Core(s).

The C2S Programme addresses each entity of the value chain in electronics viz. quality manpower training, research and development, hardware IPs design, System design, application-oriented R&D, Prototype design and deployment with the help of academia, industry, start-ups and R&D establishments.

Under the Programme, based on the Institutions’ expertise, Technology Readiness Level (TRL) and design experience acquired during earlier SMDP Programmes, proposals are invited in three different categories, i.e., Design and Development of Systems/SoCs/ASICs/Reusable IP Core(s), Development of Application Oriented Working Prototype of IPs/ASICs/SoCs, and Proof of Concept oriented Research and Development of ASICs/FPGAs.

C-DAC (Centre for Development of Advanced Computing), a scientific society operating under MeitY, will serve as the nodal agency for the programme.

Online applications are open at the Chips to Startup (C2S) website until January 31, 2022.

The project proposals should be submitted at C2S portal (www.c2s.gov.in) in the format prescribed at the portal. The institutions applying under the programme should meet the eligibility criteria defined at the portal and should be in line with the proposals’ guidelines.

Microsoft India and Labour Ministry Jointly Launches Free of Cost Digital Upskilling Platform 'DigiSaksham'

Shri Bhupender Yadav launches DigiSaksham- a joint initiative of Labour Ministry with Microsoft India to enhance the employability of youth

DigiSaksham will help skill, up-skill and re-skill, keeping employability skills in sync with technology up gradations: Shri Bhupender Yadav

Minister for Labour and Employment, Shri Bhupender Yadav yesterday launched DigiSaksham - a digital skills programme to enhance the employability of youth by imparting digital skills that are required in an increasingly technology driven era. This joint initiative with Microsoft India is an extension of the Government’s ongoing programs to support the youth from rural and semi-urban areas.

Through DigiSaksham initiative, free of cost training in digital skills including basic skills as well as advance computing, will be provided to more than 3 lakh youths in the first year. The Jobseekers can access the training through National Career Service (NCS) Portal (www.ncs.gov.in). The initiative gives priority to the job-seekers of semi urban areas belonging to disadvantaged communities, including those who have lost their jobs due to Covid-19 pandemic.

The job market today is highly competitive and employers are looking for employability skills along with subject matter expertise. Launched DigiSaksham, which will address the digital skilling needs of more than 97 lakh active job-seekers registered on the NCS portal. pic.twitter.com/zdSh1mDMuj

— Bhupender Yadav (@byadavbjp) September 30, 2021

Speaking at the launch, the Union Minister said that with fast paced technology up gradations, constant skilling, reskilling and up skilling is a must.

Under the DigiSaksham initiative, there will be basically three types of training - 

1. Digital Skills – Self paced learning, 
2. VILT mode training (Virtual Instructor led) 
3. ILT mode training (Instructor led). 

The ILT training which is in person training would be conducted at the Model Career Centres (MCCs) and National Career Service Centres (NCSC) for SCs/STs across the country.

Through this initiative, nearly one crore active jobseekers registered on National Career Service (NCS) Portal will be able to access training in areas like JavaScript, Data Visualization, Advance Excel, Power Bi, HTML, Programming languages, software development fundamentals, Introduction to coding , etc, equipping them with the skills required in a digital economy. DigiSaksham will be implemented in the field by Aga Khan Rural Support Programme India (AKRSP-I).

The DigiSaksham initiative will equip more than 300,000 youth in technical skills in the first year and Jobseekers can access Microsoft learning resources such as programming languages, data analytics, software development fundamentals, DevOps and advanced digital productivity on the National Career Service (NCS) Portal. 

Speaking at the launch event, Mr. Anant Maheshwari, President - Microsoft India, said that Skills of future will be different from today and bridging the digital skill equity gap requires involvement and close cooperation of government and private sector working with people that will further accelerate India’s transition to Digital Economy.

The initiative gives priority to the job-seekers of semi urban areas belonging to disadvantaged communities, particularly the candidates from the socially and economically backward communities, marginalized communities, people who have been displaced or lost jobs due to Covid-19. Microsoft India has also roped in Aga Khan Rural Support Programme-India and its knowledge partner TMI e2E Academy for rolling out this digital initiative. I takes this opportunity to launch the DigiSaksham programme and wish all success to the organisations involved in this initiative.

The minister also highlighted the importance of skilling in bridging India’s digital divide, placing the country on the path to inclusive economic recovery and preparing India’s talent to thrive in a digital future catering not only to the needs of the domestic economy but also to tap the overseas employment opportunities.

DigiSaksham Website - https://digisaksham.azurewebsites.net/

Govt Launches Grand Challenge 'जनCARE' To Identify 75 Startup Innovations in Telemedicine, AI, Digital Health and BIG Data

Photo by Possessed Photography on Unsplash

• Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh launches the “Amrit Grand Challenge Program” titled “जनCARE” to identify 75 innovations in Telemedicine, AI, Digital Health & BIG Data by Start-ups and Entrepreneurs
• Addresses the BIRAC’s 10th Biotech Innovators Meet-“Vigyan se Vikash” in New Delhi
• Dr Jitendra Singh directed BIRAC to pro-actively reach out to Young Startups, rather than they approaching Council for help and support
• The Minister says, India’s Bio-Economy is on way to achieve 150 billion dollar target to contribute effectively for Prime Minister’s vision of a 5 trillion dollar economy by 2024-25
• 10,000 Biotech Startups to propel the innovation and knowledge translation into products that are Made in India – for India and for the World: Dr Jitendra Singh

Union Minister, Dr Jitendra Singh, today launched the “AmritGrand Challenge Program” titled “जनCARE” to identify 75 Start-Up Innovations in Telemedicine, Digital Health, mHealth with BIG Data, AI, Block Chain and other technologies.

The Minister said, as the launch of Grand Challenge coincides with the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav launched by the Prime Minister, it is all the more imperative for Young Startups and entrepreneurs to come out with Innovative Ideas and Solutions for India’s healthcare challenges. He said, the 75 Best Chosen Startups will be an asset for India to lead the country in the next 25 years, during the celebrations of Centenary of India’s Independence.

Addressing the BIRAC’s 10th Biotech Innovators Meet in New Delhi with a theme-“Vigyan se Vikash”, Dr Jitendra Singh pledged full support to Startups from ideation to deployment stage. He expressed satisfaction that there is a commitment from several industry, hospitals investors, incubators and other stakeholders for this Amrit Challenge, which will end by 31st December, 2021. The Minister also felt happy that this is being launched a day after the Pradhan Mantri’s Digital Health Mission was announced yesterday.

Dr Jitendra Singh directed the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) to pro-actively reach out to Young Startups, rather than they approaching BIRAC for help and support. He said, an audit in this regard will be done by the end of the year. The Minister also made his stand clear that Young promising Innovations will get priority in terms of help, support and hand-holding than the established industrial hubs.He said, though there is no dearth of talented HR pool in the Country, the main challenge is to channelize it for evolving new paradigms.

Interacting with some of the top Biotech and Agri Startups and Stakeholders, DrJitendra Singh said, he firmly believe that the Startups ecosystem has the potential to tilt the balance from import-centric medical devices sector to Made in India for India and for World alternatives. He said, many of the innovations developed in the last two years in the field of diagnostic kits, healthcare and farming will have a relevance in post-COVID era.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, India’s Bio-Economy is on way to achieve 150 billion dollar target to contribute effectively to Prime Minister’s vision of a 5 trillion dollar economy by 2024-25.Addressing the BIRAC’s 10th Biotech Innovators Meet in New Delhi, he said, the Sunshine Biotech Sector will more than double from 70 billion dollar at present to 150 billion dollar by 2025.

The Minister said that the Innovation and Startups support has resulted in more than 600 Plus Technologies and Products at different stages of Commercialisation. He also informed that the Startups ecosystem is also poised to scale to 10,000 biotech Startups propelling the innovation and knowledge translation into products that are Made in India – for India and for the World.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, BIRAC has established 60 world class Bio-incubators in the country. Moreover, BIRAC today engages with more than 5000 Startups and young entrepreneurs, who have received financial and mentoring support from BIRAC as it has its footprints across India and at all major global biotech destinations, he added. He said, it is also heartening to see that women founders led Startups have about 27% representation and is growing further.

Dr Jitendra Singh that the support from BIRAC in nurturing the talent pool, providing opportunities to Startups to Seed, Succeed and Scale is evident as thousands of them have received not only funding support but access to mentors and expertise for regulatory, go-to-market strategy development, fund raising and commercialization. The Minister said, due to this rich Startup ecosystem, we witnessed several Covid-19 diagnostic kits developed and manufactured by young Startups in a very short time that enabled our country to become Atmanirbhar for testing using indigenized diagnostic kits and related products.

Dr. Renu Swarup, Secretary DBT & DST, and Chairperson BIRAC, Anju Bhalla, Joint Secretary DST and Managing Director BIRAC, eminent scientists, researchers, innovators and entrepreneurs, mentors and enablers of the biotech ecosystem took part in the event.

₹120 Crore of Incentives and ₹5,000 Crore Worth of Investment for Drone Manufacturing Sector

Incentives of Rs.120 crore to be given in next 3 years under PLI scheme for drones and drone components: Civil Aviation Minister Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia

Drone manufacturing industry is expected to generate over 10,000 direct jobs

Drone industry may grow to over Rs.900 crore in FY 2023-24

The Central Government has approved the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for drones and drone components manufacturer. 

On Thursday, 16 September, Mr. Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Union Minister of Civil Aviation, apprised the media about the important features of the PLI Scheme in a press conference and announced that under the PLI scheme, incentives of Rs. 120 crore will be given in the next 3 years. This amount is 1.5 times the combined size of the drone manufacturing sector. 

Over a period of 3-years, estimated investment worth ₹5,000 Crore for drones manufacturing sector will be done which in turn will bring a turnover of Rs 900 crore, and 10,000 job opportunities will be created. Mr. Scindia further added that our objective is to establish India as a global drone hub by 2030 and Ministry of Civil Aviation is committed to facilitate industry, service delivery and consumers in achieving the aforesaid target.

Top 15 Features of the PLI Scheme for Drones, 2021

• The total amount allocated for the PLI scheme for drones and drone components is INR 120 crore spread over three financial years. This amount is nearly double the combined turnover of all domestic drone manufacturers in FY 2020-21.
• The incentive for a manufacturer of drones and drone components shall be as high as 20% of the value addition made by her,
• The value addition shall be calculated as the annual sales revenue from drones and drone components (net of GST) minus the purchase cost (net of GST) of drone and drone components.
• The Government, has agreed to keep the PLI rate constant at 20% for all three years, an exceptional treatment given only to the drone industry. In PLI schemes for other sectors, the PLI rate reduces every year.
• The proposed tenure of the PLI scheme is three years starting in FY 2021-22. The PLI scheme will be extended or redrafted after studying its impact in consultation with the industry.
• The Government has agreed to fix the minimum value addition norm at 40% of net salesfor drones and drone components instead of 50%, another exceptional treatment given to the drone industry. This will allow widening the number of beneficiaries.
• The PLI scheme covers a wide variety of drone components:
• Airframe, propulsion systems(engine and electric), power systems, batteries and associated components, launch and recovery systems;
• Inertial Measurement Unit, Inertial Navigation System, flight control module, ground control station and associated components;
• Communications systems (radio frequency, transponders, satellite-based etc.)
• Cameras, sensors, spraying systems and related payload etc.;
• 'Detect and Avoid’ system, emergency recovery system, trackers etc. and other components critical for safety and security.
• The list of eligible components may be expanded by the Government from time to time, as the drone technology evolves.
• The Government has agreed to widen the coverage of the incentive scheme to include developers of drone-related IT products also.
• The Government has kept the eligibility norm for MSME and startups in terms of annual sales turnover at a nominal level - INR 2 cr (for drones) and INR 50 lakhs (for drone components). This will allow widening the number of beneficiaries.
• Eligibility norm for non-MSME companies in terms of annual sales turnover has been kept at INR 4 crore (for drones) and INR 1 crore (for drone components).
• The incentive payable to a manufacturer of drones and drone components shall be simply one-fifth of her value addition as illustrated below for a sample year (say, FY 2021-22):

Drones offer tremendous benefits to almost all sectors of the economy. These include– agriculture, mining, infrastructure, surveillance, emergency response, transportation, geo-spatial mapping, defence, and law enforcement to name a few. Drones can be significant creators of employment and economic growth due to their reach, versatility, and ease of use, especially in India’s remote and inaccessible areas.

Given its traditional strengths in innovation, information technology, frugal engineering and its huge domestic demand, India has the potential of becoming a global drone hub by 2030.

The PLI scheme comes as a follow-through of the liberalized Drone Rules, 2021 released by the Central Government on 25 August 2021. The PLI scheme and new drone rules are intended to catalyze super-normal growth in the upcoming drone sector.

Likely Impact of Recent Drone Initiatives

With new rules and the incentive scheme, the drones and drone components manufacturing industry may see an investment of over INR 5,000 crore over the next three years. 

The annual sales turnover of the drone manufacturing industry may grow from INR 60 crore in 2020-21 fold to over INR 900 crore in FY 2023-24. The drone manufacturing industry is expected to generate over 10,000 direct jobs over the next three years.

The drone services industry (operations, logistics, data processing, traffic management etc.) is far bigger in scale. It is expected to grow to over INR 30,000 crore in next three years. The drone services industry is expected to generate over five lakh jobs in three years.

SOURCE - PIB.GOV.IN

Government of India to Host the 1st Internet Governance Forum in India

Today, the India chapter of the United Nations based forum namely the Internet Governance Forum was announced. It's an Internet Governance policy discussion platform to bring representatives together from various groups, considering all at par to discuss public policy issues related to the Internet. This mode of engagement is referred to as the multi-stakeholder model of Internet Governance, which has been the key feature for the Internet’s success. The multi-stakeholder concept is well adopted IGF (Internet Governance Forum) under UN and by ICANN

India Internet The governance coordination committee for IIGF – 2021 features Shri Anil Kumar Jain as Chairman, Shri TV Ramchandran as Vice-Chairman, Shri Jaijeet Bhattacharya as Vice-Chairman, Dr. Rajat Moona as Vice-Chairman and approximately 12 members representing Government, Civil Society, Industries, trusts, Associations, etc.

India IGF 2021 will be planned for three days, starting from 20th Oct 2021. The theme of this year’s meeting is Inclusive Internet for Digital India.

Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Anil Kumar Jain, the Chairman of Coordination Committee, India Internet Governance Forum 2021 (IIGF) said --

India is the second-largest broadband subscription country in the world and also has the highest data consumption per user per month. Therefore, the aspirations of the Indians should be reflected in International policy formation and stakeholder discussion. India Internet Governance Forum is the correct initiative for the country to ensure that the growth of broadband adheres to the lifestyle and requirements of the Indian community. IIGF 2021 is adopting the multi-stakeholder concept in organizing the event as per the true spirit of global IGF. The coordination committee has apt representation from civil society, Government, Industry, Industrial association, trust, and other stakeholders.

Starting from August 2021, multiple Pre-IIGF engagement events will be held at several colleges and universities, as a precursor to the IIGF Inaugural event. The idea behind this is to engage the youth and students for their participation in October event and prepare the next generation to be part of policy formation.

To Predict Impact of Climate Change on Monsoon in India, Govt Developed Indigenous Climate Model

Government has developed an indigenous climate model to predict the impact of climate change on monsoon in the country. A state-of-the-art Earth System Model (ESM) has been developed at the Centre for Climate Change Research (CCCR), Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES). 

This was announced in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha by Dr Jitendra Singh, who is Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; Minister of State (Independent Charge) Earth Sciences; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space.

The model development was done by the scientists at IITM Pune in collaboration with international research community. This model is a state-of-the-art climate model with components of atmosphere, ocean including deep ocean circulation, Arctic and Antarctic sea-ice and ocean biogeochemistry.

This Earth System Model, known as the IITM-ESM, is the first climate model from South Asia that has contributed to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) sixth assessment report (AR6) and participated in the Coupled Model Inter-comparison Project –Phase 6 (CMIP6) experiments.

The IITM-ESM has capabilities to address key questions concerning the science of climate change, including reliable projections of the global and regional climate, Indian monsoon, hydrological cycle, sea-level changes, tropical ocean-atmosphere processes in a changing climate.

Govt To Set Up National Research Foundation To Improve Synergy Between R&D, Academia and Industry

National Research Foundation to strengthen the research ecosystem in the country

NRF envisages synergy between R&D, academia and industry

Government takes steps to promote use of regional languages in education, research and skill development under NEP-2020

The Government proposes to set up a National Research Foundation (NRF) to strengthen the research ecosystem in the country. NRF is being envisaged as an umbrella structure that will improve linkages between R&D, academia and industry. The total proposed outlay of National Research Foundation is Rs 50,000 crore over a period of five years.

One of the main objectives of NRF is to seed, grow and facilitate research at academic institutions, particularly at universities and colleges, where research capacity is currently in a nascent stage. It will also fund and support high-impact, large-scale, multi-investigator, multi-institution and, in some cases, interdisciplinary or multi-nation projects in collaboration with relevant Ministries, Departments, and other Governmental and non-Governmental entities, especially industry.

The Government announced the National Education Policy, 2020 (NEP) on 29-07-2020, after a gap of 34 years. The policy envisages transformational changes in the education sector. 

As per the information given by the Union Minister of Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan in the Lok Sabha today, one of the major recommendations in this regard is to promote more and more use of regional languages in education. 

In this regard, the Government has taken a number of steps including:

1. NEET exam for medical entrance which was being conducted in 11 languages will now be conducted in 13 languages.
2. JEE (Main) which was being conducted in 3 languages will now be conducted in 13 languages.
3. Technical education in 8 Regional languages in certain AICTE approved institutions from the academic session 2021-2022 on pilot basis.
   Translation of reference materials for courses of engineering in regional languages under SWAYAM platform, which has been offering online courses in disciplines such as Science, Engineering & Technology, Humanities & Social Sciences, Law, Management etc.
4. AICTE handbook (Approval Process Handbook 2021-22) for institutes that wish to apply for running programs in regional languages.
5. “AICTE Translation Automation Artificial Intelligence Tool” to translate English language online courses into eleven different languages like Hindi, Bengali, Marathi, Telugu, Tamil, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Punjabi, Assamese & Odia for access to a more significant number of students in the rural area.
6. MOU has been concluded between the Govt of Haryana and AICTE towards publishing of 1,000 books in Hindi.
7. Student Induction Program (SIP) , now a mandatory part of curriculum for students of first year in engineering, being delivered in regional language

MyGov Hosts Online Competition To Nurture Young Indian Writers and Authors

The initiative is getting enthusiastic response from Indian Youth; Nearly 5000 book proposals received till 19 July 2021

75 authors will be selected through the All India Contest being conducted through nbtindia.gov.in and MyGov.in

Consolidated scholarship of Rs. 50,000 per month for a period of six months per author to be paid under the Mentorship Scheme

In order to empower young minds & create a learning ecosystem in India that can nurture young learners for future leadership roles, MyGov platform under Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) in collaboration with National Book Trust (NBT), Ministry of Education, is hosting the Online Competition under PM’s Mentorship Scheme for Young Writers, seeking participation of young and aspiring Indian writers from across the globe. The online competition was launched on 4 June 2021 and it is open till 31 July 2021.

The PM’s Mentorship Scheme for Young Writers is garnering a lot of interest among the youth of the nation. To be part of this scheme, many aspiring and budding writers have come forward to submit their entries and benefit from this unique initiative of the government.

A total of 75 authors will be selected through an All India Contest being conducted through nbtindia.gov.in and MyGov.in . The applications can be submitted till 31 July and the winners will be announced on 15 August 2021. Nearly 5000 book proposals have already been received till 19 July 2021.

The Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education, launched the PM's Mentoring YUVA Scheme on 29 May 2021 with an objective to train young and budding authors (below 30 years of age) in order to promote reading, writing and book culture in the country, and project India and Indian writings globally.

Young, Upcoming and Versatile Authors (YUVA) is a part of India@75 Project (Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav) to bring to the fore the perspectives of the young generation of writers on themes like Unsung Heroes, Freedom Fighters, Unknown and Forgotten Places and their role in National Movement, and other related themes in on innovative and creative manner. This scheme will thus help to develop a stream of writers who can write on a spectrum of subjects to promote Indian heritage, culture and knowledge system.

The National Book Trust, India under the Ministry of Education as the implementing agency will ensure phase-wise execution of the Scheme under well-defined stages of mentorship. The books prepared under this scheme will be published by National Book Trust, India; and will also be translated into other Indian languages ensuring the exchange of culture and literature, thereby promoting ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’. The selected young authors will get opportunity to interact with some of the best and renowned authors, participate in literary festivals etc.

Key Highlights of YUVA (Young, Upcoming and Versatile Authors)
S.No.	Key Highlights
1.	A total of 75 authors will be selected through an All India Contest
2.	The selection will be made by a Committee to be constituted by NIT
3.	The contest will run from 4th June to 31st July 2021
4.	The contestants will be asked to submit a manuscript of 5,000 words to judge its suitability to develop as a proper book under the Mentorship Scheme
5.	The names of selected authors will be announced on 15 August 2021
6.	Based on mentorship, the selected authors will prepare manuscripts for final selection under the guidance of the nominated mentors
7.	The entries of the winners will be readied for publication by 15th December 2021
8.	The published books may be launched on 12th January 2022 on YUVA DIVAS or the National Youth Day
9.	The contest is open to citizens of India who are below the age of 30 years as on 1st June 2021. Indian nationals residing outside India who hold a PIO card (Person of Indian Origin) or NRIs (Non-resident Indian) holding Indian passports can also participate in the contest
10.	A consolidated scholarship of Rs. 50,000 per month for a period of six months per author will be paid under the Mentorship Scheme

With just a few days left for the contest to end, the aspirants can visit​ either https://innovateindia.mygov.in/yuva/ or https://t.co/eq86MucRVH for more details on how to participate, submit entries, FAQs, etc.

Soon A Govt Institution To Fund Electric Vehicles-focused Businesses

Amid climate change, Covid-induced economical downturn and rising fuel prices, Indian government is aiming to make electric vehicle business in India more lucrative and easy-to-set-up. For the same, the government is planning to set up institution to fund Electric Vehicles (EV) businesses.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari (Minister for Road Transport & Highways) has announced that the government is planning to set up an institution to fund businesses with a focus on electric vehicles. The government also aims to help provide loans to the public transport and commercial vehicle segment and for this the government will facilitate new financial instruments for lending.

The minister, while addressing the India Global Forum 2021 on Thursday, said the government is also planning to encourage construction equipment vehicles to go electric and promises to incentivize them.

Last month, the central government increased the subsidy on electric two-wheelers after which the incentive amount on purchase of electric two-wheeler has been increased to Rs 15,000 per kWh, which is Rs 5,000 per kWh more than the earlier subsidy-rate.

In order to bring down the cost of electric vehicles and make it more affordable for the masses the government is making efforts that include supporting domestic electric vehicle manufacturers and startups.

Besides, India's research institutions are also working on an alternative battery technology for electric vehicles, told the minister. Notably, the battery cost is 50% of the total cost of an electric vehicle.

As per a recent report, India's electric vehicle financing industry is projected to be worth Rs 3.7 lakh crore in 2030.

Centre Planning To Privatize 10 PSUs and Sell their Stake; NITI Aayog To Finalize List - Report

The central government is planning to privatize 10 public sector undertakings (PSUs) and sell their stake. Sources told CNBC-TV18 that the offer for sale (OFS) option can also be used for this. The cabinet secretary has sought timelines and other information on the strategic investment.

The Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM) and NITI Aayog have been given the responsibility of making a list of PSUs in which the government can sell stake.

According to sources, these PSUs may include Neyveli Lignite, KIOCL, SJVN, HUDCO, MMTC, General Insurance Company, New India Assurance. 

Apart from this, shares of three more PSUs - Indian Railway Finance Corp, Rail Vikas Nigam and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders can be resold under the minimum public shareholding norms. OFS for these three is likely to come in the next financial year.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had set a target of raising Rs 1.75 lakh crore through stake sale in government companies in this year's budget. However, due to the second wave of the epidemic, this plan of the government is difficult to succeed. In the last few years, many of the government's goals of raising funds by selling stake in state-owned companies have not been met.

On the other hand, NITI Aayog has submitted the names of public sector banks which are to be privatized in the current financial year under the disinvestment process to the Core Committee of Secretaries on Disinvestment.