Context

Today's updates from the Press Information Bureau (PIB) and PRS Legislative Research highlight significant developments in government schemes, policies, and economic updates that are crucial for UPSC preparation.

Highlights

• New Education Policy (NEP) Implementation: The government has announced a series of workshops aimed at training teachers and educational administrators on the effective implementation of the NEP.
• PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan: An update on the progress of infrastructure projects under the Gati Shakti initiative, emphasizing multimodal connectivity and economic growth.
• Digital India Initiative: Launch of new digital literacy programs aimed at empowering rural populations and enhancing digital skills across the country.
• Climate Action Plan: The Ministry of Environment has released guidelines for states to prepare their own climate action plans in line with national commitments.
• Economic Growth Forecast: The Reserve Bank of India has revised its GDP growth forecast for the current fiscal year, reflecting optimism in the recovery post-pandemic.

Relevance

These updates are pertinent for UPSC aspirants as they cover key areas of governance, economic policies, and social initiatives that are frequently examined in both Prelims and Mains. Understanding these developments can provide insights into the government's priorities and strategies.

UPSC Prelims MCQs

1. Which of the following initiatives is aimed at improving digital literacy in rural areas?
   • A) PM Gati Shakti
   • B) Digital India Initiative
   • C) National Education Policy
   • D) Make in India
2. The PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan focuses primarily on:
   • A) Health infrastructure
   • B) Education reforms
   • C) Multimodal connectivity
   • D) Agricultural productivity
3. Which ministry is responsible for releasing guidelines for state-level climate action plans?
   • A) Ministry of Home Affairs
   • B) Ministry of Environment
   • C) Ministry of Finance
   • D) Ministry of Agriculture
4. What is the focus of the new workshops announced under the NEP?
   • A) Infrastructure development
   • B) Teacher training
   • C) Student enrollment
   • D) Curriculum changes
5. The Reserve Bank of India has revised its GDP growth forecast for which fiscal year?
   • A) 2021-22
   • B) 2022-23
   • C) 2023-24
   • D) 2024-25

UPSC Mains Question

Discuss the significance of the New Education Policy in transforming the Indian education system. How does it align with the goals of the Digital India Initiative and the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan?