Context

Today's updates from the Press Information Bureau (PIB) and PRS Legislative Research highlight significant government initiatives, economic updates, and upcoming conferences that are relevant for UPSC aspirants.

Highlights

• National Health Mission (NHM): The government has announced an increase in funding for the NHM to enhance healthcare infrastructure in rural areas.
• Skill India Mission: A new phase of the Skill India Mission has been launched to focus on digital skills and entrepreneurship among youth.
• International Solar Alliance (ISA): An upcoming conference on solar energy innovations is scheduled, promoting collaboration among member countries.
• Economic Update: The GDP growth rate for the current fiscal year has been projected at 6.5%, reflecting a steady recovery post-pandemic.
• Green India Mission: The government has initiated a new scheme under the Green India Mission to promote afforestation and biodiversity conservation.

Relevance

These updates are crucial for UPSC aspirants as they reflect the government's priorities and initiatives in health, skill development, renewable energy, and economic recovery. Understanding these themes is essential for both Prelims and Mains examinations.

UPSC Prelims MCQs

1. Which of the following schemes focuses on enhancing healthcare infrastructure in rural areas?
   • A) Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana
   • B) National Health Mission
   • C) Skill India Mission
   • D) Digital India Initiative
2. The newly launched phase of which mission emphasizes digital skills and entrepreneurship?
   • A) Atal Innovation Mission
   • B) Skill India Mission
   • C) Make in India
   • D) Start-up India
3. What is the projected GDP growth rate for the current fiscal year as per the latest economic update?
   • A) 5.0%
   • B) 6.0%
   • C) 6.5%
   • D) 7.0%
4. Which initiative is associated with promoting afforestation and biodiversity conservation?
   • A) Green India Mission
   • B) National Biodiversity Action Plan
   • C) Swachh Bharat Mission
   • D) Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
5. What is the main focus of the upcoming International Solar Alliance conference?
   • A) Renewable energy financing
   • B) Solar energy innovations
   • C) Climate change adaptation
   • D) Global energy policies

UPSC Mains Question

Discuss the significance of the National Health Mission and the Skill India Mission in the context of India's socio-economic development. How do these initiatives contribute to the overall growth of the nation?