UPSC PT Pointers

The latest Financial Sector Assessment (FSA) Report has stated that India is progressing steadily toward its vision of becoming a $30 trillion economy by 2047. The report highlights the increasing resilience and inclusiveness of India’s financial system. About the Financial Sector Assessment (FSA) Report The Financial Sector Assessment (FSA) Report is published by the World Bank. It evaluates the strengths, vulnerabilities, and overall performance of a country’s financial s

Payment Aggregator (PA) and Payment Gateway

What is a Payment Aggregator (PA)? A Payment Aggregator (PA), also known as a merchant aggregator, is a third-party service provider that enables merchants (businesses) to accept online payments from customers. This service is typically integrated into websites or mobile apps for smooth transaction processing. Functions and Features of Payment Aggregators: Payment Options: PAs provide a variety of payment methods such as debit/credit cards, UPI, bank transfers, e-wallets, and

State Mining Readiness Index (SMRI) 2025

The Ministry of Mines has recently released the State Mining Readiness Index (SMRI), a tool designed to assess and benchmark the performance of Indian states in the mining sector. The index aims to foster healthy competition among states, accelerate the pace of mining reforms, and promote sustainable resource management. The SMRI 2025 evaluates states based on key parameters related to auction performance, early mine operationalization, exploration focus, and sustainable mining practices, pa

National Energy Conservation Awards (NECA) 2025

The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has recently announced the 35th National Energy Conservation Awards (NECA) 2025, inviting applications to recognize and honor outstanding contributions in energy efficiency and conservation across various sectors in India. About the National Energy Conservation Awards The National Energy Conservation Awards (NECA) is one of the most prestigious national platforms aimed at recognizing excellence, innovation, and leadership in energy efficiency and c

Naying Hydroelectric Project

The Naying Hydroelectric Project in Arunachal Pradesh is a proposed 1,000 MW hydropower initiative on the Siyom (Yomgo) River, which has recently been in the news due to the upcoming environmental public hearing scheduled for November 12. About the Naying Hydroelectric Project: Location: The Naying Hydroelectric Project is planned on the Siyom River (also called Yomgo River) in Arunachal Pradesh, a state known for its significant hydropower potential due to its abundant river s

Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana

The Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY) is a major new initiative by the Indian government aimed at transforming the agricultural sector, especially in regions facing significant challenges. Key Points of PMDDKY: Launch and Budget: The scheme was launched recently alongside the Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses. Total outlay: ?35,440 crore for both initiatives. Annual budget: ?24,000 crore over six years (2025-26 to 2030-31), w

Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board

The recent move by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) to invite stakeholder and consumer comments on an LPG interoperability framework is an innovative step in improving the convenience and accessibility of LPG refills for consumers. If implemented, this framework would allow households to draw LPG refills from distributors of other PSU oil companies, much like the concept of mobile number portability (MNP), enhancing competition and consumer choice. About the Petroleu

Payments Regulatory Board

The establishment of the Payments Regulatory Board (PRB) by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) marks a significant step in strengthening the governance and oversight of India’s payment systems. Composition of the PRB: Chair: The RBI Governor will chair the PRB, which aligns with the central role the RBI plays in regulating and supervising the country’s payment systems. RBI Members: Two additional RBI representatives, including the Deputy Governor and the Executiv

AgriEnIcs Programme

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) recently announced the transfer of technology under the AgriEnIcs Programme. This marks a significant step in advancing technological integration in agriculture and environmental management in India, with the aim to enhance precision in these sectors. About the AgriEnIcs Programme The AgriEnIcs Programme is a national initiative launched by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), which seeks to harne

Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT)

Recently, the Chief Justice of India praised the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) for its significant contribution to the justice delivery system, especially marking its 84th anniversary. About the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) is a quasi-judicial institution established in 1941. It is specialized in handling appeals related to direct tax disputes and is one of the most important bodies in India’s taxation system. History &a