Government Policies and Initiatives Frequently Asked in UPSC Paper II

There are several government policies and initiatives that are frequently asked about in the UPSC Paper II. These policies and initiatives cover a wide range of areas, such as governance, social welfare, economic development, and environmental conservation. Here are some of the key policies and initiatives that candidates should be familiar with:

1. Swachh Bharat Abhiyan:
- Launched in 2014, this initiative aims to make India clean and open defecation free by 2019.
- It focuses on constructing toilets, promoting hygiene practices, and creating awareness about the importance of cleanliness.

2. Digital India:
- Launched in 2015, this initiative aims to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.
- It focuses on providing digital infrastructure, increasing digital literacy, and delivering government services digitally.

3. Make in India:
- Launched in 2014, this initiative aims to promote manufacturing and attract foreign direct investment (FDI) in India.
- It focuses on improving ease of doing business, skill development, and creating employment opportunities.

4. Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana:
- Launched in 2014, this financial inclusion program aims to provide banking services to the unbanked population of the country.
- It focuses on opening bank accounts, providing access to credit, and promoting financial literacy.

5. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana:
- Launched in 2016, this crop insurance scheme aims to provide financial support to farmers in case of crop failure.
- It focuses on reducing the burden of premium on farmers and ensuring quick settlement of claims.

6. Goods and Services Tax (GST):
- Implemented in 2017, GST is a comprehensive indirect tax reform that aims to create a unified and transparent tax regime in the country.
- It focuses on simplifying the tax structure, eliminating cascading effect, and promoting ease of doing business.

7. National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA):
- Enacted in 2005, NREGA guarantees 100 days of employment to rural households in India.
- It focuses on providing livelihood security, promoting rural development, and enhancing social inclusion.

8. Beti Bachao Beti Padhao:
- Launched in 2015, this initiative aims to address the declining child sex ratio and promote the education of girls.
- It focuses on preventing gender-biased sex-selective practices, improving access to education, and empowering girls.

In conclusion, candidates appearing for the UPSC Paper II should have a good understanding of these government policies and initiatives. They should be able to explain the objectives, key features, and impact of these initiatives on various sectors of the economy and society.