PIB Summary- 19th December, 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

PM-DAKSH YOJANA

Context

The PM-DAKSH Scheme aims to enhance the skills of marginalized groups, including SC, OBC, DNT, EWS, and Safai Karamcharis, for better employability.

Launched with a budget of Rs. 450 crores for five years, the scheme targets training 2.71 lakh candidates.

As of 2023-24, 1.55 lakh candidates have been successfully trained.

PM-DAKSH Scheme

• Full name: Pradhan Mantri Dakshta Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi (PM-DAKSH) Yojana
• Launched: 2020-21
• Ministry: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
• Objective: To enhance the skill levels of marginalized groups to make them employable for wage or self-employment.

Target Groups:

• Scheduled Castes (SCs)
• Other Backward Classes (OBCs)
• Economically Weaker Sections (EWS)
• De-notified Tribes (DNTs)
• Safai Karamcharis (including waste pickers)

Components:

• Short-term training programs
• Long-term training programs
• Up-skilling/Re-skilling programs
• Entrepreneurship development programs

Benefits:

• Skill development training from certified institutions
• Stipend during training
• Certification upon successful completion
• Placement assistance

Significance:

• Addresses social inequality by providing opportunities for marginalized communities.
• Contributes to the development of a skilled workforce in India.
• Empowers individuals with skills for economic independence.

Aims of Anusandhan National Research Foundation

Context

The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) aims to enhance India’s research landscape by raising Rs. 50,000 crore between 2023-28, with Rs. 14,000 crore from the Central Government.

Its Governing Board, including prominent global experts, will guide strategic R&D initiatives.

Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF)

• Established: 2023 by an Act of Parliament (ANRF Act, 2023)
• Headquarters: New Delhi, India
• Objective: To seed, grow and promote Research and Development (R&D) and foster a culture of research and innovation throughout India.

Functions:

• Funding research projects across various disciplines.
• Creating a national framework for research and innovation.
• Fostering collaborations between academia, industry, and government.
• Promoting international research collaborations.
• Developing research infrastructure and human resources.

Focus Areas:

• Natural sciences (including mathematical sciences)
• Engineering and technology
• Environmental and earth sciences
• Health and agriculture
• Humanities and social sciences with scientific and technological interfaces

Governance:

• Governing Board chaired by the Prime Minister of India.
• Executive Council responsible for day-to-day operations.

Funding:

• Government allocation
• Contributions from public and private sectors, philanthropists, and international organizations.

Significance:

• Aims to position India as a global leader in research and innovation.
• Seeks to address national priorities and societal challenges through research.
• Expected to boost economic growth and sustainable development.