Chapter G — Social Justice & Welfare

Coverage: 1 January 2025 – 3 June 2026 Sources: MoSJ&E, MoTA, MoWCD, MoRD, NITI Aayog, PIB, PRS, NCST, NCSC, NCBC, National Commission for Women, Economic Survey 2025-26, Union Budget 2025-26 & 2026-27, UNDP HDR 2025, NHRC, The Hindu, Indian Express, LiveLaw, Down To Earth, EPW. Static link backbone: NCERT Class 11 Indian Society + Class 12 Social Change; Laxmikanth (Social Justice chapter); India Year Book 2026 (Social Welfare section); Economic Survey Vol. 2 (Inclusive Development chapter).

Contents (35 Topics)

Scheduled Castes — Sub-categorisation (SC sub-classification) Supreme Court 2024
Scheduled Tribes — Forest Rights Act (FRA) implementation status 2025-26
OBC — NCBC (National Commission for Backward Classes) reconstitution + creamy layer revision
EWS reservation — Supreme Court Janhit Abhiyan (2022) + 103rd Amendment implementation
Lateral Entry controversy (2024-25) — reservation in lateral hires
PM Vishwakarma Yojana — artisans and traditional craftworkers
Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) — PM-JANMAN mission
Manual Scavenging — Prohibition Act + Safaimitra Suraksha Challenge + NAMASTE
Bonded Labour (Abolition) System Act — rehabilitation status
Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016 — implementation + accessibility standards
Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act 2019 — National Council + SMILE scheme
Senior Citizens — SACRED portal + PM Vaya Vandana Yojana + Maintenance Act amendments
Child Protection — POCSO Act amendments + NCPCR + Juvenile Justice (Amendment)
PM POSHAN (Mid-Day Meal) — revised norms + nutritional outcomes
Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) / Saksham Anganwadi 2.0
POSHAN Abhiyaan 2.0 — malnutrition targets vs NFHS-5/6 reality
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao — sex ratio at birth trends
PM Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) — maternity benefit expansion
One Stop Centre (OSC) + Women Helpline 181 + Nirbhaya Fund
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) — sexual offences provisions
MGNREGA — Budget allocations, completion rates, wage revision
PM Awas Yojana — Gramin (PMAY-G) + Urban 2.0 targets
DAY-NRLM — Self-Help Groups + bank linkage + livelihood missions
Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN)
Social Security Code 2020 — gig workers, platform workers provisions
e-Shram portal — unorganised workers registration
PM-SVANidhi — street vendor micro-credit scheme
Ayushman Bharat — PMJAY expansion (above 70 years) + Health Account
Right to Food — debates on universalisation
Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) — India's progress
Human Development Index (HDI) 2025 — India ranking
Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNTs) — welfare schemes
Anti-trafficking — draft Trafficking in Persons Bill + inter-state rescue operations
Domestic Violence Act — implementation + legal aid
Caste Census demand — Bihar Caste Survey 2023 + national debate

1. SC Sub-Categorisation — Supreme Court 2024

In Brief: In State of Punjab v. Davinder Singh (August 2024), a 7-judge Constitution Bench (6:1) held that states can sub-classify Scheduled Castes for reservation purposes — overruled the 5-judge bench decision in E.V. Chinnaiah (2004) which held SC list is a homogeneous class.

Majority view (CJI Chandrachud + 5): States may sub-classify SCs to ensure that most-backward among SCs get proportionate benefit; Article 14 (equality) permits reasonable classification within SCs.
Dissent (Justice Bela Trivedi): Presidential list under Article 341 is sacrosanct; sub-classification violates the constitutional scheme.
Impact: States like Punjab (Valmiki/Mazhabi Sikh vs others), Andhra Pradesh (Madigas vs Malas), and Tamil Nadu can now create sub-quotas within SC reservation.
Article 341: President notifies SC list for each state; Parliament can include/exclude (but not states).
Creamy layer within SCs/STs: Judgment also noted that a creamy-layer principle may be applied to SCs/STs (obiter, not binding ratio).
Political significance: Demand for sub-classification longstanding from Madiga communities (AP/TS), Valmikis (Punjab), Arunthathiyars (TN).
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. Davinder Singh (2024): 7-judge bench; states CAN sub-classify SCs
2. Overruled E.V. Chinnaiah (2004)
3. Article 341: President notifies SC list
4. Sub-classification ≠ de-scheduling; just internal prioritisation
Trap areas: Sub-classification is NOT the same as removing a community from the SC list. Only Parliament can modify Article 341 list. The judgment allows states to prioritise, not exclude.
One-line revision: Davinder Singh 2024 (7-judge, 6:1): states can sub-classify SCs; overruled Chinnaiah 2004; Art 341 list unchanged.

2. Forest Rights Act (FRA) — Implementation Status

In Brief: Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 — recognises Individual Forest Rights (IFR) and Community Forest Rights (CFR) over forest land. Implemented since 2008. By March 2026: ~23.5 lakh individual titles distributed; ~1.9 lakh community titles.

Key rights: Right to hold and live on forest land (IFR up to 4 ha); CFR for community forest resources management; right to collect minor forest produce (MFP).
Implementation gap: Only ~50% of claims filed have been approved; high rejection rate in many states (UP, Gujarat, Rajasthan); tribals and OTFDs face eviction pressure.
Supreme Court (Feb 2019): Directed eviction of rejected claimants — stayed after nationwide protests; matter pending.
TRIFED + Van Dhan Vikas Kendra: MSP for MFP (Minor Forest Produce) — guarantees price for 73 MFP items; Van Dhan centres for value addition.
CFR (Community Forest Rights): Maharashtra leads (~12,000 CFR titles); empowers Gram Sabhas to manage forests.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. FRA 2006; operational from 2008
2. IFR: max 4 hectares per family
3. CFR: community management of forest resources
4. Gram Sabha = authority for FRA claims (not Forest Dept)
5. ~23.5 lakh IFR titles + ~1.9 lakh CFR titles (March 2026)
Trap areas: FRA covers both STs AND Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (OTFDs — must prove 3 generations of habitation). Gram Sabha recommends claims; Sub-Divisional Committee verifies; District Committee approves. Forest Department has NO veto.
One-line revision: FRA 2006: IFR (4 ha) + CFR; Gram Sabha authority; 23.5L IFR + 1.9L CFR titles; MSP for 73 MFP items.

3. OBC — NCBC Reconstitution + Creamy Layer

In Brief: National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) — constitutional body since 102nd Amendment, 2018 (Article 338B). Replaces old statutory NCBC under 1993 Act. Advises on inclusion/exclusion of communities in OBC list.

Creamy Layer revision (2025): Income ceiling for OBC creamy layer revised to ₹12 lakh per annum (from ₹8 lakh, which was unchanged since 2017). Effective April 2025.
103rd Amendment (2019): EWS reservation — NCBC expressed concern about overlap with OBC benefits.
OBC reservation: 27% in central educational institutions and government jobs (Mandal, 1992; Indra Sawhney).
Central OBC list: ~2,633 communities; state lists vary.
Sub-categorisation of OBCs: Rohini Commission (2017) submitted report (2023); recommended dividing OBCs into 4 sub-groups; awaiting government decision.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. NCBC: constitutional body (Art 338B, 102nd Amendment 2018)
2. Creamy layer: ₹12 lakh (revised 2025)
3. OBC reservation: 27% (Mandal/Indra Sawhney 1992)
4. Rohini Commission: OBC sub-categorisation
Trap areas: NCBC under 102nd Amendment has advisory power (not binding). Including/excluding from Central OBC list is done by President (Article 342A) on Parliament's recommendation. State OBC lists are separate.
One-line revision: NCBC = Art 338B (102nd Amdt 2018); creamy layer ₹12L (2025); 27% OBC quota; Rohini Commission for sub-categorisation.

4. EWS Reservation — 103rd Amendment

In Brief: 103rd Constitutional Amendment (2019) — inserted Articles 15(6) and 16(6) — provides 10% reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) among general (unreserved) category in education and employment.

Janhit Abhiyan v. Union of India (November 2022): 5-judge bench upheld 103rd Amendment (3:2). Majority: EWS reservation does not violate basic structure; exclusion of SC/ST/OBC from EWS is permissible.
Dissent (Justices Bhat & Lalit): Exclusion of SC/ST/OBC from EWS violates equality; economic criterion alone insufficient.
EWS criteria: Family income < ₹8 lakh/year AND agricultural land < 5 acres AND residential flat < 1,000 sq ft AND residential plot < 100/200 sq yards (municipality/other).
Implementation (2025-26): EWS quota operational in central universities, UPSC, SSC, banking; ~3.5 lakh beneficiaries in central jobs since 2019.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. 103rd Amendment (2019): Articles 15(6) and 16(6)
2. 10% EWS reservation in education + employment
3. Upheld in Janhit Abhiyan (2022) — 3:2
4. EWS = income < ₹8 lakh + land/property ceilings
5. SC/ST/OBC excluded from EWS category
Trap areas: EWS reservation is over and above 50% ceiling (total = ~59.5%). The 50% ceiling (Indra Sawhney 1992) was not disturbed — court held economic backwardness is a new basis distinct from social. EWS income limit (₹8L) is same as OBC creamy layer amount before 2025 revision.
One-line revision: 103rd Amdt (2019) = 10% EWS quota; upheld 3:2 in Janhit Abhiyan 2022; above 50% cap; SC/ST/OBC excluded from EWS.

5. Lateral Entry Controversy (2024-25)

In Brief: UPSC advertised 45 lateral entry posts (Joint Secretary and Director level) in August 2024 — recruited domain experts directly into civil services without UPSC exam. Controversy erupted over lack of reservation in lateral recruitment.

Government response (September 2024): Withdrew the advertisement; ordered that future lateral entry must follow reservation norms (SC/ST/OBC/EWS).
UPSC's earlier lateral entries (2019-21): 9 appointees at JS level from private sector/academia (no reservation applied then).
Constitutional position: Article 16(4) enables reservation in appointments; reservation in lateral entry was not explicitly provided earlier because posts were treated as "single post" appointments.
Parliamentary debate: Opposition demanded that lateral entry bypasses constitutional mandate of equality and social justice; ruling side emphasised domain expertise needs.
NITI Aayog (2017): First recommended lateral entry for domain expertise at senior bureaucratic positions.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. Lateral entry: direct recruitment of specialists without UPSC exam
2. Controversy: no reservation was provided in 2024 ad
3. Government withdrew and mandated reservation compliance
4. Art 16(4): state can provide reservation in public employment
Trap areas: Lateral entry is NOT new (Manmohan Singh's 2005 government also had contractual specialists). The 2024 issue was specifically about reservation not being applied.
One-line revision: Lateral entry: 45 posts, 2024 ad withdrawn; no reservation applied; govt mandated future compliance with Art 16(4) reservation.

6. PM Vishwakarma Yojana — Artisans & Craftworkers

In Brief: PM Vishwakarma launched September 2023 — Central Sector scheme for traditional artisans and craftsmen working in 18 trades (carpentry, blacksmithing, goldsmithing, pottery, masonry, weaving, etc.). Outlay: ₹13,000 crore (FY24-28). Aims to provide recognition, skill upgradation, toolkit, credit access, and digital/market linkage.

Components:
1. PM Vishwakarma Certificate + ID card
2. Skill Training (Basic: 5-7 days + Advanced: 15 days) with ₹500/day stipend
3. Toolkit incentive: up to ₹15,000
4. Collateral-free credit: ₹1 lakh (1st tranche) + ₹2 lakh (2nd) at 5% interest (8% subsidised)
5. Digital empowerment: GeM onboarding + e-commerce
6. Brand + marketing support
18 trades: Carpenter, Boat maker, Armourer, Blacksmith, Hammer & toolkit, Locksmith, Goldsmith, Potter, Sculptor, Cobbler, Mason, Basket/Mat/Broom maker, Doll & toy maker, Barber, Garland maker, Washerman, Tailor, Fishing net maker.
Eligibility: Working with hands/tools in 18 trades; registered on PM Vishwakarma portal; household-based (one member per family).
Progress (March 2026): ~93 lakh registrations; ~42 lakh certified; ~₹7,200 crore loans disbursed.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. 18 trades covered; Central Sector scheme
2. ₹13,000 crore (FY24-28)
3. Collateral-free credit: ₹1L + ₹2L at 5%
4. Toolkit incentive: ₹15,000
5. PM Vishwakarma Certificate for recognition
Trap areas: PM Vishwakarma is different from Stand-Up India or PM Mudra (those are for entrepreneurs). Vishwakarma is specifically for traditional artisan trades, NOT for new-age businesses. It is family-based (one beneficiary per household).
One-line revision: PM Vishwakarma (Sep 2023) = 18 trades; ₹13,000 cr; ₹15K toolkit + ₹3L credit at 5%; 93L registrations.

7. PVTGs — PM-JANMAN Mission

In Brief: Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) — 75 tribal groups across 18 states/UTs identified based on: pre-agriculture technology level, stagnant/declining population, low literacy. PM-JANMAN (Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan) launched November 2023 with ₹24,104 crore (2023-26) for holistic PVTG development.

11 interventions: Pucca houses (PM Awas+), road connectivity, piped water (JJM), electricity, mobile towers, Anganwadi, school, health sub-centre, Van Dhan Vikas Kendra, skill training, livelihood.
Target: Saturate basic facilities in ~22,000 PVTG habitations across 220+ districts.
Progress (March 2026): ~3.2 lakh pucca houses sanctioned; ~8,500 PVTG habitations connected with roads; ~6,000 habitations with piped water.
Examples of PVTGs: Jarawa, Sentinelese, Onge (Andaman); Birhor (Jharkhand); Dongria Kondh (Odisha); Toda (Tamil Nadu); Cholanaickan (Kerala); Sahariya (MP/Rajasthan).
Criteria for PVTG classification:
1. Pre-agriculture level of technology
2. Stagnant or declining population
3. Low literacy
4. Subsistence-level economy
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. 75 PVTGs in 18 states/UTs
2. PM-JANMAN: ₹24,104 crore (2023-26)
3. Criteria: pre-agriculture tech, declining population, low literacy
4. 11 interventions for saturation approach
Trap areas: PVTGs are a subset of STs (not a separate category). 75 groups notified by MoTA based on Dhebar Commission (1960-61) criteria. The list was last revised in 1993 (no additions since). Sentinelese are PVTGs (and also uncontacted — any contact is prohibited under Andaman regulations).
One-line revision: 75 PVTGs in 18 states; PM-JANMAN ₹24,104 cr (2023-26); 11 interventions; saturation in 22,000 habitations.

8. Manual Scavenging — NAMASTE Scheme

In Brief: Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013 bans manual cleaning of insanitary latrines, sewers, septic tanks. Despite the ban, deaths in sewer/septic tank cleaning persist (~350 deaths in 2023-25). NAMASTE (National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem) launched to end hazardous cleaning.

NAMASTE (2023-): Joint scheme of MoSJ&E + MoHUA; replaces older schemes. Provides: identification of sewer/septic tank workers → skill training → mechanised equipment → health insurance → livelihood diversification.
Safaimitra Suraksha Challenge: MoHUA initiative; cities pledge mechanised cleaning; no manual entry into sewers/septic tanks.
Key data: ~58,000 identified manual scavengers eligible for rehabilitation; ~340 sanitation workers died in sewer/septic accidents 2019-2024 (NCSK data).
National Safai Karamcharis Commission (NCSK): Monitors implementation; statutory body under 1994 Act.
Robot/machine-based cleaning: Bandicoot (Kerala startup), robotic arms for manhole cleaning deployed in 500+ ULBs.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. Manual Scavenging Prohibition Act: 2013 (replaced 1993 law)
2. NAMASTE: MoSJ&E + MoHUA joint scheme
3. NCSK: monitors manual scavenging prohibition
4. ~350 sewer deaths despite ban (2023-25)
Trap areas: Manual scavenging is banned under 2013 Act (not just 1993). The law applies to sewers AND septic tanks. Employing manual scavengers is a criminal offence. NAMASTE replaces the Self-Employment Scheme for Manual Scavengers.
One-line revision: Manual scavenging banned (2013 Act); NAMASTE = mechanised sanitation (MoSJ&E + MoHUA); NCSK monitors; ~350 deaths persist.

9. Bonded Labour — Rehabilitation Status

In Brief: Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976 abolished bonded labour; provides for rehabilitation. Despite the law, bonded labour persists in brick kilns, agriculture, domestic work, and sex trafficking. Central Sector Scheme for Rehabilitation provides ₹1-3 lakh per rescued bonded labourer.

Revised rehabilitation (2021): ₹1 lakh for adult male; ₹2 lakh for women/children; ₹3 lakh for special cases (trafficking, minors in hazardous work).
District Vigilance Committees: Mandated under the Act; monitor and identify bonded labour.
Data (2020-26): ~3,14,000 bonded labourers identified + rehabilitated since 1976; actual numbers estimated 10x higher.
State performance: Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan lead in identification; many states report zero cases (under-reporting).
International linkage: ILO Forced Labour Convention (C29); India's SDG 8.7 commitment — end forced labour by 2030.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. Bonded Labour Act 1976; linked to Art 23 (prohibition of forced labour)
2. Rehabilitation: ₹1-3 lakh per person
3. District Vigilance Committees: identification mechanism
4. Persists in brick kilns, agriculture, domestic work
Trap areas: Article 23 prohibits forced labour (not just bonded labour). Bonded labour includes debt bondage specifically. The law is a Central Act but implementation is by state machinery.
One-line revision: Bonded Labour Act 1976 (Art 23); rehabilitation ₹1-3L; District Vigilance Committees; persists despite abolition; ILO C29.

10. Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016

In Brief: RPwD Act 2016 (replaced Persons with Disabilities Act 1995) expanded disability categories from 7 to 21 (including acid attack, intellectual disability, specific learning disabilities, cerebral palsy). Provides 4% reservation in government jobs (up from 3%) and 5% in higher education.

21 disabilities: Physical (blindness, low vision, leprosy-cured, locomotor, dwarfism, intellectual, mental illness), Hearing (deaf, hard of hearing), Neuro-developmental (autism, cerebral palsy, learning disability), Blood disorders (thalassemia, sickle cell, haemophilia), Multiple disabilities, Others (acid attack, Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis).
UDID (Unique Disability ID): National database; mandatory for availing benefits; ~1.5 crore UDIDs issued by 2026.
Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan, 2015): Built environment + transport + ICT accessibility.
Budget 2026-27: ₹1,225 crore for Department of Empowerment of PwD.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. RPwD Act 2016: 21 categories (up from 7 in 1995 Act)
2. 4% reservation in govt jobs; 5% in higher education
3. UDID: Unique Disability ID for all PwDs
4. Acid attack survivors included as disabled
Trap areas: The 2016 Act covers 21 categories; the government can add more via notification. 4% reservation applies to Group A, B, C, D — divided among benchmark disabilities. Persons with 40%+ disability get benchmark status.
One-line revision: RPwD Act 2016: 21 disabilities; 4% job reservation + 5% education; UDID; replaced 1995 Act (7 categories).

11. Transgender Persons Act 2019 + SMILE Scheme

In Brief: Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019 — provides right to self-perceived gender identity (with District Magistrate certificate), prohibition of discrimination, and welfare measures. National Council for Transgender Persons constituted under MoSJ&E.

SMILE (Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise): Umbrella scheme for transgender persons + beggars; includes shelter homes (Garima Greh), scholarships, skill development, free SRS (Sex Reassignment Surgery) at government hospitals.
Criticism: Act requires DM certificate for gender identity (activists demand simple self-identification as in NALSA judgment 2014). Definition of "transgender" in Act is considered narrow.
NALSA v. Union of India (2014): Supreme Court recognised third gender; directed reservation under OBC category (not implemented fully).
National Portal for Transgender Persons: Online certificate issuance; ~60,000 certificates issued by March 2026.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. Act 2019: self-perceived identity via DM certificate
2. NALSA (2014): SC recognised third gender
3. SMILE scheme: Garima Greh + scholarships + SRS
4. National Council for Transgender Persons under MoSJ&E
Trap areas: The Act requires DM certificate (not self-declaration alone as activists demand). NALSA recommended OBC reservation for TG persons — not fully implemented. The Act criminalises begging by transgender (controversial provision).
One-line revision: TG Act 2019: DM certificate for identity; NALSA 2014 = SC recognised 3rd gender; SMILE = welfare umbrella; National Council under MoSJ&E.

12. Senior Citizens — Welfare Measures

In Brief: India's 60+ population: ~15.3 crore (2025, ~10.5% of population), projected to rise to 20% by 2050. Key measures: Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act 2007 (amended 2019 — expanded to include grandparents, childless senior citizens); PM Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY) ended March 2023; SACRED (Senior Able Citizens for Re-Employment in Dignity) portal.

SACRED portal (MoSJ&E): Connects senior citizens (60+) seeking employment/volunteering with organisations; ~3.5 lakh registered.
Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY): Umbrella scheme covering: Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSC), Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (assistive devices), SACRED, Elder Line (helpline 14567).
National Policy on Older Persons (2024 draft): Revises 1999 policy; focus on health insurance, pension, digital literacy for elderly.
Ayushman Bharat extension (Sep 2024): PMJAY coverage expanded to all citizens above 70 years (regardless of income) — additional ~6 crore elderly beneficiaries.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. Maintenance Act 2007 (amended 2019): includes grandparents
2. SACRED: re-employment portal for 60+ citizens
3. Elder Line: 14567 (toll-free helpline)
4. PMJAY extended to all above 70 (September 2024)
Trap areas: PMVVY has ended (not active). Ayushman Bharat for 70+ is universal (no income ceiling), unlike regular PMJAY which targets bottom 40%.
One-line revision: Senior citizens ~15.3 cr (10.5%); PMJAY for all 70+; SACRED portal; Elder Line 14567; Maintenance Act 2007.

13. Child Protection — POCSO & Juvenile Justice

In Brief: Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act 2012 (amended 2019) — gender-neutral; enhanced penalties including death for aggravated penetrative assault on child below 12. Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act 2015 (amended 2021) — transfers adoption authority to District Magistrates.

POCSO amendments (2019): Death penalty for aggravated penetrative assault on child below 12; enhanced penalties across categories; added child pornography provisions.
JJ Act 2021 amendment: DMs empowered to issue adoption orders (earlier only courts); Children-in-Conflict-with-Law between 16-18 may be tried as adults for heinous crimes (Juvenile Justice Board recommends).
NCPCR (National Commission for Protection of Child Rights): Statutory body under CPCR Act 2005; monitors child rights.
NCRB data (2024): ~65,000 POCSO cases registered in 2023; conviction rate ~35%; pendency remains high.
Mission Vatsalya (erstwhile Child Protection Services): MoWCD scheme — funds Child Welfare Committees, Juvenile Justice Boards, child care institutions.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. POCSO 2012 (amended 2019): gender-neutral; death penalty for aggravated assault on <12
2. JJ Act 2015 (amended 2021): DM can issue adoption orders
3. NCPCR: statutory body under CPCR Act 2005
4. Mission Vatsalya: MoWCD child protection umbrella
Trap areas: POCSO is gender-neutral (protects all children regardless of gender). JJ Act treats 16-18 year olds as adults ONLY for heinous crimes and ONLY on JJB recommendation. CARA still handles inter-country adoption.
One-line revision: POCSO (2012, amended 2019): gender-neutral, death for aggravated assault <12; JJ Act 2021: DM adoption orders; NCPCR monitors.

14. PM POSHAN — Mid-Day Meal Scheme

In Brief: PM POSHAN (Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman, 2021) — renamed Mid-Day Meal (MDM) scheme. Provides free cooked lunch to ~12 crore children in classes I-VIII in government and aided schools. Budget 2026-27 allocation: ₹12,800 crore.

Revised norms (2024-25): Enhanced cooking cost by ~9%; includes supply of millets (Shree Anna) in meals; nutritional gardens in schools; tithi-bhojan (community participation days).
Convergence: With POSHAN Abhiyaan (nutrition tracking via ICDS-CAS app); Jal Jeevan Mission (piped water in school kitchens).
Nutritional standards: Primary (I-V): 450 calories + 12g protein; Upper Primary (VI-VIII): 700 calories + 20g protein.
Akshaya Patra Foundation: Largest NGO partner; serves ~20 lakh meals/day through centralised kitchens.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. PM POSHAN: I-VIII in govt + aided schools
2. ~12 crore beneficiary children
3. Calorie norms: 450 (Primary) / 700 (Upper Primary)
4. Millets integrated into menu from 2024-25
Trap areas: PM POSHAN covers only government and government-aided schools (not private). It replaced the MDM scheme in name (2021) but continuity of programme since 1995.
One-line revision: PM POSHAN = MDM renamed; 12 cr children; I-VIII govt schools; 450/700 cal norms; millets added; ₹12,800 cr (2026-27).

15. Saksham Anganwadi 2.0 (ICDS Modernisation)

In Brief: Saksham Anganwadi and POSHAN 2.0 — merged umbrella scheme (Budget 2021-22) combining ICDS + POSHAN Abhiyaan + Scheme for Adolescent Girls. 13.9 lakh Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) serve children (0-6 years), pregnant women, and lactating mothers.

Saksham Anganwadi upgrades (2024-26): Smart AWC with IoT-based growth monitoring, improved infrastructure (toilet, water, LPG), digital tracking via ICDS-CAS/POSHAN Tracker app.
Services at AWC: Supplementary nutrition, pre-school education, immunisation, health check-up, referral services, nutrition/health education.
Budget 2026-27: ₹21,200 crore for Saksham Anganwadi & POSHAN 2.0.
Anganwadi workers: ~14 lakh workers + ~12 lakh helpers; demands for regularisation and higher honorarium (currently ₹4,500-5,500/month for worker).
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. ICDS (1975) → Saksham Anganwadi & POSHAN 2.0 (merged 2021)
2. ~13.9 lakh AWCs; ~14 lakh workers
3. Beneficiaries: children 0-6, pregnant women, lactating mothers
4. 6 services at AWC (nutrition, education, immunisation, etc.)
Trap areas: Anganwadi workers are NOT government employees — they are honorary workers with stipend. ICDS is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme (not Central Sector). Supplementary Nutrition Programme costs shared 60:40 (Centre:State) in general states.
One-line revision: Saksham Anganwadi 2.0 = merged ICDS + POSHAN; 13.9L AWCs; 0-6 yr children + PW/LM; 6 services; ₹21,200 cr.

16. POSHAN Abhiyaan 2.0 — Malnutrition Status

In Brief: POSHAN Abhiyaan (National Nutrition Mission, 2018) now merged into POSHAN 2.0. Targets: reduce stunting by 2%/year, underweight by 2%/year, anaemia (women/children) by 3%/year. NFHS-5 (2019-21): Stunting 35.5%, Wasting 19.3%, Underweight 32.1%.

NFHS-6 (partial release 2025-26): Preliminary data suggests stunting declined to ~31% (from 35.5%); underweight to ~28%; but wasting remains stubborn at ~18%.
POSHAN Tracker (app): Real-time tracking of service delivery at AWCs; ~10 crore beneficiaries registered.
Jan Andolan (People's Movement): Community-based nutrition awareness; POSHAN Maah (September each year).
Global context: India has highest absolute number of stunted children globally (~4.3 crore); but rate declining.
SDG 2 (Zero Hunger): India's 2030 target challenging given current rates.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. NFHS-5: Stunting 35.5%, Wasting 19.3%, Underweight 32.1%
2. Target: reduce stunting 2%/yr, anaemia 3%/yr
3. NFHS-6 early data: stunting ~31% (improved)
4. POSHAN Tracker app for real-time monitoring
Trap areas: Stunting = chronic (height-for-age); Wasting = acute (weight-for-height); Underweight = composite (weight-for-age). India's wasting rates are among world's highest even though stunting is improving.
One-line revision: POSHAN 2.0: targets stunting ↓2%/yr; NFHS-5: stunting 35.5%; NFHS-6 (early): ~31%; wasting stubbornly high at 18%.

17. Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP)

In Brief: BBBP launched January 2015 — addresses declining Child Sex Ratio (CSR). Multi-sectoral: MoWCD + MoHFW + MoE. Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB) improved from 918 (2014-15) to 937 (2024-25) per 1,000 male births (Civil Registration System).

Shift to education/empowerment: From 2019, focus expanded beyond sex-selection to girls' education, nutrition, empowerment.
CAG critique (2024): Noted 56% of BBBP funds spent on media/advocacy rather than direct service delivery.
Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act 1994: Prohibits sex determination; linked to BBBP enforcement.
Budget 2026-27: Subsumed under Samarthya component of Mission Shakti.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. BBBP launched January 2015
2. SRB improved: 918 (2014-15) → 937 (2024-25)
3. Multi-ministry: MoWCD + MoHFW + MoE
4. PCPNDT Act 1994: prohibits sex determination
Trap areas: BBBP did NOT introduce new law — it implements existing PCPNDT Act + creates awareness. Now subsumed under Mission Shakti (Samarthya). CSR and SRB are different: CSR = 0-6 age group in Census; SRB = at birth per year.
One-line revision: BBBP (Jan 2015): SRB 918→937; MoWCD+MoHFW+MoE; PCPNDT enforcement; now under Mission Shakti.

18. PM Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY)

In Brief: PMMVY (renamed from Indira Gandhi Matritva Sahyog Yojana) provides ₹5,000 cash incentive to pregnant and lactating mothers for first living child (and ₹6,000 for 2nd child if girl, from 2022 revision). Compensates wage loss for prenatal care and institutional delivery.

Revised (2022, PMMVY 2.0): ₹5,000 for first birth; ₹6,000 for second child if girl; total up to ₹11,000 over two pregnancies.
NFSA Section 4: Mandates ₹6,000 maternity benefit to all pregnant women (not just first child) — PMMVY partially fulfils this.
DBT through Aadhaar-linked accounts. ~3.5 crore beneficiaries (cumulative by 2026).
Gap: NFSA mandates benefit for ALL pregnancies; PMMVY covers only first/second — activists highlight gap.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. ₹5,000 (1st child) + ₹6,000 (2nd girl child)
2. NFSA Section 4: maternity benefit of ₹6,000
3. ~3.5 crore cumulative beneficiaries
4. Centrally Sponsored Scheme (60:40)
Trap areas: PMMVY does not cover all pregnancies (NFSA mandates for all). It is Centrally Sponsored (not Central Sector). The ₹6,000 for 2nd child is ONLY if the child is a girl.
One-line revision: PMMVY: ₹5K (1st child) + ₹6K (2nd if girl); NFSA §4 mandates ₹6K for all; CSS 60:40; 3.5 cr beneficiaries.

19. One Stop Centre (OSC) + Nirbhaya Fund

In Brief: One Stop Centres (Sakhi Centres) — provide integrated support to women affected by violence (medical, legal, police, counselling) under one roof. Funded from Nirbhaya Fund (est. 2013, ₹1,000 crore initial corpus). ~780 OSCs operational by March 2026 (target: one per district).

Women Helpline 181: Universal women helpline; connects to police, OSC, legal aid.
Nirbhaya Fund: Non-lapsable corpus for women's safety initiatives; ₹10,180 crore allocated since 2013; utilisation ~68% (criticism: underutilisation).
Schemes funded by Nirbhaya Fund: OSC, 181 helpline, safe city projects, women police stations, fast-track special courts (POCSO + rape), emergency response (Himmat app).
Fast Track Special Courts (FTSC): 756 FTSCs (including 414 POCSO-exclusive) across 30 states; 2,00,000+ cases disposed.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. OSC: integrated support for women facing violence
2. Nirbhaya Fund (2013): ₹10,180 cr allocated; utilisation ~68%
3. 181: Women helpline; ~780 OSCs operational
4. FTSCs: 756 courts (414 POCSO-exclusive)
Trap areas: Nirbhaya Fund is a non-lapsable corpus (unused funds carry over). OSCs are for ALL forms of violence (domestic, sexual, workplace, trafficking), not just sexual assault.
One-line revision: Nirbhaya Fund (2013) = non-lapsable; funds OSC (780) + 181 helpline + FTSCs (756); ~68% utilisation.

20. BNS — Sexual Offences Provisions

In Brief: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 (replaced IPC from 1 July 2024) — Chapter V deals with sexual offences. Key changes: rape (§63-69), gang rape (§70), marital rape exemption retained (§63 Exception 2), voyeurism (§77), stalking (§78), expanded definition of assault.

Marital rape exemption: BNS §63 Exception 2 retains: "Sexual intercourse by a man with his own wife not being under 18 years is not rape." Supreme Court hearing challenge (PIL pending, 2025-26).
Age-related changes: Sexual offences against women <18 carry enhanced penalties; <12 years: death/life imprisonment (similar to POCSO).
Consent definition (§28): Explicit: "unequivocal voluntary agreement" — verbal/non-verbal active communication.
Community service: Introduced as punishment for certain offences (not for sexual offences).
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. BNS §63: Rape definition (expanded from IPC §375)
2. Marital rape exception retained in BNS
3. Consent = unequivocal voluntary agreement
4. BNS effective 1 July 2024
Trap areas: Marital rape is still NOT a criminal offence under BNS (exception retained). BNS definition of consent is broader than IPC but marital rape exception contradicts it. POCSO exists separately for children (BNS doesn't replace POCSO).
One-line revision: BNS Ch V: rape §63, consent §28 (unequivocal); marital rape exception retained; <12 yrs = death/life; effective Jul 2024.

21. MGNREGA — Budget & Performance

In Brief: Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (2005) guarantees 100 days of unskilled manual work per rural household per year. Demand-driven; legal right to work. Budget 2026-27 allocation: ₹73,000 crore (highest ever).

Performance (2025-26): ~5.9 crore households provided employment; average person-days per household: ~48 days (below 100-day guarantee).
Wages (2025-26): Revised annually; national average ~₹267/day; varies by state (₹229 in MP to ₹354 in Haryana).
Material-labour ratio: 60:40 rule (60% on wages, 40% on materials); convergence with PMAY-G, JJM, PMKSY, PMGSY.
Issues: Wage arrears, delayed MIS-based payments, work rationing in several states, insufficient budget allocation vs demand.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. 100 days guaranteed per household per year
2. Legal right (not just scheme) — Act of Parliament
3. Demand-driven; unemployment allowance if work not given within 15 days
4. 60:40 wage-material ratio
5. Budget 2026-27: ₹73,000 crore
Trap areas: MGNREGA guarantees 100 days of work to a HOUSEHOLD (not individual). It covers only rural areas (not urban). Only unskilled manual work. Unemployment allowance if state fails to provide work within 15 days.
One-line revision: MGNREGA: 100 days/household; legal right; rural only; ₹73,000 cr (2026-27); avg ~48 days delivered; 60:40 ratio.

22. PM Awas Yojana — Gramin & Urban 2.0

In Brief: PMAY-Gramin: Target 2.95 crore houses (Phase I: 2016-22, Phase II: 2022-24, Phase III: 2024-26). Unit cost: ₹1.20 lakh (plains) / ₹1.30 lakh (hilly/difficult). PMAY-Urban 2.0 (2024-29): ₹10 lakh crore investment; target 1 crore additional urban houses.

PMAY-G Phase III (2024-26): Additional 2 crore rural houses sanctioned; convergence with JJM (tap water), Ujjwala (LPG), Saubhagya (electricity), SBM (toilet).
PMAY-U 2.0 (announced August 2024): ₹10 lakh crore outlay; interest subsidy for EWS/LIG; in-situ slum rehabilitation; affordable housing in partnership (AHP); beneficiary-led construction.
Completion (cumulative by March 2026): PMAY-G: ~3.5 crore houses completed; PMAY-U: ~1.2 crore houses sanctioned, ~80 lakh completed.
Budget 2026-27: ₹54,500 crore (PMAY-G) + ₹25,000 crore (PMAY-U 2.0).
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. PMAY-G unit cost: ₹1.20L (plains) / ₹1.30L (hilly)
2. PMAY-U 2.0: ₹10 lakh crore; 1 crore houses by 2029
3. Convergence: JJM + Ujjwala + Saubhagya + SBM
4. PMAY-G: 3.5 cr houses completed by March 2026
Trap areas: PMAY-G and PMAY-U are different schemes under different ministries (Rural Development vs Housing & Urban Affairs). PMAY-U 2.0 started August 2024 (original PMAY-U was 2015-22).
One-line revision: PMAY-G: ₹1.20L/house, 3.5 cr done; PMAY-U 2.0 (2024-29): ₹10L cr, 1 cr urban houses; convergence with JJM/Ujjwala/SBM.

23. DAY-NRLM — SHG & Bank Linkage

In Brief: Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM, 2011) — restructured from SGSY (Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana). Forms SHGs → federates into Village Organisations (VOs) → Cluster Level Federations (CLFs). Target: mobilise all rural poor households into SHGs.

SHG Bank Linkage (2025-26): ~92 lakh SHGs with bank savings accounts; total savings ~₹58,000 crore; loan outstanding ~₹7.5 lakh crore.
Coverage (March 2026): ~10 crore women in ~90 lakh SHGs; present in all 7,000+ blocks.
Lakhpati Didi: Initiative to make 3 crore SHG women earn ₹1 lakh+ annually; ~1.2 crore achieved by March 2026.
SHG-led enterprises: Community-managed resource centres, livelihood collectives (farm + non-farm), Startup Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP).
Budget 2026-27: ₹15,047 crore for DAY-NRLM.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. DAY-NRLM (2011): restructured from SGSY
2. ~10 crore women in ~90 lakh SHGs
3. Lakhpati Didi: target 3 crore; 1.2 cr achieved
4. SHG → VO → CLF federation structure
5. SHG bank linkage: ₹7.5L cr outstanding
Trap areas: DAY-NRLM is Centrally Sponsored (75:25 Centre:State; 90:10 for NE/special). SHGs are not just savings groups — they have bank linkage for credit. Lakhpati Didi is a subset initiative within NRLM (not a separate scheme).
One-line revision: DAY-NRLM: 10 cr women, 90L SHGs; Lakhpati Didi (3 cr target, 1.2 cr done); SHG bank linkage ₹7.5L cr; ₹15,047 cr budget.

24. PM-JANMAN — Janjati Adivasi Development

In Brief: Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) — launched 15 November 2023 (Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas / Birsa Munda's birth anniversary). ₹24,104 crore for 75 PVTGs across 220+ districts in 18 states. Saturate basic facilities in PVTG habitations.

Convergence of 11 ministries: MoTA (nodal), MoRD, MoHUA, Jal Shakti, MoHFW, DoT, MNRE, etc.
Key deliverables (by 2026): Pucca houses, road connectivity, piped water, electricity, mobile/internet connectivity, AWCs, hostels, health sub-centres, Van Dhan Kendras.
Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas (15 November): Commemorates Birsa Munda (1875-1900); declared in 2021.
PVTG coverage: ~28 lakh PVTG population; most in Odisha (13 PVTGs), Andaman (5), Madhya Pradesh/Rajasthan (5 each).
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. Launched 15 Nov 2023 (Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas)
2. ₹24,104 crore; 75 PVTGs; 18 states; 220+ districts
3. 11-ministry convergence (MoTA nodal)
4. Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas commemorates Birsa Munda
Trap areas: PM-JANMAN is specifically for PVTGs (75 groups), NOT all STs. Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas = 15 November (Birsa Munda's birth anniversary, declared 2021).
One-line revision: PM-JANMAN (Nov 2023): ₹24,104 cr; 75 PVTGs; 18 states; 11-ministry convergence; saturation of basic infra.

25. Social Security Code 2020 — Gig & Platform Workers

In Brief: Code on Social Security 2020 (one of 4 Labour Codes passed September 2020; NOT yet notified for implementation as of June 2026). First time Indian law recognises gig workers and platform workers and brings them under social security coverage.

Gig worker (definition): Works outside traditional employer-employee relationship; earns from platforms/assignments.
Platform worker: Works on/through online platform (Swiggy, Zomato, Uber, Ola, Urban Company, etc.).
Provisions: National Social Security Board to frame schemes for gig/platform workers — life insurance, disability, maternity, health; funded by aggregator contribution (1-2% of turnover).
Status (June 2026): Labour Codes not yet operationalised; states have not framed rules; Rajasthan (2023) and Karnataka (2024) passed state-level gig worker bills.
Supreme Court (2025): PIL seeking implementation; court urged Central government to expedite notification.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. 4 Labour Codes: Wages, Industrial Relations, Social Security, OSH
2. Social Security Code 2020: first to cover gig/platform workers
3. Aggregator contribution: 1-2% of turnover
4. NOT yet notified/implemented centrally
Trap areas: The Code is passed by Parliament but NOT yet in force (rules not notified). Gig workers are NOT "employees" under the Code — they get social security schemes, not full labour rights. Rajasthan/Karnataka have own state laws.
One-line revision: SS Code 2020: recognises gig/platform workers; aggregator pays 1-2%; NOT yet notified; Rajasthan/Karnataka have state gig laws.

26. e-Shram Portal — Unorganised Workers

In Brief: e-Shram (launched August 2021) — national database of unorganised workers for social security delivery. Self-registration via Aadhaar + mobile. By March 2026: ~30.2 crore registrations (world's largest labour database).

Unorganised workers covered: Construction, domestic, street vendors, gig, agriculture, home-based, rickshaw pullers, auto-drivers, etc.
Benefits linkage: PM Suraksha Bima Yojana (₹2 lakh accidental insurance); skill mapping; scheme convergence (PMAY, PMJAY, PM-KISAN).
UAN (Universal Account Number): Each registered worker gets 12-digit UAN — portable social security ID.
State integration: 36 states/UTs linked; data shared with EPFO, ESIC for portability.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. e-Shram launched August 2021 by MoL&E
2. ~30.2 crore registrations (2026)
3. Aadhaar-based; 12-digit UAN for each worker
4. Linked to PM Suraksha Bima Yojana (₹2L accidental insurance)
Trap areas: Registration on e-Shram does NOT automatically provide all benefits — it is a database for scheme targeting. Workers must separately enrol in linked schemes. Income ceiling: ₹2 lakh/month (effectively covers nearly all informal workers).
One-line revision: e-Shram (Aug 2021): 30.2 cr registrations; Aadhaar + UAN; unorganised workers database; linked to PMSBY ₹2L insurance.

27. PM-SVANidhi — Street Vendor Micro-Credit

In Brief: PM Street Vendor's AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM-SVANidhi) launched June 2020 — provides collateral-free working capital loans to street vendors. ₹10,000 (1st cycle) → ₹20,000 (2nd cycle) → ₹50,000 (3rd cycle); 7% interest subsidy on timely repayment + cashback for digital transactions.

By March 2026: ~68 lakh loans sanctioned; ~₹11,400 crore disbursed; repayment rate ~78%.
Digital adoption: ~54 lakh vendors adopted digital payments (UPI); ₹1,200 cashback/year incentive.
Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation) Act 2014: Provides legal framework — vending zones, Town Vending Committees, survey of vendors, certificate of vending.
Extended to 2027: Budget 2025-26 extended PM-SVANidhi scheme; 3rd cycle (₹50,000) made available.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. PM-SVANidhi: collateral-free loans (₹10K → ₹20K → ₹50K)
2. 7% interest subsidy + digital cashback
3. ~68 lakh loans sanctioned by March 2026
4. Street Vendors Act 2014: legal protection framework
Trap areas: PM-SVANidhi is specifically for street vendors (not all micro-businesses — that is PM Mudra). The Street Vendors Act 2014 is the legal basis; PM-SVANidhi is the credit scheme. Vendors must be surveyed/identified under the 2014 Act to be eligible.
One-line revision: PM-SVANidhi (Jun 2020): ₹10K→₹20K→₹50K loans; 7% subsidy; 68L sanctioned; Street Vendors Act 2014 is legal basis.

28. Ayushman Bharat — PMJAY Expansion

In Brief: Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY, September 2018) — world's largest health insurance: ₹5 lakh/family/year for secondary/tertiary hospitalisation. Originally for bottom 40% (~10.74 crore families from SECC 2011). September 2024 expansion: All citizens above 70 years covered regardless of income.

Coverage (March 2026): ~35 crore Ayushman cards issued; ~8.5 crore hospital admissions (cumulative); ₹1.1 lakh crore claims processed.
Above-70 expansion (Ayushman Vay Vandana): Additional ~6 crore elderly; separate ₹5 lakh top-up (even if family already has PMJAY).
Empanelled hospitals: ~30,000 (public + private); 1,950+ treatment packages.
Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM): Health ID (ABHA), digital health records, Health Facility Registry, Healthcare Professionals Registry.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. AB-PMJAY: ₹5 lakh/family/year; bottom 40%
2. September 2024: expanded to all 70+ citizens
3. ~35 crore Ayushman cards; ~30,000 hospitals
4. ABDM: ABHA (Health ID) + digital health records
Trap areas: PMJAY covers hospitalisation only (not OPD/outpatient). The 70+ expansion is universal (no income criterion). ABHA is voluntary (not mandatory for PMJAY). PMJAY is cashless at point of service.
One-line revision: AB-PMJAY: ₹5L/family/yr; 35 cr cards; Sep 2024 = all 70+ covered; ABDM = ABHA + digital health; 30,000 hospitals.

29. Right to Food — Universalisation Debate

In Brief: NFSA (2013) covers 67% of population — demand for universalisation (100% coverage) intensified post-COVID. Supreme Court (PUCL case, 2001 onwards) and activists (Right to Food Campaign) argue food is a fundamental right under Article 21.

Arguments for universalisation: Exclusion errors in BPL targeting; migrant workers left out; administrative cost of identification exceeds savings from targeting.
Arguments against: Fiscal burden (~₹4.5 lakh crore if universal); leakage in PDS; cash transfer alternatives better targeted.
Current status (2026): Free grain extended but NOT universalised; ONORC addresses some portability issues but targeting remains.
Chhattisgarh/Tamil Nadu model: Near-universal PDS (90%+ coverage) at state level.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. NFSA covers 67% (not universal)
2. Article 21: Right to Food as part of Right to Life (SC interpretation)
3. PUCL v. UoI: landmark right-to-food litigation (2001 onwards)
4. Chhattisgarh model: near-universal PDS
Trap areas: Right to Food is NOT explicitly in Constitution — derived from Article 21 via SC interpretation. NFSA uses Census 2011 data for identification (outdated). Universal PDS ≠ current policy.
One-line revision: Right to Food: Art 21 (SC); NFSA covers 67%; demand for universalisation; PUCL case; Chhattisgarh near-universal model.

30. Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) — India's Progress

In Brief: Global MPI (UNDP + Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative) uses 10 indicators across 3 dimensions (health, education, living standards). NITI Aayog National MPI (2023): India's MPI poverty declined from 24.85% (2015-16, NFHS-4) to 14.96% (2019-21, NFHS-5) — ~13.5 crore people escaped multidimensional poverty.

NITI Aayog MPI 2.0 (2025): Updated with NFHS-6 data; MPI estimated to drop to ~10-11% (preliminary).
Global MPI 2024 (UNDP): India's rank improved; MPI value declined significantly; cited as major success story.
States with highest MPI: Bihar, Jharkhand, UP, MP; lowest: Kerala, Goa, Delhi, Tamil Nadu.
10 indicators: Nutrition, child mortality (health); years of schooling, school attendance (education); cooking fuel, sanitation, drinking water, electricity, housing, assets (living standards).
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. MPI uses 10 indicators, 3 dimensions (health, education, living standards)
2. India MPI: 24.85% (2015-16) → 14.96% (2019-21)
3. NITI Aayog publishes India's national MPI
4. ~13.5 crore escaped multidimensional poverty
Trap areas: MPI is different from income poverty line. A person is MPI-poor if deprived in ≥1/3 of weighted indicators. NITI Aayog MPI uses NFHS data (not Census). Global MPI by UNDP+OPHI.
One-line revision: MPI: 10 indicators, 3 dimensions; India 24.85% → 14.96% (2015-21); 13.5 cr escaped; NITI Aayog publishes national MPI.

31. Human Development Index (HDI) 2025

In Brief: HDI 2025 (data year 2023) published by UNDP in Human Development Report. India ranked **134th out of 193 countries (HDI value: ~0.644) — Medium Human Development category. Up from 136th in 2022.

HDI components: Life expectancy at birth, Mean/Expected years of schooling, GNI per capita (PPP).
India's strengths/weaknesses: GNI improved significantly; life expectancy ~70.2 years; mean years of schooling ~6.6 (drags ranking).
Gender Development Index (GDI): India score ~0.85 (Group 3) — significant gender gap in GNI and schooling.
Inequality-adjusted HDI (IHDI): India loses ~25% value due to inequality.
Top 5: Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Hong Kong, Denmark.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. HDI 2025: India rank 134/193 (Medium HD)
2. Components: life expectancy, education (mean + expected years), GNI per capita
3. Published by UNDP in HDR
4. India: Medium Human Development category
Trap areas: HDI is published by UNDP (not World Bank). India is in Medium (not Low) category. HDI does NOT include poverty rate or inequality directly (that's IHDI/MPI).
One-line revision: HDI 2025: India 134th/193 (Medium HD, ~0.644); UNDP; components: life expectancy + schooling + GNI; top: Switzerland.

32. Denotified, Nomadic & Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNTs)

In Brief: DNTs — communities notified as "criminal tribes" under Criminal Tribes Act 1871 (British era); denotified after independence (Habitual Offenders Act replaced, 1952). ~150 DNT communities; ~10 crore population. Highly marginalised; many not included in SC/ST/OBC lists.

Renke Commission (2008) + Idate Commission (2018): Recommended separate welfare board and economic development.
SEED (Scheme for Economic Empowerment of DNTs): Launched 2021-22; ₹200 crore; coaching, health insurance, livelihood, housing for DNTs not covered under SC/ST/OBC.
Development and Welfare Board for DNTs, SNTs, NTs (2019): Under MoSJ&E; identifies genuine DNT communities.
Budget 2026-27: SEED extended; ₹250 crore allocation.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. DNTs: denotified after Criminal Tribes Act 1871 repealed
2. ~150 communities; ~10 crore population
3. SEED scheme (2021-22): ₹200 crore for economic empowerment
4. Renke Commission (2008) + Idate Commission (2018)
Trap areas: DNTs are NOT synonymous with STs — many are not in any reservation list. The Criminal Tribes Act was a colonial law; after independence, they were "denotified" but stigma persists.
One-line revision: DNTs: denotified 1952 (British Criminal Tribes Act 1871); ~150 communities; SEED scheme ₹200 cr; Renke + Idate Commissions.

33. Anti-Trafficking — Draft Bill & Operations

In Brief: Trafficking in Persons (Prevention, Protection and Rehabilitation) Bill 2021: Passed Lok Sabha (never introduced in Rajya Sabha; lapsed with dissolution); proposed National Anti-Trafficking Bureau, special courts, stringent penalties.

Current law: IPC/BNS (§§141-143 BNS), Immoral Traffic Prevention Act (ITPA) 1956, Bonded Labour Act, JJ Act, POCSO — multiple fragmented laws.
Inter-state rescue operations (2024-26): Operation AAHT (Railways anti-trafficking), Anti-Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs) in all districts.
NCRB data (2024): ~6,500 trafficking cases registered (2023); actual numbers estimated much higher.
International: Palermo Protocol (UN Convention against Transnational Organised Crime, 2000); India signed but NOT ratified.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. TIP Bill 2021: passed LS, lapsed (not enacted)
2. ITPA 1956: existing anti-trafficking law
3. AHTUs: in all districts for anti-trafficking
4. Palermo Protocol: India signed but NOT ratified
Trap areas: There is NO single comprehensive anti-trafficking law in India (bill lapsed). Multiple laws deal with aspects. India has signed but NOT ratified the Palermo Protocol.
One-line revision: No comprehensive anti-trafficking law (2021 Bill lapsed); ITPA 1956 + BNS §§141-143; AHTUs in all districts; Palermo Protocol not ratified.

34. Domestic Violence Act — Implementation

In Brief: Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 — civil law providing protection orders, residence orders, monetary relief, custody orders to aggrieved women (includes live-in partners). NOT just physical violence — covers emotional, verbal, sexual, economic abuse.

Key provisions: Protection Officers appointed by state; Magistrate can pass ex-parte orders; breach is criminal offence.
Implementation challenges: Shortage of Protection Officers; delayed order execution; limited awareness in rural areas.
Hiral P. Harsora (2016) SC judgment: Extended protection to all women in household (not just wife/live-in partner vs husband).
Data (2024): ~6 lakh cases filed annually under DV Act; disposal rate ~40%.
Legal Aid: NALSA (National Legal Services Authority) provides free legal aid to DV victims.
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. DV Act 2005: civil law (not criminal — breach is criminal)
2. Covers physical, emotional, verbal, sexual, economic abuse
3. Applies to women in domestic relationships (including live-in)
4. Protection Officer appointed by state; Magistrate grants orders
Trap areas: DV Act is primarily a civil remedy (protection orders), though breach is criminal. It is NOT the same as IPC/BNS Section 498A (cruelty by husband — that's criminal). DV Act covers live-in relationships.
One-line revision: DV Act 2005: civil law; covers all abuse types; live-in included; Protection Officer + Magistrate orders; breach = criminal.

35. Caste Census Demand — Bihar Survey & National Debate

In Brief: Bihar Caste Survey (2023): State government conducted a caste-based enumeration — found OBC + EBC constitute 63% of Bihar's population (OBC 27% + EBC 36%); upper castes ~15.5%; SC ~19.7%; ST ~1.7%. Triggered national demand for a nationwide caste census.

Last caste census: 1931 (British India). Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011 collected caste data but never fully released.
Arguments for: Accurate data for welfare targeting; proportionate reservation; evidence-based policy.
Arguments against: Social divisiveness; administrative complexity; political misuse; existing sample surveys (NSSO) sufficient.
Government position (2025-26): No nationwide caste census announced; Census 2025 (postponed from 2021) will NOT include caste enumeration (only SC/ST as before).
Supreme Court view: No blanket prohibition on caste census; states have conducted (Maharashtra OBC survey 2024 also attempted).
Constitutional link: Article 340 (commission to investigate conditions of backward classes) — first Backward Classes Commission (Kaka Kalelkar, 1955); Mandal Commission (1978-80).
Probable Prelims Facts:
1. Bihar Caste Survey 2023: OBC+EBC = 63%
2. Last all-India caste census: 1931
3. SECC 2011: caste data collected but not fully published
4. Census 2025: will NOT enumerate caste (only SC/ST)
5. Article 340: commission for backward class conditions
Trap areas: Census counts SC and ST (constitutionally mandated) but NOT OBC. Bihar survey was a state exercise (not Census of India). SECC 2011 data exists but reliability questioned.
One-line revision: Caste census demand: Bihar survey 2023 (OBC+EBC=63%); last all-India: 1931; SECC 2011 unpublished; Census 2025 won't enumerate caste.

Prelims Practice — 15 MCQs

Q1. In State of Punjab v. Davinder Singh (2024), the Supreme Court held that: (a) Sub-categorisation of SCs is unconstitutional (b) States can sub-classify Scheduled Castes for reservation purposes (c) Creamy layer cannot be applied to SCs (d) Only Parliament can sub-classify SCs

Explanation: 7-judge bench (6:1) allowed state sub-classification; overruled E.V. Chinnaiah 2004.

Q2. Under the Forest Rights Act 2006, the maximum area of Individual Forest Rights (IFR) that can be recognised is: (a) 2 hectares (b) 4 hectares (c) 10 hectares (d) No upper limit

Explanation: IFR is for land actually under occupation, subject to maximum 4 hectares.

Q3. The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) became a constitutional body through: (a) 97th Amendment (b) 102nd Amendment (c) 103rd Amendment (d) 105th Amendment

Explanation: 102nd Amendment (2018) inserted Article 338B; NCBC became constitutional body (earlier statutory under 1993 Act).

Q4. Consider the following about the 103rd Constitutional Amendment:

It provides 10% reservation for EWS in the general category.
It was upheld by the Supreme Court in Janhit Abhiyan (2022) by a 5:0 majority.
SC/ST/OBC are excluded from EWS reservation.

Which are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, and 3

Explanation: Statement 2 is wrong — it was 3:2 (not 5:0). Statements 1 and 3 are correct.

Q5. PM Vishwakarma covers: (a) All MSME entrepreneurs (b) Only SC/ST artisans (c) Traditional artisans in 18 specified trades (carpentry, blacksmithing, pottery, etc.) (d) Only women self-help group members

Explanation: 18 specific trades working with hands and tools; not general MSME or any particular social category.

Q6. Which of the following is NOT a criterion for identifying PVTGs? (a) Pre-agriculture level of technology (b) Stagnant or declining population (c) Population below 1,000 (d) Low literacy

Explanation: Criteria are pre-agriculture tech, declining/stagnant population, low literacy. There is no fixed population threshold (some PVTGs have more than 1,000 members).

Q7. The NAMASTE scheme for ending manual scavenging is jointly implemented by: (a) MoSJ&E and MoRD (b) MoSJ&E and MoHUA (c) MoHFW and MoRD (d) MoHUA and MoEFCC

Explanation: NAMASTE is a joint scheme of Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment and Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs.

Q8. Under MGNREGA, the employment guarantee is for: (a) 100 days per individual per year (b) 100 days per household per year (c) 150 days per household per year (d) 200 days per individual per year

Explanation: The guarantee is 100 days per rural household (not individual).

Q9. The Social Security Code 2020 covers gig and platform workers for the first time. As of June 2026: (a) The Code is passed but rules not yet notified centrally (b) The Code is fully operational across India (c) The Code was struck down by the Supreme Court (d) The Code applies only in 5 pilot states

Explanation: All 4 Labour Codes passed in 2020 but not yet notified/implemented centrally (states haven't framed rules).

Q10. Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY was expanded in September 2024 to cover: (a) All BPL families with ₹10 lakh coverage (b) All citizens above 70 years regardless of income (c) All government employees (d) Only senior citizens in rural areas

Explanation: Above-70 expansion is universal (no income criterion); separate ₹5 lakh cover even if family already has PMJAY.

Q11. The Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) uses indicators across how many dimensions? (a) 2 (income and education) (b) 3 (health, education, living standards) (c) 4 (income, health, education, environment) (d) 5 (income, health, education, housing, employment)

Explanation: MPI has 3 dimensions with 10 indicators total. It does NOT use income as a direct indicator.

Q12. India's rank in the Human Development Index 2025 is approximately: (a) 89th (High Human Development) (b) 110th (Medium Human Development) (c) 134th (Medium Human Development) (d) 159th (Low Human Development)

Explanation: India is 134th out of 193 countries in HDI 2025; Medium HD category.

Q13. The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act 2005 is best described as: (a) A criminal law with mandatory arrest provisions (b) A civil law providing protection orders, with breach being a criminal offence (c) A criminal law that applies only to married women (d) A civil law applicable only in urban areas

Explanation: DV Act is primarily civil (protection orders by Magistrate); breach of order = criminal. Covers all domestic relationships including live-in.

Q14. PM-SVANidhi provides collateral-free loans to street vendors. The maximum loan under the third cycle is: (a) ₹10,000 (b) ₹20,000 (c) ₹50,000 (d) ₹1,00,000

Explanation: ₹10K (1st) → ₹20K (2nd) → ₹50K (3rd cycle) with 7% interest subsidy.

Q15. Which of the following about the Bihar Caste Survey 2023 is correct? (a) It was conducted as part of Census of India operations (b) It found OBC constitute 80% of Bihar's population (c) It found OBC + EBC constitute approximately 63% of Bihar's population (d) It was declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court

Explanation: Bihar state government conducted the survey (not Census of India); OBC 27% + EBC 36% = 63%. Patna HC upheld it.

End of Chapter G — Social Justice & Welfare Next chapter: H — Health & Public Health Architecture