The article discusses the philosophy of education as a transformative and liberating process, emphasizing the need for an educational approach that fosters individuality and critical thinking rather than rote learning and competition. Key points from the article include:

• Conceptualizing Education: Education should not merely involve imparting knowledge or narratives but must prioritize students’ ability to construct their own understanding based on their unique experiences and capabilities.

• Emphasis on Experience Over Transplantation: Drawing from legal scholar Upendra Baxi, the article argues that education must transcend mere knowledge transplantation, which can often be contextless and restrictive. Instead, education should enhance analytical skills through experiential learning.

• Critique of the Current Education System: The Indian education system is critiqued for its focus on marks and competition, which stifles creativity and individuality among students. The system's structure encourages a "rat race" mentality rather than collaborative learning.

• Nurturing Individuality: The article compares children to flowers—each growing at their own pace and requiring individualized care from teachers. Education should help students discover and polish their innate skills and talents, promoting diversity in learning styles.

• Reverse Learning/Teaching Method: The notion of reverse learning is introduced, wherein students are encouraged to teach teachers about various topics. This method is posited as a means to enhance students' analytical abilities, reading skills, communication, and overall confidence.

• A Mutual Growth Relationship: It emphasizes that the teacher-student relationship should be one of fiduciary respect rather than a hierarchical master-servant dynamic. Both teachers and students should grow together, with teachers facilitating students’ understanding rather than dictating it.

• Empowerment Through Education: Education's ultimate aim is highlighted as enabling students to perceive reality through their own sensory abilities, thereby promoting a sense of liberality, transformation, and humanitarian values.

• Personalized Education: The article argues against mass education models that prioritize institutional monetary growth over personalized attention and support, calling for a model that cherishes individual educational journeys.

• Publishing Details: The article is published under the author's name, Shambhvi, on August 17, 2025, with an emphasis on fostering deeper educational relationships and a holistic view of learning.

In conclusion, the article signifies a call for a paradigm shift in education from a transactional and competitive framework to a more relational, experiential, and student-centered approach. It champions the ideals of nurturing uniqueness and creativity, reinforcing that education should serve to empower students in their journey of personal growth and understanding.

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh has officially launched a book titled "The Weight Loss Revolution – Weight Loss Drugs and How to Use Them," co-authored by renowned endocrinologist Dr. Ambrish Mithal and journalist Mr. Shivam Vij. This event not only highlighted the alarming rise in obesity and metabolic disorders in India but also emphasized the critical need for scientifically backed information in tackling these issues.

Key Highlights:

• Obesity Crisis in India: Dr. Jitendra Singh pointed out that India is experiencing a surge in obesity, positioning it as a global leader in childhood obesity and previously dubbed the “diabetes capital of the world.”
• Health Challenges: The Minister underscored associated health complications of obesity, including diabetes mellitus, dyslipidaemia, hypertension, coronary heart disease, and fatty liver disease.
• Awareness and Disinformation: He stressed the importance of spreading awareness based on scientific principles while warning against misleading information from unverified diet plans and fad diets.
• Tailored Solutions: Emphasizing “Indian Solutions for Indian Patients,” Dr. Singh noted that central obesity poses a greater risk for the Indian population. He advocated for metrics like waist circumference over the traditional Body Mass Index (BMI) to assess health risks.
• Lifestyle Modifications: The Minister underscored that scientific studies have shown that lifestyle changes, such as regular yoga practice, could reduce the incidence of type-2 diabetes by 40%. He called for the integration of modern medicine with traditional practices for comprehensive health strategies.
• Caution on Weight Loss Drugs: Addressing the emerging weight loss medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro, he advised caution in their usage, stressing that clinical outcomes require extensive longitudinal studies for verification.
• Prevention Over Treatment: Dr. Singh proposed a prevention-focused approach to tackle obesity and lifestyle diseases, especially considering India’s young demographic, over 70% of whom are under the age of 40.
• Engagement Across Sectors: He highlighted the importance of cross-disciplinary approaches in addressing obesity and related health issues, arguing that they should not be left solely to health professionals such as diabetologists.
• Role of the Book: Dr. Jitendra Singh lauded Dr. Mithal for authoring a book that serves as a resource for both healthcare professionals and the general public, aiding them in discerning fact from misinformation amidst the prevailing tide of social media.

Conclusion:

Dr. Singh's address identified the critical need for integrated strategies to combat obesity and metabolic disorders, emphasizing preventive measures, public awareness, and scientifically validated dietary guidelines. The call for greater public engagement in health issues signifies a broader approach to public health in India moving forward.

Important Points:

• Launch of "The Weight Loss Revolution" book by Dr. Ambrish Mithal.
• India is facing an obesity epidemic, ranked 3rd in childhood obesity.
• Emphasis on scientifically validated diet prescriptions to combat misinformation.
• Awareness of risks posed by central obesity in the Indian demographic.
• Advocacy for integrating modern and traditional practices in health interventions.
• Caution advised regarding the emerging weight loss drugs.
• Focused call for preventive health strategies for India’s young population.
• The book provides guidance amidst the challenges of misinformation on social media.

Summary of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 2025 Independence Day Speech

On August 15, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a historic 103-minute Independence Day speech from the Red Fort, marking the longest such address in India's history. The speech was rich in policy prescriptions, promoting themes of self-reliance (aatmanirbharta) in both economic and defense sectors while also addressing national security concerns.

Key Highlights:

• Self-Reliance Emphasis: PM Modi articulated that true self-respect for India is hinged on self-reliance, extending beyond financial metrics to include domestic capabilities.

• International Context: Modi referenced growing economic challenges, particularly citing 50% tariffs on Indian goods by the U.S., labeled as part of a broader economic greed from certain countries.

• Defensive Independence: He talked about India's first operational use of indigenous arms during Operation Sindoor, signifying a shift towards defense self-reliance with a commitment to develop the "Sudarshan Chakra" aerial defense system by 2035.

• Economic Reforms Announcement:

  • Formation of a High-Powered Task Force focused on second generation reforms for the GST, aiming to ease essential goods' pricing.
  • Announcement of the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, with a budget of ₹1 lakh crore to support job creation in the private sector by providing ₹15,000 grants to first-time employees.

• Semiconductor Initiative: India aims to launch Made-in-India semiconductor chips by the end of 2025, having already initiated six units and approving four more.

• Demographic Concerns: Modi warned of a "conspiracy" to alter India's demographic landscape, especially in border areas, stating a new High Powered Demography Mission will address illegal infiltration issues that threaten national security.

• Clean Energy Commitment: Modi confirmed that India surpassed its clean energy targets five years ahead of schedule and proposed the expansion of nuclear energy capacity, planning a tenfold increase by 2047, alongside the National Deep Water Exploration Mission to tap into marine energy sources.

• Acknowledgment of RSS: He praised the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) for its century-long service to the nation, marking a historical nod during an Independence Day address.

• Call to Youth: Modi urged youth to ensure indigenous development in key military technology, specifically to create engines for Indian fighter jets.

• Support for Farmers and MSMEs: Emphasizing the importance of supporting farmers and medium, small, and micro enterprises (MSMEs), he assured safeguarding their interests against potential harmful policies.

Additional Insights:

• The address included multiple references to promoting innovation, particularly in AI, cybersecurity, and deep-tech sectors to bolster global competitiveness.

• PM Modi delivered the speech amidst the backdrop of ongoing tariffs negotiations with the U.S., reaffirming India's commitment to standing firm on farmers' rights and interests.

• Additional socio-economic initiatives were hinted at, illustrating a broader agenda aimed at boosting domestic industries and employment opportunities for the populace.

Conclusion:

Prime Minister Modi's Independence Day speech encapsulated a robust vision for India's future, advocating for self-reliance in defense and economy, national security, job creation, and technological advancements. The multifaceted strategy outlined reflects both immediate reforms and long-term goals, highlighting the government's proactive approach to addressing domestic challenges while neutralizing international pressures.

Important Sentences:

• PM Modi emphasized that self-reliance goes beyond financial metrics to encompass national capabilities.
• Announced measures for economic reforms, including a significant task force for GST revisions.
• Launched the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana to incentivize employment.
• Highlighted India's commitment to semiconductor manufacturing and clean energy.
• Warned against demographic changes due to illegal infiltration with plans for a High-Powered Demography Mission.
• Commended RSS for its century of service, underscoring nationalistic sentiments.
• Stressed the importance of youth engagement in military technology self-sufficiency.

This address signifies a pivotal moment in India's historical narrative regarding self-sufficiency and security.

Summary of News Article on Kerala's Poverty Eradication and Digital Literacy Initiatives

The State of Kerala has successfully lifted approximately 52,635 families out of extreme poverty over the past five years, as highlighted by Local Self-Government Minister M.B. Rajesh. This announcement coincides with the designation of Kannur district as free from extreme poverty, a significant milestone celebrated at a district panchayat event on August 14, 2025. The initiative reflects the state government's prioritized approach towards poverty alleviation, a commitment reaffirmed since taking office in 2021.

Key facts from the announcement include:

• Poverty Eradication Efforts: The Kerala government conducted a survey identifying 64,006 families living in extreme poverty, leading to the development of specific micro-plans aimed at facilitating their transition out of poverty. A remarkable 94.47% of these families have succeeded in overcoming extreme poverty.

• Global Recognition: With this achievement, Kerala is poised to become the first state in India and the first region globally since China to eradicate extreme poverty, showcasing the effectiveness of local governance and the collaboration between state administrations and local bodies.

• Housing Initiatives: In a related development, around 15,000 individuals who were previously excluded from the Life Mission housing scheme will now be included as beneficiaries. Construction for these housing units is ongoing, signifying an inclusive approach to housing.

• Land Ownership Measures: District Collectors have been granted the authority to identify and allot land to landless individuals, enhancing the social protection for marginalized sections of the population.

• Digital Literacy Initiative: The Minister also announced that Kerala is set to declare itself fully digitally literate on August 21, 2025. This initiative has trained approximately 21.87 lakh people in utilizing the K-Smart service, facilitating better governance and access to services through digital means.

The concerted efforts in poverty alleviation and enhancement of digital literacy are hallmarks of Kerala’s governance model, reflecting the state's commitment to socio-economic development and inclusivity.

Important Points:

• Kerala lifted 52,635 families out of extreme poverty in the past five years.
• Kannur district was declared free of extreme poverty on August 14, 2025.
• A survey identified 64,006 families living in extreme poverty, with a 94.47% success rate in overcoming it.
• Kerala aims to be the first region globally to achieve this feat, following China.
• 15,000 individuals were added to the Life Mission housing scheme, with ongoing construction.
• District Collectors authorized to allocate land to the landless.
• The state to declare full digital literacy on August 21, 2025, with 21.87 lakh trained individuals in K-Smart service.
• Initiatives reflect Kerala’s governance model focusing on socio-economic development and inclusivity.

The article discusses the state of education in India, particularly in the context of higher education, highlighting severe disparities in quality across different tiers of institutions, as well as systemic deficiencies in foundational education. Here’s a comprehensive summary of the key points, structured into bullet points for clarity:

• Current Education Landscape: V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT-Madras, humorously notes that even wildlife at IIT expresses interest in advanced topics like Machine Learning. This reflects the ambitious pursuit of knowledge among students in top-tier institutions contrasted with the plight of those from lower-tier institutions.

• Quality Disparity: Engineering graduates from Tier 2 and 3 institutions, such as V. Madhosh Kumar, struggle with employability due to poor education quality. Despite holding degrees in AI and ML, many face challenges finding jobs, often due to inadequate guidance and self-learning experiences.

• Educational Deficiencies: Reports from the Annual Status of Education Reports (ASER) indicate basic literacy and numeracy skills are alarmingly low among students, with many failing to achieve appropriate grade-level competencies. For instance, students in Tamil Nadu and Himachal Pradesh fared poorly in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA).

• Historical Context: Since Independence, focus has often been on high-performing higher education institutions while neglecting basic education quality. This was acknowledged through the implementation of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, though challenges remain in execution.

• National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: NEP 2020 highlights deficiencies in foundational literacy and numeracy, signaling a shift in government recognition of educational quality issues and the need for reform across schooling.

• Impact on Productivity: Poor educational quality has significant ramifications for labor productivity, measured at only 20% of that in Malaysia. This underscores failures in reaping the demographic dividend.

• Technology in Education: The article indicates that advances in technology might hold potential solutions; for instance, initiatives like the Swayam platform utilize video classes and AI to provide quality resources to students regardless of geographic limitations.

• Pedagogical Shifts: Education experts propose a transformation in teaching dynamics, moving from an instructor-led model to facilitating self-learning, emphasizing the importance of personalized learning environments.

• Global Perspectives: The article references international experiences, such as Sweden's rollback on digital education due to adverse effects from increased screen time, contrasting with India’s need for technological integration to address educational resource deficits.

• Evidence-Based Initiatives: Programs like the phone-tutoring initiative in Karnataka aim to enhance math skills through technology, integrating successful strategies validated in contexts like Botswana.

• Role of AI and Personalization: AI's potential in education is noted; it could streamline teaching processes and offer tailored learning experiences to address the broad spectrum of student abilities and reduce the burden on overwhelmed teachers.

• Fiscal Viability: Economical AI solutions can be developed, costing around Rs. 1,000 per year per student, which could feasibly allow for large-scale application across millions of learners.

• Empowering Teachers: Experts emphasize the crucial role of teachers as facilitators of education, advocating for approaches that provide them necessary resources and autonomy to improve educational outcomes.

In conclusion, the discourse presents a multi-faceted view of India's educational landscape, revealing critical gaps in quality that must be addressed through collaborative efforts among policymakers, educators, and technology to ensure equitable and effective learning for all students. The conversation underscores a national imperative to improve both foundational and higher education.

On the 79th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a significant address, focusing on the essential role of farmers in India's development and self-reliance. He characterized farmers as the backbone of the nation’s evolution from dependency to autonomy, reflecting on the historical context of colonial rule that left India impoverished. PM Modi expressed gratitude towards farmers for their contributions in filling the nation’s granaries, thereby ensuring food security.

Key Points:

• India's Agricultural Standing:

  • India ranks No. 1 globally in milk, pulses, and jute production.
  • It holds the No. 2 position in rice, wheat, cotton, fruits, and vegetables.
  • Agricultural exports have crossed ₹4 lakh crore, highlighting a significant economic output from the sector.

• PM Dhanya Dhanya Krishi Yojana:

  • Announced to address regional disparities in agricultural development, focusing on the 100 most backward farming districts.

• Indus Water Treaty:

  • PM Modi criticized the Indus Water Treaty, deeming it unjust and harmful to Indian farmers.
  • He stressed that India would no longer accept the agreement as it stands and emphasized reclaiming India’s rightful share of water resources.

• Self-Reliance in Agriculture:

  • The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of producing domestic fertilizers and agricultural inputs to ensure food security.
  • He noted that reliance on imports poses a threat to Indian agriculture and economic sovereignty.

• Impact of Government Schemes:

  • PM Modi underscored the increased confidence among farmers due to various government initiatives, such as:
    • PM Kisan Samman Nidhi: A direct income support scheme for farmers.
    • Rainwater harvesting and irrigation projects: Enhancing water management and availability.
    • Quality seed distribution: Ensuring farmers have access to better farming inputs.
    • Timely fertilizer supply: Aiding farmers in maintaining productivity.

• Commitment to Farmers:

  • PM Modi reaffirmed his unwavering support for farmers, stating, "For farmers, fishermen, and livestock rearers, Modi will always stand as a wall of protection."
  • He pledged against compromising on farmers' interests, emphasizing that any harmful policies targeting farmers would encounter strong opposition from his administration.

The address encapsulated PM Modi's holistic vision for the future of farming in India, promoting self-sufficiency, and addressing historical grievances linked to resource management. The initiative represents not only an economic strategy but also a commitment to improving the lives of millions reliant on agriculture.

Conclusion:

PM Modi’s message during the Independence Day address reiterated the government's commitment to fostering an advanced farming sector, ensuring food sovereignty, and empowering farmers across India through tailored support and strategic initiatives. The focus on self-reliance and corrective measures in water resource management reflects a broader goal of enhancing India's agricultural landscape for future generations.

Summary of the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana

On August 15, 2025, during the 12th Independence Day address at the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the initiation of the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana. This scheme aims to tackle youth unemployment by generating 3.5 crore jobs over a period of two years, with an estimated financial outlay of nearly ₹1 lakh crore.

Key Features of the Scheme:

• Objective: The program is designed to secure employment for the youth by providing monetary incentives to both employees and employers. It aims to bridge the gap from a 'Swatantra Bharat' (Independent India) to a 'Samriddha Bharat' (Prosperous India).

Part A – Support for First-Time Employees:

• Targets first-time employees registered with the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO).
• Provides a wage incentive of up to ₹15,000 in two installments for employees earning salaries up to ₹1 lakh.
  • 1st Instalment: Paid after 6 months of continuous service.
  • 2nd Instalment: Paid after 12 months of service, subject to completion of a financial literacy program.
• To promote savings, a portion of the incentivized amount will be deposited in a fixed savings account for a predetermined duration, accessible for withdrawal later.
• Approximately 1.92 crore first-time employees are expected to benefit from this provision.

Part B – Employer Incentives:

• Aimed at promoting new job creation across various sectors, with heightened emphasis on manufacturing.
• Employers hiring new employees with salaries up to ₹1 lakh will receive an incentive of up to ₹3,000 per month for each new hire, sustained for a minimum of six months.
• For manufacturers, incentives will extend through the 3rd and 4th years of employment.
• This segment is projected to facilitate the hiring of around 2.60 crore additional employees.

Payment Mechanisms:

• Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) will be employed for efficiency, with:
  • Part A Payments: Made to first-time employees through the Aadhar Bridge Payment System (ABPS).
  • Part B Payments: Disbursed directly to the PAN-linked accounts of employers.

Societal Impact:

• The scheme aims to catalyze job creation across all sectors while incentivizing youth entry into the workforce.
• A significant outcome is the formalization of the workforce, which is expected to enhance social security coverage and benefits for millions of young individuals.

Summary Points:

• Launched on August 15, 2025, by PM Modi during the Independence Day address.
• Aims to create 3.5 crore jobs over two years with a budget of nearly ₹1 lakh crore.
• Part A provides wage incentives for first-time employees; Part B provides incentives for employers.
• Employment incentives expected to drive growth in the manufacturing sector and overall job creation.
• DBT mechanisms ensure efficient fund distribution to employees and employers.

This scheme represents a critical governmental initiative aimed at reducing unemployment among the youth and fostering a more structured labor market in India.

India recently hosted the 10th Meeting of the ASEAN–India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) Joint Committee from August 10 to 14, 2025, at Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi. The event utilized a hybrid format and was co-chaired by Shri Nitin Kumar Yadav, Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, and Ms. Mastura Ahmad Mustafa, Deputy Secretary General (Trade), Ministry of Investment, Trade & Industry, Malaysia.

Key Highlights:

• Participation: Delegates from all ten ASEAN Member States—Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam—took part in the discussions.

• Objectives: The primary focus of the Joint Committee was to review and advance the AITIGA agreement, aiming to enhance its effectiveness, accessibility, and trade facilitation capabilities. This was built upon the progress made through eight previous negotiation rounds.

• Sub-Committees' Meetings: Seven Sub-Committees (SC) convened during this period, focusing on:

  • Customs Procedures and Trade Facilitation (SC-CPTF)
  • Legal and Institutional Issues (SC-LII)
  • National Treatment and Market Access (SC-NTMA)
  • Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SC-SPS)
  • Rules of Origin (SC-ROO)
  • Standards, Technical Regulations and Conformity Assessment Procedures (SC-STRACAP)
  • Trade Remedies (SC-TR)

• Collaboration: The meetings served as a platform for deeper collaboration among the member states, ensuring alignment with broader objectives regarding AITIGA.

• Economic Context: ASEAN is a significant trade partner for India, constituting about 11% of India's global trade, with bilateral trade amounting to USD 123 billion in the fiscal year 2024–25. This figure reflects the robust economic ties between India and ASEAN, underscoring potential areas for enhanced cooperation.

• Next Meeting: The subsequent AITIGA Joint Committee meeting is scheduled for October 6-7, 2025, at the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta, Indonesia, which will be hosted by Malaysia.

In summary, the 10th Meeting of the AITIGA Joint Committee signifies India's commitment to strengthening trade relations with ASEAN and enhancing the trading framework, making specific updates to the AITIGA that facilitate trade across member nations.

Important Sentences:

• India hosted the 10th Meeting of AITIGA from August 10 to 14, 2025, in New Delhi.
• The meeting was co-chaired by Indian and Malaysian officials, attended by delegates from ten ASEAN nations.
• The Joint Committee focused on reviewing AITIGA for enhanced trade facilitation and effectiveness.
• Seven Sub-Committees met, addressing various important trade issues.
• ASEAN accounts for about 11% of India's global trade, with bilateral trade reaching USD 123 billion in 2024–25.
• The next meeting is scheduled for October 6-7, 2025, in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Summary of the Article on the Evolution of India's Manufacturing Sector Post-Independence

The article discusses the historical context and evolution of India's manufacturing sector since independence in 1947. It outlines the challenges faced by various governments in enhancing domestic manufacturing and contrasts the growth of the manufacturing sector with that of the services sector over the decades.

• Initial Economic Landscape: Upon gaining independence in 1947, India's economy was predominantly agrarian, with agriculture contributing approximately 50% to the GDP, while manufacturing accounted for about 11%. The services sector has since risen to dominate the economy.

• Planning Phase:

  • First Five-Year Plan (1951-56): Focused on increasing domestic savings to encourage investment. However, the lack of a domestic capital goods sector limited actual investment.
  • Second Five-Year Plan (1956-61): Introduced by economist PC Mahalanobis, aimed at boosting investments in capital goods production through government intervention and support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
  • Before 1991, policies heavily favored public sector investment, considering that private capital would be insufficient for growth.

• Industrial Policy Resolutions:

  • The 1948 Industrial Policy Resolution (IPR) reserved key industries (e.g., arms, aviation, telecommunications) for the public sector.
  • The 1956 IPR broadened the state’s role in the economy, reserving 14 sectors for government agencies and reinforcing the concept of the public sector controlling critical economic sectors.
  • Licensing was implemented to allocate resources to priority sectors, while high tariffs protected domestic industries from international competition.

• Growth Towards 1980: By 1980, manufacturing's share of GDP increased to 16-17%. Some milestones included relaxed regulations and license flexibility, which were perceived as catalysts for growth in manufacturing output.

• 1991 Economic Reforms: Marked a significant shift with the liberalization of the economy, reducing licensing requirements and opening India to market forces. This led to a substantial increase in the contribution of manufacturing to GDP.

• Recent Trends:

  • Post-2015, there has been a gradual decline in manufacturing’s contribution to GDP, dropping from 15.6% in 2015-16 to a projected 12.6% in 2024-25.
  • Contributing factors include the non-performing assets (NPA) crisis, which restricted banks from lending, and increased reliance on imports, particularly from China, reducing manufacturing to largely assembly roles.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these challenges, leading to a contraction in demand and investment.

• Current Landscape: The Modi government's "Make in India" initiative has not succeeded in halting the decline in manufacturing's GDP share. Investments in manufacturing reform require comprehensive state-level cooperation, which has been inconsistent.

• Contrast with Services: While manufacturing struggled, the services sector flourished — accounting for about 58% of GDP today, compared to 37% in 1950. The IT sector’s boom has significantly contributed to this growth trajectory.

• Conclusion: Despite various efforts over 78 years post-independence, the manufacturing sector remains a secondary focus in India's economic narrative, overshadowed by the rapid growth and development of the services sector.

Key Points to Note:

• India's economic evolution saw agriculture dominate initially, with manufacturing remaining stagnant.
• Government investment in the manufacturing sector shifted through various Five-Year Plans.
• Public sector policies and protections shaped early industrialization, leading to growth post-1980.
• The 1991 reforms were crucial but were followed by recent declines linked to NPAs and import dependence.
• The services sector dramatically outpaced manufacturing growth over decades, now constituting about 58% of GDP.

Summary of the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana Announcement

On August 15, 2025, during his 12th Independence Day address at the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, aimed at significantly enhancing youth employment across India. This initiative sets out a clear objective to create over 3.5 crore jobs within a two-year timeframe, backed by a financial outlay of approximately ₹1 lakh crore.

Key Features of the Scheme:

1. Objective: The scheme aims to serve as a bridge from "Swatantra Bharat" (Independent India) to "Samriddha Bharat" (Prosperous India) through substantial employment generation.

2. Financial Provisions:

   • Incentives for Newly Employed Youth: First-time employees can receive a total incentive of up to ₹15,000 in two installments.
   • Employer Incentives: Employers are eligible for incentives of up to ₹3,000 per month for new employees with monthly salaries up to ₹1 lakh.

3. Structure of the Scheme:

   • Part A – Support to First-Time Employees:

     • Targets first-time job seekers registered with the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO).
     • Incentives include:
       • Payment of one-month EPF wage up to ₹15,000 in two installments, with the first installment payable after 6 months of service and the second after 12 months, contingent upon attendance at a financial literacy program.
       • Approximately 1.92 crore first-time employees are expected to benefit from this part.
       • A portion of the incentive will be directed into a savings account to encourage saving habits among youth.

   • Part B – Incentives for Employers:

     • Designed to stimulate job creation across various sectors, with a focus on manufacturing.
     • Employers will be incentivized for creating new jobs sustained for at least six months.
     • For the manufacturing sector, the incentives will extend to the third and fourth years, anticipated to incentivize the hiring of nearly 2.60 crore individuals.

4. Payment Mechanism:

   • Payments for first-time employees under Part A will be processed through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system using the Aadhar Bridge Payment System (ABPS).
   • Employers' payments under Part B will be wired directly into their PAN-linked accounts.

5. Broader Impact:

   • The scheme aims to formalize the workforce in India, thereby extending social security coverage to millions of young workers.
   • By targeting both first-time employees and employers, the program seeks to boost overall employment rates and provide sustained economic growth.

Conclusion

The Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana is a strategic initiative of the Indian government, reflecting its commitment to addressing unemployment through substantial financial support and incentives for both employees and employers. As the country navigates its journey towards prosperity, this scheme represents a significant step in catalyzing job creation and promoting workforce formalization, crucial for the socio-economic development of the nation.

Important Points:

• Launch Date: August 15, 2025.
• Financial outlay: ₹1 lakh crore.
• Job creation target: 3.5 crore jobs in two years.
• Part A: Support for 1.92 crore first-time employees.
• Part B: Incentives targeting 2.60 crore new jobs, focusing on manufacturing.
• Payment mechanisms: Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) and PAN-linked accounts.
• Emphasis on encouraging saving behavior among youth and workforce formalization.