Current Affairs - National

The "India Skills Accelerator" is a joint initiative launched by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) in collaboration with the World Economic Forum (WEF). This partnership aims to bridge the existing skill gaps and prepare the Indian workforce for emerging high-growth sectors such as artificial intelligence and robotics. By fostering collaboration, enhancing awareness, and strengthening institutional frameworks, the initiative is designed to align workforce skills with future industry demands. WEF's involvement plays a crucial role in bringing global expertise and best practices to support India's vision of a future-ready workforce.

The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced a new Aadhaar-based face authentication feature for generating and activating the Universal Account Number (UAN) via the UMANG app. This advancement is part of EPFO’s efforts to simplify and modernize the user experience. The face authentication method provides a secure and contactless way for users to activate their UAN using Aadhaar-linked credentials. Additionally, EPFO is planning to expand this technology to help pensioners submit their digital life certificates through the Jeevan Pramaan portal, further promoting ease of access and digital governance in employee and pensioner services.

India has been elected uncontested to the United Nations' Intergovernmental Working Group of Experts on International Standards of Accounting and Reporting (ISAR) for the term spanning 2025 to 2027. This appointment highlights India's increasing influence in global financial reporting and its commitment to improving transparency and standardization in accounting practices. ISAR, established under the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in 1982, plays a vital role in strengthening international corporate reporting frameworks. India’s participation during this term will contribute to shaping global policies that promote economic stability, enhance investor confidence, and encourage sustainable financial practices.

The MUDRA Scheme, launched in 2015, was designed to offer collateral-free loans to non-corporate, non-farm small and micro-entrepreneurs across India. It is facilitated by the Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency Ltd. (MUDRA). One of its standout achievements is recording the world’s lowest NPA (Non-Performing Asset) rate at just 3.5%. This low NPA rate indicates that the majority of borrowers are repaying their loans on time, reflecting the success of the scheme in empowering small entrepreneurs while maintaining strong financial discipline. The rate underscores the scheme’s impact on financial inclusion and responsible credit usage.

The sex ratio at birth has improved from 918 in 2014-15 to 930 in 2023-24. This progress is largely attributed to the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Scheme, which was launched in 2015 to address the declining child sex ratio. The scheme promotes gender equality, girl empowerment, and mindset changes towards the value of girls in society. Additionally, girls' secondary school enrollment has increased from 75% to 78% during this period, indicating the positive effects of these efforts.