Current Affairs - National

The Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI), introduced by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, utilizes 435 indicators to evaluate the performance of over 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats across India. These indicators span nine Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) themes and are intended to provide a comprehensive framework for assessing rural governance and development. By recognizing over 77,000 high-performing Panchayats, the initiative not only celebrates achievements but also fosters a competitive spirit among local governing bodies. The use of such a broad set of indicators ensures that the assessment is robust, data-driven, and effective for guiding policy and planning at the grassroots level.

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.