Cabinet Approves DA Increase for Central Government Employees
On March 28, 2025, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a 2% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for central government employees and pensioners. With this revision, DA rises from 53% to 55% of basic pay, effective from January 1, 2025. Benefiting around 49 lakh employees and 66.55 lakh pensioners, the move aims to alleviate inflation’s impact. The decision, based on the 7th Central Pay Commission’s recommendations, will cost the government ₹7,716 crore annually. This measure reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to support its workforce and address the rising cost of living.
Nicholas Pooran Tops IPL 2025 with Stellar Batting Performances
Nicholas Pooran of Lucknow Super Giants leads the IPL 2025 Orange Cap race with spectacular batting. His blistering 70-run innings off just 26 balls against Sunrisers Hyderabad, featuring six boundaries and six sixes, showcased his explosive power. With back-to-back half-centuries, Pooran has accumulated 145 runs at an astonishing strike rate of 258.92. His consistent contributions have been pivotal in his team’s success, cementing his status as one of the tournament’s standout performers. Pooran’s dominance promises an action-packed IPL season, keeping fans on the edge of their seats with his match-winning knocks.
Digital Crop Survey System Enhances Precision in Agriculture
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has unveiled the Digital Crop Survey (DCS) System to revolutionize crop data collection. Using a mobile-based platform, the system captures real-time data on crops directly from fields, ensuring reliable production estimates. Integrated with the Agri Stack, it safeguards data privacy by obtaining farmers’ consent and supports tenant and lessee farmers for inclusivity. By leveraging advanced technology and ensuring compliance with cybersecurity standards, the DCS promotes accuracy and transparency. This initiative aims to empower farmers, enhance decision-making, and modernize India’s agricultural practices for a more sustainable and productive future.
India Ends Gold Monetisation Scheme, Revises Deposit Options
The Government of India has discontinued the Medium and Long-Term Government Deposit (MLTGD) parts of the Gold Monetisation Scheme (GMS) as of March 26, 2025, after evaluating its performance. Short-term deposits under GMS will still be allowed at the discretion of individual banks. Existing MLTGD deposits remain valid and will follow current guidelines until maturity. Launched in 2015 to reduce gold imports and promote productive use of idle gold, the GMS saw limited success. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will issue detailed instructions to clarify the revised policies and ensure a smooth transition for depositors.
Disaster Management Amendment Bill 2024: Strengthening India’s Response Mechanism
The Indian Parliament has enacted the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill 2024 to improve the efficiency of disaster response systems across various levels. It revises the 2005 Act, empowering National and State Disaster Management Authorities (NDMA and SDMA) to craft disaster plans while establishing Urban Disaster Management Authorities for municipal cities. The Bill requires states to form State Disaster Response Forces (SDRFs) and create comprehensive disaster databases for risk assessment. By addressing climate challenges and formalizing existing frameworks, this legislation aims to bolster India’s preparedness, resilience, and ability to efficiently respond to emergencies and safeguard its citizens.
Government to Raise Rs 8 Lakh Crore Through Bonds in First Half of FY26 President
The Indian government, in collaboration with the Reserve Bank of India, plans to raise Rs 8 lakh crore through dated securities in the first half of FY26. This accounts for 54% of the annual borrowing target of Rs 14.82 lakh crore. The borrowing will include Rs 10,000 crore through Sovereign Green Bonds and span 26 weekly auctions with maturities ranging from 3 to 50 years. These funds aim to address the projected fiscal deficit of 4.4% of GDP and support infrastructure development, ensuring adequate liquidity and effective fiscal management for the nation.