In a significant development for India's manufacturing sector, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has extended the application window for Round 4 of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for White Goods (Air Conditioners and LED Lights) until November 10, 2025. This extension comes in response to robust industry interest and increasing investment appetite, aiming to further boost domestic manufacturing, promote component localization, and enhance India's global competitiveness in these sectors. The scheme, launched in April 2021 with a corpus of ā¹6,238 crore, has already attracted substantial investment commitments in previous rounds, contributing to increased manufacturing capacity and employment generation.
On the social policy front, the Government of Karnataka has approved a landmark "Menstrual Leave Policy, 2025," granting one day of paid leave every month to all women employees across various sectors, including government offices, IT firms, and private companies. This progressive step positions Karnataka as one of the first Indian states to formally institutionalize menstrual leave on such a broad scale, aiming to remove stigma, encourage supportive workplaces, and allow women to prioritize their health without career penalties.
President Droupadi Murmu underscored the importance of the 'Adi Karmayogi' initiative, a program designed to foster self-reliance and ensure access to essential infrastructure like homes, roads, electricity, and water for Adivasi communities. Speaking at the National Conclave on the Adi Karmayogi capacity-building program, organized by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, President Murmu emphasized the government's commitment to integrating tribal communities into the 'Viksit Bharat 2047' vision through a truly participatory approach to development.
In a move towards sustainable transportation, the Union Cabinet has approved a new Electric Mobility Acceleration Policy. This policy is designed to stimulate the production of electric vehicles (EVs), reduce the nation's reliance on fuel imports, and create new green job opportunities within the country.
The Government of India's ongoing 'Special Campaign 5.0', which runs from October 2 to 31, 2025, focuses on institutionalizing Swachhata (cleanliness) and minimizing pendency across government offices. The Department of Health & Family Welfare reported significant mid-campaign progress, including the disposal of 3,046 public grievances, the review and weeding out of thousands of physical and e-files, and the generation of revenue through the disposal of scrap materials.
Maharashtra is set to establish a dedicated "health war room" to integrate and streamline various health-related schemes launched by both central and state governments. This initiative aims to prevent beneficiaries from receiving double benefits and to enhance the efficiency of healthcare service delivery. A common toll-free number (18001232211) will be introduced to provide comprehensive aid for health-related issues.
In Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced a revised system for scholarship distribution, moving to a two-phase disbursement in October and January to ensure timely financial assistance for students. Over 10 lakh students recently received scholarships totaling more than ā¹300 crore through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). The CM highlighted various educational initiatives, including Atal Residential Schools and schemes for Scheduled Castes and other marginalized communities, emphasizing the government's commitment to educational empowerment.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the "GST Bachat Utsav" in Arunachal Pradesh, marking the introduction of "Next-Gen GST reforms." These reforms aim to simplify the tax structure by streamlining rates primarily to 5% and 18%, thereby reducing prices of essential goods and services and passing savings directly to consumers. The initiative is particularly beneficial for agricultural, horticultural, processed, and artisanal products in states like Arunachal Pradesh, where GST on these items has been significantly reduced.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has released a draft Overseas Mobility (Facilitation and Welfare) Bill. This proposed legislation aims to establish a regulatory mechanism for the safe migration of Indians, particularly those seeking blue-collar jobs abroad, and will replace the existing Emigration Act of 1983. The draft bill also addresses issues of deportation and illegal migration, which have gained significant political attention recently.
Finally, Karnataka is embarking on a comprehensive transformation of its Public Schools (KPS) through a new policy framework. This includes plans to establish 800 new KPS, with funding from sources like the Asian Development Bank. The policy aims to streamline administration, improve academic outcomes, and enhance accountability. Key reforms include administrative consolidation, structural changes, and ensuring staffing stability with a minimum 10-year tenure for teachers in KPS.