In a significant boost to rural economy and infrastructure, the last 24 hours have seen several major policy announcements by the Government of India. From direct financial transfers to farmers to the expansion of aviation connectivity, these updates are crucial for students preparing for competitive examinations.
1. Release of 22nd Installment of PM-KISAN Scheme
On March 13, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the 22nd installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme during a program in Guwahati, Assam. Under this installment, a total of ₹18,640 crore was directly transferred to the bank accounts of approximately 9.32 crore farmers across the country.
- Women Empowerment: Notably, more than 2.15 crore women farmers received the financial benefit, highlighting the growing role of women in the agricultural sector.
- Total Disbursement: Since its inception, the government has transferred more than ₹4.09 lakh crore to farmers through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.
2. International Status for Madurai Airport
The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister, has officially approved the declaration of Madurai Airport in Tamil Nadu as an international airport. This move is expected to enhance global air connectivity, boost tourism in the temple city, and provide a fillip to regional economic growth in Southern India.
3. NITI Aayog’s Fiscal Health Index (FHI) 2026
NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman Suman Bery released the second annual edition of the Fiscal Health Index 2026. The index evaluates the financial soundness of Indian states based on data from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) for FY24.
- Top Performer: Odisha secured the first rank with an FHI score of 73.1.
- Other Leaders: Goa (54.7) and Jharkhand (50.5) followed in the second and third positions, respectively.
4. Diplomatic and Economic Highlights
On the international front, India co-sponsored a UN Security Council (UNSC) resolution condemning attacks in the Gulf region. Prime Minister Modi also held a telephonic conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss the escalating tensions in West Asia and the safety of Indian nationals.
Domestically, India's retail inflation for February 2026 was reported at 3.21%, a slight increase from 2.74% in January, but still well within the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) comfort zone of 2–6%.
5. Agricultural Milestone
India has officially surpassed China to become the largest supplier of cotton products (including apparel and home textiles) to the United States. This marks a historic shift in global textile trade dynamics, showcasing India's increasing manufacturing prowess.