Six new schemes have been launched by the Himachal Pradesh government

Current Context: On December 11, 2024, to mark the completion of two years of his government, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched six new schemes aimed at various areas:

• Natural Farming Promotion Scheme: Encourages farmers to adopt natural farming practices, reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides for healthier, sustainable farming.
• Small Farmers Support Scheme: Provides financial and technical assistance to small and marginal farmers to boost their productivity and income.
• Rural Income Enhancement Scheme: Aims to diversify and increase sources of income in rural areas through various agricultural and non-agricultural activities.
• Healthcare Access Improvement Scheme: Focuses on improving healthcare facilities and making them more accessible, particularly in remote and rural areas.
• Rural Infrastructure Development Scheme: Initiates projects to develop and upgrade rural infrastructure, including roads, irrigation systems, and community facilities.
• Educational Initiatives Scheme: Launches new educational programs and scholarships to support the education and skill development of youth in the state.
• These schemes are designed to improve the overall quality of life for the people of Himachal Pradesh, focusing on sustainability, economic growth, and access to essential services.

Question:

1. Which scheme is aimed at enhancing rural income through diversification in both agricultural and non-agricultural activities in Himachal Pradesh?

• A) Rural Income Enhancement Scheme
• B) Educational Initiatives Scheme
• C) Healthcare Access Improvement Scheme
• D) Natural Farming Promotion Scheme

Answer: A) The Rural Income Enhancement Scheme focuses on diversifying income sources in rural areas, promoting a mix of agricultural and non-agricultural ventures to boost economic resilience.