Cabinet Approves Continuation of Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS) for FY 2025–26 with 1.5% Interest Subvention and 3% Prompt Repayment Incentive for KCC Loans

 On May 28, 2025, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, approved the continuation of the Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS) for the financial year 2025-26, ensuring affordable credit access for farmers through the Kisan Credit Card (KCC). This decision, with a budgetary allocation of ₹15,640 crore, reinforces the government’s commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity and financial inclusion. 

Cabinet Approves Increased MSP for 14 Kharif Crops for 2025–26; Highest Hike for Nigerseed, Ragi, Cotton, and Sesamum

On May 28, 2025, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, approved the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for 14 Kharif Crops for the Marketing Season 2025-26. This decision aims to ensure remunerative prices for farmers, aligning with the government’s commitment to support agricultural growth. 

FM Nirmala Sitharaman Reviews PSGICs’ Performance, Stresses Digital Transformation, AI-Based Claims, and Innovative Insurance Products for Emerging Risks

 On May 28, 2025, Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, chaired a pivotal review meeting of Public Sector General Insurance Companies (PSGICs) in New Delhi. The meeting focused on enhancing the performance of PSGICs, including New India Assurance, United India Insurance, Oriental Insurance, National Insurance, General Insurance Corporation of India, and Agriculture Insurance Company of India Limited.

India’s Industrial Production Grows by 2.7% in April 2025, Driven by 3.4% Rise in Manufacturing and Strong Performance in Machinery, Auto, and Metals Sectors

India’s Index of Industrial Production (IIP) recorded a year-on-year growth of 2.7% in April 2025, as per the Quick Estimate released on May 28, 2025. This growth, driven primarily by the manufacturing sector, reflects the resilience of India’s industrial landscape. 

NITI Aayog and Raj Bhawan Lucknow Host National Consultation on Ease of Doing R&D to Reform India's Research Ecosystem and Address Systemic Challenges

 A significant step towards bolstering India’s research and development landscape was taken during a Two-day Consultative Meeting held on May 27-28, 2025, at the Raj Bhawan in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Organized by NITI Aayog, the event aimed to address systemic challenges and foster an innovation-friendly environment for Research and Development (R&D). The meeting, chaired by the Hon’ble Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Smt. Anandiben Patel, and Dr. V.K. Saraswat, Member, NITI Aayog, brought together key stakeholders from academia, research institutions, and government to strategize on enhancing India’s R&D ecosystem.

India to Pilot Inclusivity in STEMM Self-Assessment Framework: PSA Prof. Ajay Sood Chairs High-Level Meeting to Operationalise SARF with AICTE, DHE, and CBC

 In a significant move to promote diversity and equity in India’s scientific landscape, a high-level meeting was convened on May 28, 2025, to discuss the operationalisation of the Inclusivity in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM) Self-Assessment and Reporting Framework (Inclusivity-STEMM-SARF). This initiative, led by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (OPSA), aims to address systemic gaps in India’s STEMM ecosystem, ensuring it reflects the country’s diverse demographic and socio-economic fabric.

India Showcases Digital Leadership and MSME Growth at 9th BRICS Industry Ministers’ Meeting in Brasília

On May 21, 2025, India participated in the 9th BRICS Industry Ministers’ Meeting held at the Itamaraty Palace, Brasília, under the chairship of Brazil. The meeting, themed “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance”, brought together representatives from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and newly inducted members like Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. India showcased its advancements in digital transformation and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), emphasizing inclusive growth and industrial resilience. The launch of the BRICS Startup Knowledge Hub was a key highlight, aimed at fostering cross-border innovation.