Fortnightly Policy & Economic Updates: A Detailed Review (June 2 - June 14, 2025)
A Comprehensive Review of Policy & Economic Decisions Impacting Development Fortnightly in India.
I. Introduction :
Welcome to our latest edition of Fortnightly Policy & Economic Updates, covering the pivotal period from June 2, 2025, to June 14, 2025. This installment delves into a series of significant government decisions and announcements made by various State Governments and Union Territories across India. As the nation continues its dynamic trajectory of growth and development, these localized policy shifts are instrumental in shaping regional economies, influencing social welfare, and driving infrastructural progress.
In this comprehensive review, we aim to provide an in-depth analysis of both immediate actionable initiatives and long-term strategic plans. From financial aid enhancements and agricultural reforms to environmental protection measures and technological advancements, the past fortnight has seen a diverse array of policy interventions. Understanding these developments is crucial for policymakers, businesses, and citizens alike, as they collectively impact the socio-economic landscape of the country. Join us as we dissect these crucial updates, highlighting their summaries, implications, and potential future trajectories.
Government Decisions/Announcements with Immediate Actionable Value -
I. Madhya Pradesh
A. Government Hikes Financial Assistance Under Ladli Behna Yojana
Summary: The scheme aims to gradually raise monthly aid to women from ₹1,250 to ₹3,000 over five years, starting this Raksha Bandhan. It currently covers 1.27 crore women aged 23-60 and now links with key central pension and insurance schemes for broader support.
Implications: Increased disposable income can improve participation in household decisions by encouraging savings, healthcare spending, or small-scale entrepreneurship among women, stimulating micro and small businesses. Cash transfers would increase local demand for goods and services, especially in rural areas. Beneficiary households may invest more in children's education, nutrition, and medical care. The proposed hike would significantly increase the burden on the public exchequer.
II. Bihar
A. Establishment Of Farm Machinery Banks
Summary: This policy aims to enhance agricultural productivity and farmer incomes by establishing 38 new Farm Machinery Banks during the 2025-26 period. In the initial phase, 1,000 Primary Agriculture Cooperative Societies (PACS) will be equipped with these banks, ensuring improved access to modern agricultural machinery. By offering equipment at subsidized rates, the initiative seeks to reduce the burden of high input costs and promote greater farm mechanization, tailored to meet local crop and soil needs. This approach is expected to make farming more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable in the long term.
Implications: This initiative boosts access to mechanization by allowing small and marginal farmers to rent machines affordably, addressing constraints like high upfront costs and fragmented land holdings. It will reduce farmers' financial burden and modernize farming practices. Shared use of machinery through banks lowers the need for individual ownership, cutting down overall farming costs. Mechanization would also help farmers cope with labor shortages, especially during peak sowing/harvest, improving timeliness of operations. Farmer groups, cooperatives, and self-help groups will be benefited.
B. Land Helpline Center
Summary: The center aims to provide accessible, transparent, and citizen-friendly land-related services through a simple phone call. Implemented in collaboration with CSC e-Governance Services India Limited, trained call agents will handle queries and provide accurate, easy-to-understand guidance on a range of land and revenue-related issues. The CSC network will facilitate outreach across every panchayat, ensuring last-mile delivery. The helpline would provide assistance with land documents; information on land-related government schemes; and real-time updates on application status.
Implications: This initiative will reduce errors and disputes by ensuring consistent, accurate information and complements broader land digitization efforts like DILRMP and SVAMITVA by making digital records more usable at the grassroots. It would improve transparency and accessibility by offering direct guidance on land records, schemes, and grievances, reducing reliance on middlemen. It will help reduce service delays by enabling faster resolution and real-time tracking through trained call agents. Real-time updates on applications will reduce corruption and delays in land-related processes.
C. Reduction Of VAT On Aviation Turbine Fuel
Summary: The State Government has reduced the Value Added Tax (VAT) on Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) from 29% to just 4% across all operational airports in the state. This move is aimed at attracting a higher number of commercial flights within and beyond the state. The policy is a strategic step in support of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS-UDAN) and reflects close alignment with central government recommendations to improve accessibility, affordability, and infrastructure in India's civil aviation sector.
Implications: Lowering VAT would boost airline interest and flight frequency and enhance Bihar's attractiveness to airlines. By decreasing operational costs, the reduction makes air travel more affordable, encouraging inbound tourism and benefiting heritage and religious destinations. This would lead to increased commercial air traffic and strengthen the state's logistics infrastructure. Easier and more affordable air access will promote tourism and stimulate local economic activity. It supports the Regional Connectivity Scheme (UDAN), attracting airlines to underserved routes and enhancing intra-state flight operations.
III. Tamil Nadu
A. Learn A Lot Scheme
Summary: This scheme provides curriculum-based tutoring in core academic subjects, along with digital literacy, to help bridge academic gaps among underserved students. It targets younger, first-generation learners residing in government-run school hostels, reaching approximately 44,500 children across 997 hostels. Beyond academics, the initiative offers training in fine arts, sports, and basic computer skills. To build essential life skills, the program also includes interactive workshops and field visits. It will be implemented zone-wise, delivered through classes in hostel common rooms, on-site satellite learning centers, and online webinars.
Implications: Bridges skill and academic gaps by delivering structured tutoring in STEM and languages. Reinforces holistic development, complementing textbook education with co-scholastic training, value education, and exposure to goal-setting and career awareness. Promotes inclusivity and equity, ensuring that economically disadvantaged, first-generation learners have access to quality learning resources. Flexible delivery adapts to infrastructure, with a mix of on-site, satellite center, and online modules. Encourages long-term human capital investment, with early skill-building interventions. Aligns with NEP 2020 by fostering holistic development through foundational literacy and promoting multidisciplinary learning.
B. Social Labs
Summary: Aimed at building employability skills, boosting self-confidence, and fostering a structured mentorship ecosystem to make students job-ready. Designed for first-generation college learners from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, covering 174 college hostels and around 12,910 students. Includes training in spoken English, personality development, MS Office, Tally, arts, and sports to develop both technical and interpersonal competencies. Facilitates connections with industry volunteers, alumni, and local professionals who provide guidance. To be implemented zone-wise across the state, with sessions conducted online, offline, or in blended formats.
Implications: Enhances employability and professional readiness, preparing hostel residents to be job-ready rather than just college-ready. Connects students with industry professionals and alumni, providing real-world career insights and networking opportunities. Helps rural and economically weak students compete better in academics and secure employment. Supports first-generation learners with holistic development, addressing academic, professional, and interpersonal skill gaps. Drives long-term human capital development, leveraging early and sustained social and economic interventions to yield high returns. Embodies NEP 2020's vision through vocational-academic integration (Tally/MS Office training) and critical life skills mentorship.
IV. Uttar Pradesh
A. 20% Reservation for Ex-Agniveers in State Police
Summary: The policy supplements the Agniveer scheme launched by the Central Government by providing a clear pathway for career transition into state services. It introduces a 20% horizontal reservation in the Uttar Pradesh state police force for ex-Agniveers who have completed their four-year term of service under the scheme. This reservation will apply to various cadres, including Constable Police, Pradeshik Armed Constabulary (PAC), Mounted Police, and Fire Services, expanding opportunities across multiple uniformed services. The policy is set to be implemented from 2026 onwards, and to facilitate smoother re-entry into civilian roles, a special age relaxation of three years post-retirement will be granted to eligible ex-Agniveers.
Implications: Knowing guaranteed job opportunities exist in state services makes short-term defence postings more attractive, potentially improving recruitment under the Agnipath scheme. Provides a structured career transition for ex-Agniveers, ensuring job security post-military service. Would strengthen institutional capacity of the state police and paramilitary forces by recruitment of trained and disciplined ex-service personnel. Enhances financial and social stability by offering much-needed economic security and reduces stress for young Agniveers navigating post-service uncertainty.
V. Andhra Pradesh
A. Monthly Aid To Unemployed Veda Pandits
Summary: A monthly honorarium of ₹3,000 for 6,000 unemployed Veda pundits across the state for a period of three years, aiming to support traditional Vedic scholars and preserve Vedic knowledge systems. Additionally, the state plans to allocate ₹500 crore for temple renovations and will launch daily free meal services (Nitya Annadanam) at 70 temples, with plans to expand the initiative to more locations in the future.
Implications: Providing honorariums to Veda pundits will help safeguard and promote Vedic traditions, ensuring their continuity for future generations. Investment in infrastructure and public amenities can improve the overall experience for devotees and boost religious tourism.
VI. Karnataka
A. Amendment To Cigarettes And Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003
Summary: The minimum legal age to buy cigarettes and other tobacco products has been increased from 18 to 21 years. The maximum fine for violations has been hiked from ₹200 to ₹1,000. Violating this ban can result in imprisonment for 1–3 years and a fine ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh. Sale of tobacco products is prohibited within a 100-meter radius of any educational institution. Retailers are not allowed to sell cigarettes or other tobacco products in loose form or as single sticks. The law now prohibits both smoking and spitting of tobacco in public places. Designated smoking areas are still permitted in hotels with 30 or more rooms, restaurants with a seating capacity of 30 or more, and at airports.
Implications: Reducing initiation and addiction rates among adolescents and young adults. Increasing the maximum fine for violations to ₹1,000 is expected to deter businesses and individuals from breaking the law. Helps shield students from exposure and easy access to tobacco. The amendments align Karnataka’s tobacco control efforts with broader national initiatives and global best practices.
VII. Chhattisgarh
A. Transfer Policy 2025
Summary: Allows transfers for eligible personnel with a minimum of two years of service, to be processed between June 6 and June 25, 2025. Certain departments, including Police, Excise, and Education, are excluded from the purview of this policy. Transfer limits have been set at 10% for Class III and 15% for Class IV staff. All transfers will be processed through an online system to enhance transparency. Special emphasis on addressing staffing gaps in remote and scheduled areas. Employees dissatisfied with their transfer orders can file an appeal within 15 days of the issuance of the transfer decision.
Implications: 10-15% transfer caps prevent mass disruptions while allowing reasonable staff rotation. Prioritizing staffing gaps in underserved regions improves public service delivery.
B. Homestay Policy 2025-30
Summary: The policy aims at transforming remote tribal and rural areas, once off-limits due to Maoist insurgency, into vibrant tourism hubs. It is designed to showcase the unique lifestyle, traditions, and crafts of tribal communities while also offering travelers an immersive rural experience. Under the policy, visitors will be encouraged to stay in local homes in villages that still bear the legacy of conflict, offering an opportunity to experience the region’s culture and natural landscapes. The initiative would provide new livelihood opportunities for villagers, aligning with the central government's 'Vocal for Local' campaign.
Implications: Containment of any residual Maoist influence, ensuring it does not resurface in vulnerable areas. The policy would promote tourism in rural and tribal-dominated areas which have been affected by Maoist insurgency, especially Bastar and Surguja. Would generate new income and self-employment opportunities for local residents, women, and youth. Supports the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative by boosting sales of local products and crafts. Seeks to bring development and peace to Maoist-affected regions by integrating them into the tourism map.
VIII. Andaman And Nicobar
A. Discontinuation Of No Dues Certificate For Property Registration
Summary: Aimed at simplified property registration by eliminating the requirement for ‘No Dues’, ‘Non-Encumbrance’, and ‘Valuation Certificates’. The Sub-Registrar will now verify revenue payments directly, and property valuation will be based on notified circle rates, streamlining the registration process.
Implications: Removal of certificate requirements cuts bureaucratic delays, speeding up property deals. Buyers/sellers no longer need to procure multiple documents, lowering costs. Circle-rate valuation minimizes discretionary power and potential corruption. Demand-based allocation ensures efficient resource use in remote areas.
IX. Assam
A. Mukhya Mantrir Jiban Anuprerana Scheme
Summary: The scheme aims to empower research scholars by alleviating financial barriers and encouraging more youth to pursue research careers. Financial Assistance: Full-time research scholars will receive a one-time grant of ₹25,000. Divyang (specially-abled) research scholars will receive an enhanced one-time grant of ₹40,000. Open exclusively to permanent residents of Assam enrolled in full-time research programmes at public institutions, including both State and Central universities.
Implications: Will encourage more post-graduate students to enroll in full-time Ph.D. or equivalent programmes and reduce drop-outs caused by financial constraints. Promotes equitable access in higher education, helping differently-abled researchers participate fully in academic R&D. Elevate the quality and quantity of research and scholarly work in Assam’s universities, facilitating research and innovation across the region.
X. Uttarakhand
A. Increase In Ex-Gratia Amount To Dependents Of Martyred Soldiers
Summary: The Government has raised the ex-gratia grant for the dependents of soldiers killed in action from ₹10 lakh to ₹50 lakh. The new ex-gratia rate (₹50 lakh) is effective retrospectively from July 26, 2024, ensuring no gap in benefits for eligible families. The window to apply for state government jobs has been lengthened from two to five years, with reserved group C and D posts in district offices.
Implications: Provides a substantial lump-sum infusion, helping families meet long-term needs such as children’s education, healthcare, housing or debt repayment. Will work as a morale booster among serving personnel. Guaranteed reservation in district-level Group C and D positions ensures a stable, government-salaried career path, reducing financial vulnerability and debt burden for households that have lost their primary earner.
XI. Punjab
A. Loan Waiver For Dalit Families
Summary: A ₹68 crore loan waiver has been approved for 4,727 Dalit families who had availed loans from the Punjab Scheduled Castes Land Development and Finance Corporation for activities such as shop establishment, dairy farming, and other self-employment ventures. The waiver applies to loans incurred before March 31, 2020, and covers the entire outstanding amount, including principal, interest, and penal interest. Aims to provide long-overdue financial relief to members of the Scheduled Caste community, fulfilling a key budget promise.
Implications: Enables families to reallocate income toward essentials like education, healthcare, and livelihood improvement. Enhances dignity, reduces dependency on informal moneylenders, and promotes financial inclusion for Dalit families. Sets a concerning precedent for caste-based loan waivers in the future for other states, potentially undermining fiscal discipline.
B. Farm Diversification Plan
Summary: Plan to diversify 12,000 hectares of paddy to kharif maize in the year 2025. Farmers adopting maize cultivation to receive a financial incentive of ₹17,500 per hectare. Six districts—Bathinda, Sangrur, Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Jalandhar, and Kapurthala—to spearhead the pilot project. The state government appointed 200 kisan mitras to promote the initiative.
Implications: Exposes farmers to market risks without any robust support system, as paddy offers security through MSP-backed procurement. Shifts farmers away from water-intensive paddy cultivation to crops like maize, pulses, and oilseeds. Will promote farm diversification and check depleting ground water. Will offer wider market and income efficiency for farmers. Improve soil health, reduce water consumption, and create a more resilient agricultural system.
XII. Maharashtra
A. Independent Commission For Scheduled Tribes
Summary: Following the model of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), it aims to enhance the autonomy, authority, and effectiveness of institutions dedicated to tribal welfare. The Commission will have a Chairperson and 4 non-government members, supported by 26 additional staff posts for daily operations. The cabinet has sanctioned ₹4.20 crore for administrative expenses. Both the State Tribal Commission and the State Scheduled Castes Commission will function independently.
Implications: Will ensure focused attention on tribal issues and welfare. Improves delivery and monitoring of tribal schemes. Gives ST communities a stronger voice and grievance addressing platform. Helps protect tribal rights and promote their social and educational development and increases government accountability for tribal welfare.
XIII. Haryana
A. Saheli Programme
Summary: Aims to prevent unsafe and illegal abortions and improve maternal health. The program would involve 50,000 health workers (20,000 ASHAs and 30,000 ANMs) making daily calls and visits to pregnant women to monitor and report miscarriages in real-time. Includes strict regulations on MTP kit sales, mandatory reporting by suppliers, and active involvement of senior health officers in monitoring. Poised as a model for maternal health surveillance, blending community engagement, technology, and stricter regulations.
Implications: Real-time monitoring of pregnancies by ASHAs/ANMs enables early detection of complications, reducing maternal mortality. Strict oversight of MTP kit sales prevents misuse while maintaining legal access. Focus on high-risk districts helps prevent sex-selective abortions, addressing skewed sex ratios.
B. Annual Agricultural Plan 2025-26
Summary: Major focus on on-farm water management; large-scale promotion of Underground Pipeline (UGPL) systems in water-stressed districts. Emphasis on on-farm water management and natural farming, crop diversification, and soil health. Will scale up natural farming practices and introduce a vegetable-centric integrated model to improve soil health and encourage crop diversity. Support for mushroom farming with a central unit at Regional Research Station (RRS), Karnal, training through Krishi Vigyan Kendras. The state will fund new research labs, mechanization centers, and technology for rapeseed and mustard crops.
Implications: Enhanced agricultural productivity and will promote sustainable practices. Will reduce chemical dependency, improve long-term fertility, and promote eco-friendly agriculture. Investments in mechanisation, especially for crops like mustard and rapeseed, will reduce labour dependency, increase productivity, and modernise rural farming practices. Underground Pipeline (UGPL) systems will reduce water wastage and energy use, helping combat the groundwater crisis in critical districts.
XIV. Gujarat
A. MoU Between Gujarat Government And Amazon To Help MSMEs
Summary: Gujarat Government and Amazon India signed an MoU to boost MSME exports via digital trade platforms. The partnership includes workshops and training to help local businesses start and scale exports using Amazon Global Selling. Amazon will help set up an export community in Gandhinagar for ongoing support and collaboration among exporters.
Implications: Would enable Gujarat’s MSMEs to access international markets through Amazon’s platform. Would provide training and resources to help local businesses adopt digital export strategies. Expected to increase export volumes and revenue for Gujarat’s MSMEs, contributing to economic growth and job creation. Boosts skill development among local entrepreneurs, preparing them for the demands of global e-commerce.
XV. Rajasthan
A. Senior Citizen Pilgrimage Scheme 2025-26
Summary: The scheme aims to facilitate pilgrimages for senior citizens, allowing them to visit various religious sites within India.
Government Decisions/Announcements With Long-Term Actionables
I. Maharashtra
A. Infra ID System
Summary: Each public infrastructure project in Maharashtra to be assigned a geo-tagged 13-digit alphanumeric UID for administrative approval and record keeping. Infrastructural assets will now be digitally mapped and monitored via the MRSAC platform.
Implications: Enhances transparency and accountability in public project management by enabling real-time tracking and preventing duplication. Streamlines project approvals and reduces delays through centralized digital record-keeping. Improves maintenance and resource allocation by providing comprehensive data on infrastructure assets. Facilitates data-driven policy-making and strategic urban planning for sustainable development.
II. Delhi
A. 25 Point Air Pollution Mitigation Plan
Summary: Bans non-compliant commercial vehicles, allowing only BS-VI, CNG, or electric ones. The Plan aims to expand public EV infrastructure with new electric autos, buses, and 18,000 charging points and targets net-zero waste to landfills by 2028.
Implications: Aims to significantly reduce air pollution by curbing vehicular emissions, leading to improved public health outcomes. Promotes a shift towards sustainable transportation and energy, accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles and renewable energy sources. Reduces landfill burden and promotes circular economy principles, contributing to a cleaner environment. Positions Delhi as a leader in urban environmental management and climate action.
III. Madhya Pradesh
B. Gomukh Reservoir Irrigation Initiative
Summary: Under the initiative, ₹1,400 crore has been allocated to irrigate 25,000+ hectares across Jabalpur and Mandla, benefiting over 25,000 farmers. The initiative aims to enhance water access supporting crop productivity and diversification.
Implications: Boosts agricultural output and farmer livelihoods in drought-prone regions through reliable water supply. Promotes crop diversification and sustainable farming practices by reducing reliance on erratic rainfall. Contributes to regional food security and economic stability by strengthening the agricultural sector. Improves groundwater levels and ecological balance through efficient water management techniques.
IV. Andhra Pradesh
A. Electronics Component Manufacturing Policy 4.0
Summary: The policy, aligned with the national ECMS, strengthens domestic electronic component production by offering a 50% capital-expenditure subsidy, turnover-linked rewards, and layered incentives.
Implications: Attracts significant investment in electronic manufacturing, creating high-skill jobs and fostering technological innovation. Reduces India’s dependence on imported electronic components, bolstering domestic supply chains and national security. Enhances global competitiveness of Andhra Pradesh in the electronics sector, driving export growth and revenue. Supports the 'Make in India' and 'Digital India' initiatives by creating a robust manufacturing ecosystem.
B. State Quantum Mission
Summary: The mission focuses on developing quantum computing technologies and applications within the state.
Implications: Positions Andhra Pradesh at the forefront of emerging technologies, attracting top talent and research institutions. Fosters innovation and intellectual property development in critical sectors like healthcare, finance, and defense. Creates new job opportunities in specialized fields and strengthens the state’s knowledge economy. Enhances the state's competitiveness in the global technology landscape.
C. MoU Between Andhra Pradesh Government And NVIDIA To Establish AI University
Summary: This MoU aims to establish an AI University in Andhra Pradesh, fostering research, development, and talent in artificial intelligence.
Implications: Establishes Andhra Pradesh as a hub for AI innovation and education, attracting leading researchers and students. Drives economic growth by developing a skilled AI workforce and promoting AI-powered industries. Facilitates groundbreaking research and development in AI, addressing local and global challenges. Strengthens collaborations between academia, industry, and government for technological advancement.
V. Odisha
A. Mukhya Mantri Sahari Bikash Yojana (MSBY)
Summary: A ₹6,000 crore, five-year plan (2025-2030) aims to build public facilities like town halls, roads, parks, vending zones, EV charging stations, and mini cold storage units.
Implications: Improves urban infrastructure and quality of life for citizens, enhancing public services and amenities. Boosts local economies by creating employment opportunities in construction and related sectors. Promotes sustainable urban development through the integration of green spaces and EV charging infrastructure. Attracts investment and tourism by enhancing the aesthetic appeal and functionality of urban areas.
B. Biotechnology Development Scheme
Summary: This scheme focuses on promoting biotechnology research, development, and commercialization in the state.
Implications: Fosters innovation and entrepreneurship in the biotechnology sector, leading to new discoveries and products. Creates high-skilled job opportunities and attracts talent to the state. Addresses critical societal challenges in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. Positions Odisha as a key player in India's growing biotechnology industry.
VI. Assam
A. Approval Of Construction Of Kulti Multi Purpose Irrigation And Hydroelectric Project
Summary: A proposed 55 MW hydroelectric project near the Assam-Meghalaya border aims to generate power and irrigate 26,000 hectares, benefiting both states and aiding flood control in Guwahati.
Implications: Addresses power shortages and promotes renewable energy generation, contributing to energy security. Enhances agricultural productivity and farmer livelihoods through reliable irrigation for 26,000 hectares. Mitigates flood risks in Guwahati and surrounding areas, protecting lives and property. Fosters inter-state cooperation and regional development through shared resource management.
VII. Telangana
A. Backwardness Index
Summary: Telangana's survey of Social, Education, Economic, Employment, Political, Caste Survey is being used to scientifically quantify caste-based backwardness.
Implications: Enables evidence-based policy-making for targeted interventions to address disparities and promote equitable development. Improves transparency and accountability in the allocation of resources and implementation of welfare schemes. Fosters social justice and inclusion by identifying and addressing systemic inequalities. Provides valuable data for academic research and public discourse on socio-economic backwardness.
VIII. Uttarakhand
A. Reverse Migration Survey
Summary: This survey aims to understand the patterns and reasons behind people returning to Uttarakhand, focusing on demographic, economic, and social factors.
Implications: Provides crucial data for developing effective policies to support returning migrants and integrate them into the state's economy. Helps identify opportunities for livelihood generation and skill development in rural areas to curb out-migration. Facilitates infrastructure development and public service provision based on the needs of growing local populations. Contributes to the revitalization of rural economies and cultural preservation in the state.
IX. Kerala
A. Draft Kerala State Electricity Regulatory Commission (Renewable Energy and Related Matters) Regulations, 2025
Summary: The regulations set comprehensive guidelines for generation, distribution, metering, and billing of electricity from renewable sources.
Implications: Accelerates the adoption of renewable energy sources, contributing to Kerala's energy security and climate goals. Attracts investment in renewable energy projects and fosters a robust green energy ecosystem. Promotes sustainable energy practices and reduces reliance on fossil fuels. Benefits consumers through transparent metering and billing mechanisms for renewable energy consumption.
X. Uttar Pradesh
A. Sustainable Aviation Fuel Manufacturing Promotion Policy
Summary: This policy aims to promote the production and use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) within the state.
Implications: Positions Uttar Pradesh as a leader in green aviation fuel production, attracting investments and creating new jobs. Contributes to the decarbonization of the aviation sector and reduces carbon emissions. Fosters technological innovation and research in renewable energy and biofuels. Enhances energy security by diversifying fuel sources for aviation.
B. Homestay and Bed and Breakfast (B&B) Policy 2025
Summary: This policy aims to promote tourism by encouraging the development of homestays and Bed and Breakfast accommodations across Uttar Pradesh.
Implications: Boosts tourism in rural and lesser-known areas, diversifying revenue streams for local communities. Creates self-employment opportunities for homeowners and promotes local culture and hospitality. Enhances the overall tourist experience by offering authentic local stays and personalized services. Supports the 'Vocal for Local' initiative by showcasing local crafts, cuisine, and traditions.
XI. Himachal Pradesh
A. Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana
Summary: This scheme focuses on forest conservation, afforestation, and sustainable forest management practices.
Implications: Enhances forest cover and biodiversity, contributing to ecological balance and climate resilience. Promotes sustainable livelihoods for local communities dependent on forest resources. Mitigates soil erosion, improves water retention, and reduces the risk of natural disasters. Supports carbon sequestration efforts, contributing to India's climate change mitigation goals.
XII. Meghalaya
A. Film Tourism Policy
Summary: Aims to position the state as a major filming destination and foster creative media growth. Grants were distributed under the "Hello Meghalaya" initiative to support and incentivize local filmmakers. The policy seeks to attract film productions to showcase Meghalaya’s scenic landscapes, boosting tourism through on-site shoots. Structured to nurture local creators, filmmakers, digital media professionals, and artists, within the creative ecosystem of the state. Designed to generate economic growth via cultural promotion, supporting both livelihoods and regional identity.
Implications: Provides crucial funding and recognition to home-grown filmmakers, enhancing creative production. Likely to draw regional, national, and international shoots, generating tourism and auxiliary economic activity. Would help preserve Meghalaya’s regional identity by promoting local culture and culturally rooted filmmaking.
Conclusion :
The period from June 2, 2025, to June 14, 2025, has underscored the proactive stance of Indian State Governments and Union Territories in driving comprehensive development through a diverse array of policy and economic initiatives. From empowering women and modernizing agriculture to fostering technological advancements and safeguarding cultural heritage, these measures collectively reflect a concerted effort to enhance regional well-being and economic resilience.
The policies highlighted in this fortnight's review ranging from immediate actionable decisions like financial assistance hikes and infrastructure improvements to long-term strategic plans such as new industrial policies and environmental mitigation efforts - demonstrate a forward-looking approach to governance. These localized interventions are vital catalysts for sustainable growth, addressing specific regional needs while contributing to India's broader national objectives.
As we continue to monitor these dynamic developments, the focus remains on their effective implementation and long-term impact on the ground. The commitment to fostering inclusive growth, enhancing public services, and building robust economic ecosystems at the state level is clear. We look forward to bringing you more such crucial updates in our upcoming editions, continuing to shed light on the policy landscape that shapes our nation's progress.