Daily Current Affairs : 23-August-2023
In a bid to catalyze development in the North Eastern Region (NER) of India, the government introduced the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for the North East Region (PM-DevINE). This ambitious initiative was unveiled in the Union Budget of 2022-23 and received approval from the Cabinet for implementation over the next four years, from 2022-23 to 2025-26. Let’s delve into the details of PM-DevINE, its objectives, and the critical role played by the Empowered Inter-Ministerial Committee (EIMC) in its execution.
Understanding PM-DevINE
PM-DevINE stands as a Central Sector Scheme, falling under the purview of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER). The scheme comes with a substantial financial outlay of Rs. 6,600 crore, emphasizing the government’s commitment to bridging development gaps in this ecologically diverse and culturally rich region.
Objectives of PM-DevINE
The PM-DevINE initiative has four primary objectives, shaping its overarching mission:
- Infrastructure Development: PM-DevINE aspires to fund infrastructure projects holistically, in line with the spirit of PM Gati Shakti, ensuring efficient connectivity and accessibility within the NER.
- Social Empowerment: The scheme places a strong emphasis on social development projects that are responsive to the actual needs of the region’s inhabitants. It strives to uplift marginalized communities and improve their quality of life.
- Youth and Women Empowerment: Recognizing the potential of the youth and women, PM-DevINE seeks to create livelihood opportunities that empower these segments of the population, boosting economic growth and social equity.
- Filling Development Gaps: Across various sectors, PM-DevINE aims to address the longstanding developmental disparities within the NER, ensuring that no region is left behind.
Role of the Empowered Inter-Ministerial Committee (EIMC)
The Empowered Inter-Ministerial Committee plays a pivotal role in ensuring the effective implementation of PM-DevINE. It carries out several critical functions:
1. Project Assessment and Selection
- The EIMC evaluates initial project proposals on the basis of quality, viability, and their potential socio-economic impact.
- It collaborates closely with representatives from relevant Indian Government Ministries/Departments and State Governments to make informed recommendations on project selection.
2. Monitoring and Evaluation
- The committee proposes robust monitoring and evaluation methods, which may include on-site inspections conducted by third-party agencies. This ensures transparency and accountability in project execution.
3. Sustainable Operation and Maintenance
- Recognizing the need for project sustainability, the EIMC devises mechanisms for the operation and maintenance of PM-DevINE projects. This long-term perspective ensures that the benefits continue to reach the intended beneficiaries even after project completion.
Important Points:
PM-DevINE Initiative:
- Introduced in the Union Budget 2022-23 to address development gaps in the North Eastern Region (NER).
- Approved for implementation from 2022-23 to 2025-26.
- Central Sector Scheme implemented by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER).
- Rs. 6,600 crore financial outlay for the four-year period.
- Four primary objectives:
- Infrastructure development in line with PM Gati Shakti.
- Social development projects tailored to the region’s needs.
- Empowerment of youth and women through livelihood activities.
- Bridging development gaps across various sectors in NER.
Empowered Inter-Ministerial Committee (EIMC):
- Responsible for ensuring the effective execution of PM-DevINE.
- Key functions:
- Assessment and selection of project proposals based on quality, viability, and socio-economic impact.
- Collaboration with relevant government bodies and state governments.
- Monitoring and evaluation through methods like on-site inspections.
- Development of mechanisms for the sustainable operation and maintenance of projects.
Why In News
The revised guidelines for the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for the North East Region (PM-DevINE) were released to enhance the program’s effectiveness and ensure more targeted development in the region. These updated directives aim to foster sustainable growth and prosperity in the North East, aligning with the government’s commitment to uplift the region’s socio-economic landscape.
MCQs about PM-DevINE and the EIMC
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Who is responsible for implementing the PM-DevINE initiative?
A. Ministry of Finance
B. Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER)
C. Ministry of Rural Development
D. Ministry of External Affairs
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What is the primary focus of the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for the North East Region (PM-DevINE)?
A. To increase government revenue in the North Eastern Region (NER).
B. To fund infrastructure projects exclusively.
C. To address development gaps and uplift marginalized communities in NER.
D. To promote tourism in the North Eastern Region.
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What role does the Empowered Inter-Ministerial Committee (EIMC) play in PM-DevINE?
A. It oversees the implementation of state-level projects.
B. It manages the budget allocation for PM-DevINE.
C. It evaluates project proposals, monitors progress, and ensures sustainability.
D. It provides legal counsel for the initiative.
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