Author: Naresh Saini

The PM Vishwakarma Yojana is a new initiative by the Indian government aimed at empowering artisans and craftsmen across the country. Offering loans without the need for collateral, this scheme is designed to help skilled workers expand their businesses and improve their income. With over 2.5 crore applicants already registered, this scheme has generated considerable interest. Here’s a comprehensive look at the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, its benefits, eligibility requirements, and how artisans can apply to get financial support. What is PM Vishwakarma Yojana? The PM Vishwakarma Yojana is a government-backed scheme introduced to provide financial support to artisans and skilled…

In recent times, unauthorized use of PAN (Permanent Account Number) cards by financial technology and consumer tech firms has raised serious concerns about data privacy. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has now acted to curb this issue, aiming to secure citizens’ financial and personal data. This decision comes in line with India’s new data privacy laws under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDP Act), ensuring that sensitive information is handled securely. Why PAN Cards Are Targeted for Misuse The PAN card, which initially served as an identity and tax identification tool, has now evolved into a primary…

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has introduced a cost-effective travel insurance plan that offers a cover of up to Rs 10 lakh for a premium of just 45 paise per passenger. This low-cost insurance is part of IRCTC’s initiative to provide increased safety and support to train travelers in case of unforeseen incidents. However, it is available exclusively to Indian citizens booking tickets online via IRCTC’s e-ticket platform. Who Can Avail of This Insurance? This insurance plan is strictly for Indian nationals who book their train tickets through IRCTC’s e-ticketing platform. Here’s who can benefit and who…

The National Pension System (NPS) is one of the most effective ways to save for retirement in India, offering tax benefits and flexible investment options. However, there’s a powerful strategy to significantly increase your retirement savings that many NPS investors overlook—a small, consistent annual increase in your investment amount, known as a “top-up.” This simple adjustment of just a 5% increase each year can yield huge rewards by the time you retire. If you plan to rely on NPS for financial security after retirement, learning about this top-up strategy can make a big difference in your savings. Here’s how topping…

With over 97,000 employees and retirees eligible for higher pensions under the Employee Pension Scheme (EPS) 1995, thousands of EPFO members are waiting for updates on their pension applications. This is part of a push towards pension on higher wages, benefiting those who qualify as per the Supreme Court’s directive from November 2022. If you’re one of the members who opted for higher EPS pension, here’s a straightforward guide on how you can track the status of your application using EPFO’s online portal. What Is the Higher Pension Option in EPS? When members opt for a higher EPS pension, they…

With cyber scams on the rise in Jharkhand, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has issued a public alert, warning citizens about the latest methods cybercriminals are using to target unsuspecting individuals. Jharkhand has seen an increase in cyber fraud, with criminals evolving their techniques beyond traditional OTP and bank scams. Now, scams range from honey traps and digital arrest threats to scams promising quick riches. This shift has pushed the CID to issue preventive advice, helping residents identify red flags and avoid falling victim to fraud. The CID, in collaboration with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Center (I4C), has identified…

In India, ration cards are primarily meant for low-income families in need of government assistance under the National Food Security Act. Through these cards, the government provides subsidized food items to support those with limited income. However, if you own certain assets or meet specific income criteria, you may be required to surrender your ration card to avoid penalties. Here’s what you need to know about the eligibility rules and why it’s important to follow them. Who Can and Cannot Hold a Ration Card? Ration cards aim to support economically weaker sections, and the government has clear rules regarding who…

Starting 1 November, several significant changes in financial services, utilities, and the stock market come into effect, impacting mutual funds, SBI credit card holders, and commercial gas prices. These developments aim to tighten regulatory standards and simplify processes for consumers and businesses alike. Here’s a breakdown of the new rules and changes that are relevant for consumers and investors in November 2024: Mutual Funds Now Under Insider Trading Regulation From 1 November, all mutual fund transactions are now regulated under the Securities and Exchange Board of India’s (SEBI) Insider Trading rules. SEBI’s amendment mandates that any transactions over Rs 15…

The Ayushman Bharat Yojana, a flagship scheme by the central government aimed at providing health insurance to India’s economically weaker sections, has been adopted by most states. However, two significant states – Delhi and West Bengal – have chosen not to implement the scheme, citing various reasons. Both the Delhi government, led by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and the West Bengal government under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee argue that they have their effective healthcare solutions in place, making Ayushman Bharat unnecessary in their regions. This choice has sparked debate, especially with the central government alleging that political interests may…

Buying gold on Dhanteras is considered auspicious, and many people invest in gold jewelry, coins, and bars during this festival. This tradition also serves as a way to secure wealth, as gold prices have been on the rise. If we compare, last year’s Dhanteras price for 10 grams of gold was ₹60,000, which has now surged to ₹79,500. Whether you’re buying gold for sentimental reasons or as an investment, it is essential to check its purity and quality. Here’s a simple guide on how to make the right choice when buying gold this festive season. Check the Purity of Gold…