November 2025

Highlights of this Issue

GDP grows at 8.2% in second quarter of 2025-26

Financial, real estate and professional services sector registered the highest growth in the second quarter of 2025-26 (10.2%), followed by public services (9.7%), and manufacturing (9.1%).

The four Labour Codes brought into effect

The Ministry of Labour and Employment issued notifications to bring the four Labour Codes into effect.  The Rules to implement these codes are expected to be notified in a few months.

Quality Control Orders suspended or withdrawn in multiple sectors

These changes have been brought across multiple sectors, covering electrical equipment, metals, steel, and key chemical inputs. 

The Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, 2025 notified

The Rules specify manner of adherence to data fiduciary obligations and exercise of rights by data principals.  They also specify details with regard to the constitution and functioning of the Data Protection Board.

Cabinet approves the Export Promotion Mission

The mission aims to support MSMEs to boost exports.   It will provide for affordable trade finance and building capacity.  The expected outlay under the scheme is Rs 25,060 crore over five years.  

Cabinet approves a scheme to promote manufacturing of rare earth magnets

The scheme aims to create 6,000 metric tons per annum of rare earth permanent magnets manufacturing capacity in India.  A total outlay of Rs 7,280 crore is estimated over a period of seven years.

Supreme Court delivers opinion on the presidential reference

The reference raised 14 questions, primarily related to the Court’s authority with regard to the assent to Bills by the President and Governors.  The Court opined that the judiciary cannot prescribe timelines for assent to Bills.

Supreme Court strikes down certain provisions of the Tribunal Reforms Act, 2021

These include provisions relating to eligibility for appointments of the Chairperson and members of Tribunals, manner of appointment, and the length of tenure.

Comments invited on the Draft Seeds Bill, 2025

The Bill seeks to replace the Seeds Act, 1966.  It mandates registration of seeds varieties and provides for regulation of trade in seeds.  It also mandates adoption of seeds traceability norms.

Standing Committees of Parliament have identified issues to examine

Topics include review of Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, affordability and accessibility of healthcare facilities, ensuring safety in Indian Rail operations, and review of self-reliance and modernisation of defence PSUs.
 

Parliament

Atri Prasad Rout (atri@prsindia.org)

Winter Session 2025 begins

The Winter Session of Parliament is scheduled to commence on December 1, 2025.  The session is scheduled to be held till December 19, 2025, with a total of 15 sittings.

Ten Bills are listed for introduction in this session.  These include: (i) the Securities Markets Code Bill, 2025, (ii) the Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025, (iii) the Higher Education Commission of India Bill, 2025, (iv) the Atomic Energy Bill, 2025, and (v) the National Highways (Amendment) Bill, 2025.  A Constitutional Amendment Bill to treat Chandigarh as other Union Territories without legislatures has also been listed for introduction.  Another Bill seeks to repeal about 120 obsolete laws.

Two pending Bills are listed for consideration and passing: (i) the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and (ii) the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions)) Bill, 2025.  These Bills were introduced during the Monsoon Session, and are being examined by Select Committees of Lok Sabha.  The first batch of supplementary demands for 2025-26 will also be presented and voted upon.

For more details on the legislative agenda for the Winter Session, please see here.

 

Macroeconomic Development

GDP grows at 8.2% in the second quarter of 2025-26

Shania Ali (shania@prsindia.org)

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) (at constant prices) grew at 8.2% in the second quarter (July-September) of 2025-26, over the corresponding period in 2024-25.[1]  In the second quarter of 2024-25, GDP had grown by 5.6%.  In the first quarter (April-June) of 2025-26, GDP is estimated to grow at 7.8%.

Figure 1: GDP growth at constant 2011-12 prices (in percentage, year-on-year)

 

Sources: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation; PRS.

GDP across economic sectors is measured in terms of Gross Value Added (GVA).  Financial, real estate and professional services sector registered the highest growth in the second quarter of 2025-26 (10.2%), followed by public services sector (9.7%), and manufacturing (9.1%).

Table 1: Growth in GVA across sectors in the second quarter of 2025-26, (in %, year-on-year)

Sector	Quarter 2
	2023-24	2024-25	2025-26
Agriculture	3.7%	4.1%	3.5%
Mining	4.1%	-0.4%	0.0%
Manufacturing	17.0%	2.2%	9.1%
Electricity	11.7%	3.0%	4.4%
Construction	14.6%	8.4%	7.2%
Trade	5.4%	6.1%	7.4%
Financial Services	8.3%	7.2%	10.2%
Public Services	8.9%	8.9%	9.7%
GVA	9.2%	5.8%	8.1%
GDP	9.3%	5.6%	8.2%

Sources:  Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation; PRS.

Quality Control Orders suspended or withdrawn in multiple sectors 

Vaishali Dhariwal (vaishali@prsindia.org)

Several ministries have withdrawn or suspended enforcement of Quality Control Orders (QCOs).  These orders require products to conform to specified standards to ensure quality and safety.  Changes affect sectors such as electricity, metals, steel, chemicals, and textiles.  Enforcement of QCOs for several electrical equipment has been deferred, except for those already implemented.[2]  The Ministry of Mines has withdrawn QCOs on products such as Aluminium and Aluminium Alloy, Copper, Nickel, Tin Ingot, Refined Nickel, Refined Zinc, and Primary Lead. [3]^{,[4],[5],[6],[7],[8],[9]}  The Ministry of Steel has suspended enforcement of 55 QCOs for specified steel products.[10]   The Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals has rescinded 14 QCOs for chemicals including Pyridine, Beta Picoline, Ethylene Glycol, and 100% Polyester spun grey and white yarn.[11] 

 

Labour and Employment

Vaishali Dhariwal (vaishali@prsindia.org)

The four Labour Codes brought into effect

The Ministry of Labour and Employment has issued notifications to bring four Labour Codes into effect: (i) Code on Wages, 2019, (ii) Industrial Relations Code, 2020, (iii) Code on Social Security, 2020, and (iv) Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020.[12]  These replace 29 labour laws including the Factories Act, 1948, the Minimum Wages Act, 1948, the Trade Unions Act, 1926, the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, and the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972.  For a PRS brief on the changes, see here.   As per news reports, the Labour Secretary has stated that the draft Rules under these four Codes will be re-released for public consultation.[13]   The implementation of the four Codes will begin once the Rules are finalised.13

A special-window enrolment scheme launched to regularise past non-compliance with EPF

The Ministry of Labour and Employment has launched the Employees’ Enrolment Scheme, 2025.[14]  The scheme provides a special window to extend Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) coverage to eligible workers who were not previously enrolled between July 2017 and October 2025.  It applies across sectors and aims to broaden social security coverage and regularise past non-compliance.  

Employers may voluntarily enrol eligible employees.  The employee’s EPF share will be waived for the period between July 2017 and October 2025.  However, the employers must remit their own share along with interest, administrative charges, and a fixed penalty of Rs 100.  Employers already under inquiry for past non-compliance will also be eligible, with damages limited to Rs 100.  No suo-moto action will be taken by EPFO for the period covered.  The scheme will be operational from November 1, 2025 to April 30, 2026.

Draft oil mines safety regulations released for public consultation

The Ministry of Labour and Employment has invited comments on the draft Regulations on occupational safety, health and working conditions in oil mines.[15]  The draft Regulations have been framed under the Occupational Safety, Health, and Working Conditions Code, 2020.[16]  Key features include: 

• Administrative requirements: The owner, agent or manager of the mines must give at least 30 days’ notice before abandonment, closure, discontinuance, or reopening.  Notice is also required for change in ownership.  The regulations specify qualifications for various appointments, including managers and competent persons.

• Duties of management: Owners must maintain a Safety Management Plan, covering hazard identification, risk assessment, control measures, and periodic review.  Contractors are made responsible for ensuring training, providing information about hazards, and maintaining equipment integrity.

• Risk management: Owners must prepare site-specific Emergency Response Plans for operational, industrial, and natural disasters.  Certain high-risk hazards such as fire, explosion, blowouts, and toxic gas require specific hazard management plans.  Hazardous operations such as fracturing, acidizing, tanker operations must be conducted under authorised supervision with mandatory pre-testing, exclusion zones, and specialised equipment.

• Environmental safeguards: The regulations prohibit the discharge of untreated fluids into water bodies and require flare systems to have continuous ignition.  Mines must install continuous hydrocarbon gas detection and alarm systems in process areas and compressor houses.

Comments are invited by January 10, 2026.

 

Information Technology

Ayush Stephen Toppo (ayush@prsindia.org)

The Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, 2025 notified 

The Ministry of Electronics and Information technology has notified the Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, 2025.[17]  These Rules have been issued under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023.[18]  The Rules prescribe different timelines for various provisions.  For instance, the Rules with respect to the Data Protection Board will be effective immediately.  Data processing-related obligations of data fiduciaries will be effective 18 months after publication.  Key features of the Rules include:    

• General data processing obligations: The Act requires data fiduciaries to issue a notice before processing personal data, enable withdrawal of consent, report data breaches, and erase data when it is no longer needed, unless required by law.  It also requires Significant Data Fiduciaries to undergo audits to check compliance with the Act.  A data fiduciary is an entity that collects and processes personal data. [19]  The Rules specify that the notice given by data fiduciaries to concerned individuals must itemise data collected, explain the purpose of collection, and the process for withdrawing consent.  Certain data fiduciaries (such as large e-commerce companies) must notify individuals before erasing their data.  The audits for Significant Data Fiduciaries must be conducted every 12 months.

• Processing of children’s data: Data fiduciaries must use appropriate measures to get verifiable consent from the child’s parent before data processing.  The Rules specify that the parent must be an adult and it may be verified using: (i) reliable identity details available with the fiduciary, (ii) voluntarily provided information, or (iii) a digital token issued from an authorised entity.   Healthcare professionals, educational institutions, and childcare providers are exempted from consent requirements for specific purposes. 

• Data Protection Board: The Act establishes a Board to perform certain functions such as registration of consent managers, conducting inquiries, and taking actions to protect individuals.  The Rules specify that members of the Board will be appointed on the recommendations of a search-cum-selection committee.  The Rules also specify terms and conditions of service of the members of the Board. 

 

Commerce and Industry 

Jahanvi Choudhary (jahanvi@prsindia.org)

Cabinet approves the Export Promotion Mission

The Union Cabinet has approved the Export Promotion Mission (EPM) announced in the 2025-26 Union Budget.[20]  The mission seeks to strengthen India’s export competitiveness, particularly for MSMEs, first-time exporters, and labour-intensive sectors.  Key sectors to prioritised under the Mission include: (i) textiles, (ii) leather, (iii) gems and jewellery, (iv) engineering goods, and (v) marine products.  It will involve a total estimated outlay of Rs 25,060 crore between 2025-26 and 2030-31.  It will have two sub-schemes:

• Niryat Protsahan:  It aims to improve access to affordable trade finance for MSMEs through a range of instruments such as: (i) subsidising interest, (ii) invoice financing, (iii) collateral guarantees, (iv) credit cards for e-commerce exporters, and (v) credit enhancement support for diversification into new markets.

• Niryat Disha:  It seeks to strengthen exporters’ market readiness through non-financial support such as: (i) assistance for international branding, (ii) export warehousing and logistics, (iii) export quality and compliance support, (iv) inland transport reimbursements, and (v) trade analytics and capacity building initiatives.

Cabinet approves scheme to promote manufacturing of rare earth magnets

The Union Cabinet approved a scheme to promote manufacturing of sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnets (REPM).[21]  The scheme seeks to create 6,000 metric tons per annum of REPM manufacturing capacity in India by supporting  integrated facilities that process rare earth oxides into finished REPM.  Some of the uses of REPM includes: (i) electric vehicles, (ii) renewable energy, (iii) electronics, (iv) aerospace, and (v) defence application.  The total outlay for this scheme is Rs 7,280 crore.   The scheme will run for seven years, including a two-year gestation period.  

 

Comments invited on draft guidelines for use of Geographical Indication logo

The Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade has invited comments on draft guidelines for use of Geographical Indication (GI) logo.[22]  A GI is an indication that includes registered name or any sign which identifies goods that come from a particular place and have special qualities or reputation because of that geographical location.  The guidelines are issued under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.[23]  The guidelines specify that GI name or logo may not be used when the goods  do not meet specified production standards, or are presented in a misleading manner.  The GI logo must also not be used on processed products made using GI goods as raw material.

Comments are invited until December 18, 2025.

India and Israel signs terms of reference for a free trade agreement

India and Israel signed terms of reference to initiate negotiations of Free Trade Agreement (FTA).[24] The terms of reference lay down the scope and procedure for the FTA.  According to the government, the proposed agreements are expected to: (i) expand market access for goods, (ii) facilitate investment, and (iii) promote trade in both goods and services.  

 

Finance

Shania Ali (shania@prsindia.org)

RBI announces relief measures for exporters 

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced measures to mitigate the impact on exports given the global headwinds. [25]  These measures shall come into force immediately.  They include:

• Extension of time limits: The Foreign Exchange Management (Export of Goods & Services) Regulations, 2015 have been amended for the following: (i) to extend the period for realisation and repatriation of export proceeds from nine months to 15 months from the date of export, and (ii) to increase the period for shipment of goods against advance payment from one year to three years from the date of receipt of advance payment or as per agreement, whichever is later.[26] 

• Easing the burden of debt servicing:  RBI has announced the Reserve Bank of India (Trade Relief Measures) Directions, 2025 for borrowers engaged in exports of certain commodities.[27]  These include fish, textile, precious or semi-precious jewellery, and leather-based goods.  Eligible borrowers must have an outstanding export credit facility as of August 31, 2025 and must not have defaulted on those facilities.  Such borrowers will be eligible for a moratorium on all debt payments due between September 1, 2025 and December 31, 2025.  Moratorium refers to a temporary pause in payments.  In case of working capital loan, lenders may increase the maximum amount the borrower can draw.  Working capital refers to the amount needed by a business to run its day-to-day operations.  For pre-shipment and post-shipment export related loans disbursed till March 31, 2026, lenders may give exporters up to 450 days to use and repay the loan.  Further, for credit availed till August 31, 2025, if the exporter is unable to ship the goods, lenders may allow the loan to be repaid from other sources such as selling goods domestically or by using proceeds from a different export order. 

 

Law and Justice

Jahanvi Choudhary (jahanvi@prsindia.org)

Supreme Court delivered opinion on the Presidential Reference regarding the Governor’s powers on assent to Bills

A five-judge bench of the Supreme Court delivered its opinion on the 16^th Presidential Reference made by the President of India in May 2025.[28]  The reference raised 14 questions, primarily related to the Court’s authority with regard to the assent to Bills by the President and Governors.  The reference followed a Supreme Court judgement in April 2025.  In this judgement, the Court had held that the Constitution does not permit the Governor to withhold assent indefinitely.[29]  The Court had prescribed certain timelines for Governors to follow with regard to giving assent or returning the Bill for re-consideration, or referring the Bill to the President.  It had declared certain Bills pending with the Governor in Tamil Nadu as deemed to be assented.

In response to the President’s reference, the Court opined that under Article 200 of the Constitution, the Governor has three options with regard to a Bill: (i) give assent, (ii) reserve the Bill for consideration of the President, and (iii) withhold assent and return the Bill to the Legislature with comments (for Bills other than Money Bills).  For discharge of functions under Article 200, the Governor is not bound by the advice of the Council of Ministers.  These functions are also not justiciable, which means they are not subjected to judicial reviews.  Only in circumstances of prolonged inaction, the Court may issue limited directions to the Governor to discharge his functions.  It also opined that in the absence of constitutionally prescribed time limits, it would not be appropriate for the Court to judicially prescribe timelines.  Further, it stated that the Constitution does not allow for the concept of ‘deemed assent’.   It stated that another constitutional authority cannot supplant the Governor’s legislative role under Article 200.    

Supreme Court struck down certain provisions of the Tribunal Reforms Act, 2021

The Supreme Court struck down certain provisions of the Tribunal Reforms Act, 2021.[30]  The Act specifies the manner of appointments and terms and conditions of service of members of the Tribunals.  The Court observed that these provisions were re-enacted from the Tribunal Reforms (Rationalisation and Conditions of Service) Ordinance, 2021, and were previously struck down in July 2021.  These relate to eligibility for appointments, process of selection and appointment, and the length of tenure.  The Court held these provisions to be undermining judicial independence and separation of powers.  

It also directed the central government to establish a National Tribunals Commission within four months as per the principles laid down by the Court.  These include independence from executive control, professional expertise, transparent processes, and oversight mechanism to reinforce public confidence.

 

Environment

Vaishali Dhariwal (vaishali@prsindia.org)

Supreme Court upheld validity of retrospective Environmental Clearances

Hearing a review petition on an earlier ruling, the Supreme Court held that retrospective Environmental Clearance (EC) can be granted in exceptional circumstances.[31]  Further, it held that the Environment Protection Act, 1986 does not prohibit it in exceptional cases.  These clearances are issued under the Environment Protection Act, 1986, and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006.[32]^,[33]  EIA provides that certain projects or activities will require prior EC from the concerned regulatory authorities at the central, state, or district level.  

In March 2017, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change issued a notification to provide retrospective clearance for projects or activities that had started work on site, expanded the production beyond the limit of the EC, or changed production mix without obtaining EC.  In May 2025, the Supreme Court ruled that the concept of granting retrospective EC under the 2017 notification was illegal.[34]  The Court had held that the grant of retrospective EC is against the environmental laws and the EIA Notification.  

The Supreme Court has now recalled this ruling and held the 2017 notification to be valid.  It further clarified that 2017 notification can be applied only for violations existing as on March 14, 2017. 

 

Agriculture

Atri Prasad Rout (atri@prsindia.org)

Comments invited on the Draft Seeds Bill 2025

The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare invited comments on the Draft Seeds Bill, 2025.^[35]  The Bill intends to replace the Seeds Act, 1966.^[36],[37]  It aims to curb the sale of spurious and poor-quality seeds, liberalise imports, protect farmers' rights, and promote ease of doing business.  Key features include:

• Central Seed Committee: The central government will constitute a Central Seed Committee (CSC).   The CSC will consist of a chairperson and 27 members.  The CSC will advise the central and state governments on standards for seed registration, certification, and testing.  The central government, on CSC’s recommendation, will notify the minimum limits of seed germination, genetic purity, health, and the Indian Minimum Seed Certification Standards.

• Registration of seed varieties: Registration will be mandatory for sale of any seed of any variety, with exception of farmers’ varieties and those meant for export.  The CSC will constitute a registration sub-committee.   This sub-committee will make recommendations to CSC on registration of seed varieties.  State Seed Committees will advise the registration sub-committee on registration of state seed varieties.  The central government will appoint an official from the Ministry of Agriculture as the Registrar, who will manage the National Register on Seed Varieties.   Varieties notified under the 1966 Act will be deemed registered.  The CSC will have the power to suspend or revoke registration.  Decisions of the CSC and orders of the Registration Sub-committee can be appealed at the CSC.

• Regulation of seed trade: Seed producers, seed processing units, seed dealers, distributors, and plant nurseries must register with the state government.  All participants in the seed trade will adopt seed traceability norms.   All seed containers will have necessary details and a QR Code generated through a Centralised Seed Traceability Portal.   The central government will establish a Central Accreditation System for companies operating in multiple states.  These accredited companies will be deemed to be registered across states.  The central government will be empowered to regulate the sale price of seeds in situations of scarcity and abnormal price rise.

Comments are invited until December 11, 2025.

 

Steel

Vaishali Dhariwal (vaishali@prsindia.org)

The third round of PLI scheme for speciality steel launched

The Ministry of Steel has launched the third round of the Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Speciality Steel.[38]  Specialty Steel is a finished steel that is enhanced through processes like coating, plating, or heat treatment.[39]  It is used in sectors that require specialised properties, such as defence, space, and power.  The scheme aims to boost domestic production and reduce import dependence.  The third round of the scheme has a total estimated outlay of Rs 6,322 crore and targets an additional 26 million tonnes of speciality steel capacity.

The scheme will cover 22 product sub-categories, including strategic steel grades and coated or wire products.  Only companies registered in India and engaged in end-to-end manufacturing of the products are eligible.  Incentives will range from 4% to 15% of incremental sales, depending on the product category.  Benefits will be available for up to five years, starting 2025-26. 

 

Defence

Shania Ali (shania@prsindia.org) 

DRDO and DGA sign agreement for cooperation

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Directorate General of Armaments (DGA), France signed an agreement for further collaboration in defence research and development.[40]  The agreement provides a formal framework for joint research and training programmes, testing activities, and exchange of information to enhance research and development in defence.  Further, transfer of equipment, know-how and technologies will be available to both the countries in areas such as aeronautical platforms, unmanned vehicles, cyber security, and advanced sensors.

 

Power 

Ayush Stephen Toppo (ayush@prsindia.org)

Policy regarding co-firing of biomass in coal-based plants 

The Ministry of Power has released a revised policy regarding use of biomass pellets in coals based thermal plants for co-firing.[41]  Co-firing is the simultaneous combustion of two or more different fuels in the same power plant to produce energy.  Key features of the policy include:  

• Inclusion of MSW-based torrefied charcoal:  Earlier policies mandated co-firing of biomass pellets made primarily from agro-residue.[42]^,[43]  The new policy explicitly adds torrefied charcoal produced from municipal solid waste (MSW) as an eligible fuel for co-firing in coal-based thermal power plants.   Torrefied charcoal is produced by heating a biomass such as MSW in low-oxygen environment. 

• Differentiated targets for NCR plants: The new policy introduces region-specific mandates from financial year 2025-26.  Plants in the National Capital Region (NCR) must use a 5% blend of biomass pellets plus an additional 2% blend of biomass pellets and/or MSW-based torrefied charcoal (by weight).  Plants outside NCR must co-fire at least 5% biomass pellets and/or MSW-based torrefied charcoal.

• Use of crop residue: For plants in NCR and adjoining areas, at least 50% of the raw material used in biomass pellets must now be rice paddy or crop residue sourced from the NCR and adjoining districts.  This sourcing requirement was not present in earlier policies.  

 

Parliament has constituted some of its Departmentally Related Standing Committees.  The subjects identified for examination for 2025-26 by the Committees are given below.

Education, Women, Children, Youth and Sports
Ministry of Education
Department of School Education and Literacy
1	Review of Samagra Shiksha and PM POSHAN Scheme
2	Review of the need for and feasibility of expanding Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs)
3	Review of PM Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI)
4	Review of the implementation of the National Education Policy, 2020, in school education
5	Review of grants given to schools by the Union Government and the utilisation of such rants by schools
6	Review of efforts to support continuous assessment, at the school level and at the board-level, in schooling
7	Review of guidelines followed for recognition of private schools by government authorities in each state
8	Review of steps taken and schemes in implementation for the education of children with disabilities (CwD)
9	Review of efforts to universalize Early Childhood Care and Education
10	Review of current practices and policies regarding school closures
11	Review of current practices and policies to popularize library access for school students and literate adults
12	Review and reforms required in the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009
13	Review of the functioning and performance of National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT)
14	Review of Department’s efforts to promote education of linguistic and religious minorities
Department of Higher Education
1	Review of the proliferation of coaching centres to support students in competitive examinations, social issues arising from it, and existing legislation on the matter
2	Integration of vocational education in higher education curricula.
3	Review of efforts to support mental health for students in higher education
4	Review the progress of the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020
5	Review of Department’s efforts to promote Indian languages in higher education and research
6	Review of Department’s efforts to promote Gandhian thought and values in higher education
7	Review of Department’s efforts to promote higher education among students from religious minorities
8	Review of Department’s efforts to create a Higher Education Council of India (HECI)
9	Review of the functioning of Central Government funded and supported institutions of higher education
10	Review of implementation of reservations for SC/ST/OBC/EWS communities in student and faculty positions in Central Government funded and supported institutions of higher education
11	Review of HEFA and UGC’s role in supporting institutions of higher education financially
12	Review of professional development and placement opportunities at Central Government funded and supported institutions of higher Education
13	Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and leverage of emerging technology on education and students
14	Study of Indological academic traditions and its impact on current education system.
Ministry of Women and Child Development
1	Review of the implementation of Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao
2	Review of Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 Scheme
3	Review of PM CARES schemes for children
4	Review of efforts to prevent and address child abuse
5	Review of Mission Shakti and Mission Vatsalya
6	Review of functioning and performance of autonomous bodies of the Ministry of Women and Child Development
7	Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013: Implementation in the Public and Private Sector, including informal jobs
8	Review of efforts to support women and children’s mental health and well-being
9	Review of Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi and other schemes to universalize Early Childhood Care and Education
Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
Department of Youth Affairs
1	Department of Youth Affairs
2	Review of National Youth Policy, 2021: Status and vision
3	Review of trends in drug and alcohol use among youth and measures to stop proliferation
4	Review of National Service Scheme and its functioning and financing
5	Review of Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan and its functioning
6	Review of efforts to improve technology and internet access for youth
7	Review of National programme for youth and adolescent development
8	Review of training and skill development for jobs
9	Review of performance and functioning of the Rajiv Gandhi National Institute of Youth Development (RGNIYD)

 

Department of Sports
1	Review of mechanism to ensure safety and security of women in sports
2	Review of management and governance in National Sports Federations (NSFs)
3	Review of efforts for the promotion of Rural and Indigenous Sports and Rural Sports Development
4	Review of efforts to encourage private companies to invest in development of sports infrastructure and facilities, including through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
5	Evaluation of current mechanisms to add sports as a regular part of school learning
6	Review of efforts to host the Commonwealth Games 2030 and the Olympics Games 2036 in India
Health and Family Welfare
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
1	Affordability and Accessibility of Healthcare Facilities in Public and Private Sector
2	Working of AIIMS, New Delhi and Problems Faced by patients in availing healthcare & treatment
3	Implementation of Ayushman Bharat with focus on geriatric care and Ayushman Arogya Mandir
4	A Study of Vector-borne Diseases in the North-East India
5	Management of Human Organs & Tissues Transplantation and related Legislative framework
6	Prevalence of Chronic Kidney Disease in India- Prevention, Diagnosis, Treatment and Management
7	Shortage of teaching faculty in allied education: Challenges in Medical education
8	Latest interventions in Affordable Cancer Care with proven outcomes
9	Global Health Research and Foreign collaboration in diagnosis treatment and palliative care in major diseases
10	Accessibility and Affordability of Medical Education facilities in India- Foreign collaboration and Global Comparative Standard & Perspective
11	Organizational structure, Mandate and Functional proficiency of Regulatory Institutions under Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
Ministry of Ayush
1	Prevention, Diagnosis & Treatment and Management of Life style diseases through the Ayush System
2	Propagation and Popularization of Treatment under AYUSH
Commerce
Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Department of Commerce
1	Evaluation of India - US Trade Relations
2	Functioning of MPEDA & APEDA
3	Evaluation of the Policy, Regulatory, Operational Framework, and Impact of Special Economic Zones (SEZs)
4	Comprehensive Review of Foreign Trade Agreements & Bilateral Agreements
5	Issue of Compliance of Law of the Land in Government Procurement through e-market place/GeM Portal
6	Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade
7	Doing Business in India: The Way Forward
8	Issues and Challenges of India’s FDI Policy
9	Future outlook and Growth opportunities in Cement Industry
10	Issue of licenses for establishment of industries for production of civil aircraft
11	Evaluation of the IIFT, NID and Footwear Design and Development Institute
12	Implementation of PM Gati Shakti: Masterplan for multimodal connectivity
Railways
Ministry of Railways
1	Ensuring safety in Indian Rail operations
2	Optimum utilisation of Railway land
3	Status and financing of various expansion and upgradation related projects of Indian Railways
4	Role of Railway PSUs in growth and expansion of Indian Railways
5	Improvement of public facilities at Railway Stations
6	Human resource management in Indian Railways
7	Upgradation of tracks and signalling in Indian Railways
8	Increasing freight related earnings of Indian Railways and development of Dedicated Freight Corridors
9	Passenger Reservation System in Indian Railways
10	Evaluation of on-board services in Indian Railways
11	Expansion of Rail Network in North East and Union Territories
12	Performance of Production Units and Railway Workshops of Indian Railways
13	Promotion of Railway based tourism
14	High Speed Rail network in India
15	Role of Indian Railways in development of multi-modal logistic parks and their integration with road and port net
16	Making Indian Railways self-reliant through innovation and promotion of indigenous sources
17	Elimination of Manned Level Crossings on Indian Rail Network
18	Diversification of Freight Basket of Indian Railways
19	Upgradation and Modernisation of Indian Railways' Rolling Stock
20	Sub-urban and Metro Train Services of Indian Railways.
21	PPP initiatives in Indian Railways for infrastructure augmentation
22	Energy efficiency in Indian railways
Defence
Ministry of Defence
1	Review of Sainik Schools, Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) and Rashtriya Military Schools
2	Review of working of Border Roads Organization (BRO) in creating infrastructure in strategic locations and border areas
3	A review of resettlement policies, healthcare facilities and avenues for Ex- Servicemen (ESM)
4	Review of Self-reliance and Modernization of Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs)
5	Review of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives by DPSUs and its utilization for welfare of Defence personnel/Ex- Servicemen (ESM)/Next of Kin (NoK)
6	Role of Indian Air Force in ensuring defence of the Country
7	Role of Indian Army in ensuring defence of the Country
8	Role of Indian Navy in ensuring Maritime Security of the Country
9	Review of working of Indian Coast Guard in ensuring Coastal Security in the Country
10	Role of Armed Forces Medical Services in providing adequate healthcare facilities to the Armed Forces personnel including personnel  deployed in difficult and far-flung border areas
11	Assessment of Indigenisation of Defence Production both by way of Public and Private Sector including major Research Initiatives towards achieving `Atmanirbharta’
12	Status of upgradation of various programmes and projects of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
13	Consolidation of defence lands by Defence Estates Organisation and working of Cantonment Boards
14	Assessment of Next of Kin (NoK) Policy in the Armed Forces
15	Assessment of readiness for Humanitarian Assistance and rescue operations by Armed Forces personnel
16	Grievance Redressal Mechanism in Defence Services
17	Review and assessment of training of Armed Forces personnel
18	Induction of women in combat roles in Armed Forces
Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Food Processing
Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (DA&FW)
1	Implementation of PM-KISAN and Crop Insurance: Evaluation of Direct Benefit Transfer Efficiency, Coverage Gaps and Grievance Redressal
2	Digitization of Agriculture: Impact of Digital Agriculture Mission, Remote Sensing, AI and IOT in Crop Planning
3	Promotion of Natural and Regenerative Farming: Assessing Outcomes of Schemes Promoting Organic/Natural Farming
4	Revisiting APMC and E-NAM Integration: Status and Gaps in Agricultural Marketing Reforms
5	Soil Health and Input Subsidies: Rationalization of Fertilizer Subsidies and Soil Nutrient Balance
6	Food Security and Nutrition – Linkages Between Production, Processing and Nutritional Outcomes
7	AI and Data Governance in Agriculture- Ensuring Farmer Data Protection and Transparency in Digital Platforms
8	Agri-Credit and Indebtedness: Effectiveness of KCC (Kisan Credit Card) and Institutional Credit Access for Small/Marginal Farmers
9	Agriculture Labour Welfare: Inclusion of Agriculture Labourers in Welfare Schemes; Social Security, Health and Insurance Coverage
10	Performance Review of Per Drop More Crop (PDMC), a component of Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY) - Prospects & Challenges
11	Unlocking the Potential of India’s Agri-Value Chains
12	Performance Review of National Beekeeping & Honey Mission
13	Bio Fuelling the Future: “Role of Farmers in Shaping the Renewable Energy Transition in the Country
14	Promotion of Farm Mechanisation in the Country.
15	Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture and Allied Sector.
16	Production and Availability of Certified Seeds in the Country
17	Production and Availability of Oil Seeds and Pulses in the Country
18	National Mission on Agricultural Extension and Technology
19	Incentivization for Mechanization and Adoption of Modern Techniques in Agriculture Sector
20	Effect of Use of Chemical Fertilizers and Pesticides on Environment and Human Health – Ways to Rationalize their Usage
21	Role of Farmers and Government in Management of Crop Residues through Scientific and Technological Methods
22	Status of Implementation of the Recommendations of Swaminathan Committee Report
23	Policies and Projects for Doubling of Income of Farmers
24	Impact Report of on-going Agricultural Subsidies
25	Policies and Projects for Water Resources (including Groundwater), Irrigation Systems, Rainfed, Watershed Programs and Drainage Management
26	Policy Formulation for Pricing of Agriculture Produce
27	Policies for Diversification of Crops
28	Quality Control of Agriculture Inputs
29	Procurement of Crops at Minimum Support Price – A Review
30	Rationalization of GST on Agricultural Machine Tools and Other Equipments for Small & Marginal Farmers
31	Enhancing Productivity of Staple Crops – Government Initiatives & Measures
32	Identification of Socio – Economic & Environmental Reasons Leading to Farmers’ Suicide and Ways & Means to Curb Suicides
33	Extension of Benefits of MNREGA Schemes to Small & Marginal Farmers
34	Development & Augmentation of Agricultural Produce Marketing System
35	Promotion of Floriculture in the Country – Prospects and Challenges
36	Provision of Minimum Wage to Farm Labourers.
37	Cultivation of Khas-Khas (Poppy Seeds) – Prospects and Challenges
38	Post-Harvest Standardization of Moisture Management and Loss of Moisture during Storage
39	Compensation to Farmers including Tenant Farmers for Losses due to Natural Calamities and other Accidental Causes (Not just Fasal Bima Yojana).
40	Policies and Provision to benefit Small and Marginal Farmers and SC/ST Farmers
41	Decreasing Fertile Land due to Indiscriminate Acquisition of Farm Land for Urbanization, Industrialization & Infrastructure Development such as National Highways- A Review
Department of Agricultural Research and Education
1	Genome Editing: Prospects and Challenges in the Country
2	Contribution of ICAR in Agricultural Research for Tribal and Hilly Regions
3	Research and Development in Post-Harvest Management
4	Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Port Blair- A Performance Review
5	Role and Performance Appraisal of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in the Country
6	Research Initiatives and Projects to deal with Pollution in Agriculture and Nitrogen Inefficiency in the Soil
7	Research for Developing Water Efficient Variety of Seeds to Save Ground Water
8	A Performance Review of all Government funded Agricultural Research Institutes, Universities and ICAR
9	Policies on Usage of Genetically Modified, Engineered, Artificial and Terminator Seeds – A Review
Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying
Department of Fisheries
1	Implementation of Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana: Progress and Regional Distribution of Funds
2	Fishermen Welfare Schemes: Insurance, Housing and Social Security Coverage
3	Sustainable Marine Fisheries: Conservation of Coastal Ecosystems, Development and Regulation of Deep-sea Fishing
4	Infrastructure and Post-Harvest Management in Fisheries Sector – Enhancing Traceability, Value Addition and Skill Development
5	Development of Inland Aquaculture and Reservoir Fisheries: Promotion of Freshwater Aquaculture and Cluster-based Development
6	Smart and Integrated Fishing Harbours – Progress and Assessment of Infrastructure Gaps and their Socio- Economic Impact on Fishermen Livelihoods
7	Effective Implementation of Policies and Programmes for benefit of Marginal Communities including SC/ST in Fisheries Sector
8	Measures to Prevent Illegal Fishing
9	Role of National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) in Training and Extension Facilities to Fishermen under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana
10	Promotion and Development of Sea Weed Cultivation
Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying
1	Genetic Improvement of Indigenous Breeds: Assessment of Rashtriya Gokul Mission Outcomes
2	Fodder and Feed Security: Ensuring Year-Round Feed Availability and Promoting Silage Technology
3	Doubling Dairy Farmer Income: Evaluating Cooperative vs. Private Models; Pricing of Milk vis- a-vis Input Costs
4	Milk Processing and Cold Chain Infrastructure: Review of Gaps and Regional Imbalances in Processing Capacity
5	Export Potential of Indian Dairy: Policy Support for Quality, Certification and Branding of Indian Dairy Products
6	National Animal Disease Control Program: Effectiveness in Controlling FMD, Brucellosis and Other Prevalent Diseases in Bovine Animals along with the need for Veterinary Infrastructure
7	Effective Implementation of Policies and Programmes for benefit of Marginal Communities including SC/ST in Animal Husbandry and Dairying Sector
8	Evaluation of Livestock Insurance Schemes
9	National Livestock Mission – An Appraisal
10	Scope for Nutrition and Livelihood in the Dairy Sector - An Analysis
11	Policies and Projects for Growth of Livestock – An Evaluation
12	Growth in the Production of Dairy Sector – Review of various Schemes
13	Evaluation of Quality Control in Dairy Product
Ministry of Food Processing Industries
1	Promoting Millet, Fruit and Vegetable Processing: Supporting India’s G20 and International Year of Millets (IYM) legacies through Product Diversification
2	Scope for Development of Food Processing Industries in India with Special Reference to Infrastructure, Diversification and Ease of Doing Business
3	Promoting Innovation, Research and Ensuring Quality Assurance in Food Processing Sector- Role of FSSAI
4	Promotion of Cooperatives and Linking of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and Cooperatives with Food Processing Industries
5	Implementation of PMFME and Mega Food Parks: Evaluation of Effectiveness, Bottlenecks and Impact on Employment
6	Effective Implementation of Policies and Programmes for benefit of Marginal Communities including SC/ST in Food Processing Sector
7	Research and Development in the Food Processing Sector
Ministry of Cooperation
1	Multistate Cooperative Societies: Transparency, Modernization and Digitization of Operations
2	Cooperatives in Agri-marketing and Credit: Role of PACS and District Cooperatives in Linking with eNAM and Digital Banking
3	Cooperative Federalism in Agriculture: Coordination between Centre-State Cooperative Institutions
4	Women and youth cooperatives: Promoting Inclusive Participation in Agricultural Cooperatives
5	Performance Review of Major Schemes and Programmes for Development of Cooperative Societies in the Country
6	National Cooperative Database: Assessing Progress, Utility and Integration with other Government Platforms
7	Promotion of Cooperative Societies led by Marginal Communities including SC/ST
8	Role of National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) in Strengthening of Cooperative Sugar Mills (CSMs)
9	Evaluation of Democratic Practices and Reducing Administrative Interferences in the Cooperatives of the Country
10	Role of Cooperative Societies in Enhancing Income of the Farmers and Fishermen– A Review