March 19, 2026 : The Union Cabinet has approved the Small Hydro Power Development Scheme for the period 2026–27 to 2030–31, with an outlay exceeding ₹2,584 crore. The scheme aims to add around 1,500 MW of small hydro capacity and is expected to attract investments worth approximately ₹15,000 crore. It is designed to boost clean energy generation, particularly in remote and rural areas, while also generating substantial employment.

Addressing the media in New Delhi, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that the scheme will also encourage states to prepare detailed project reports for nearly 200 future projects, thereby building a strong pipeline in the small hydro sector.

In addition, the Cabinet approved the Bharat Audyogik Vikas Yojana (BHAVYA), which envisions the development of 100 plug-and-play industrial parks with a financial allocation of ₹33,660 crore to strengthen industrial infrastructure.

To support farmers, the Cabinet sanctioned over ₹1,718 crore as MSP-related funding to the Cotton Corporation of India for the 2023–24 cotton season, reinforcing efforts toward farmer welfare and self-reliance.

Further, approval was granted for the construction of a 101 km long four-lane access-controlled National Highway (NH-927) connecting Barabanki to Bahraich in Uttar Pradesh, at a cost exceeding ₹6,969 crore.