Context:
Recently, Revamped Pharmaceuticals Technology Upgradation Assistance Scheme (RPTUAS) was announced by Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers
Key Features of the Revised Scheme:
- Broadened eligibility criteria –
- Eligibility expanded beyond MSMEs to include any pharmaceutical manufacturing unit with a turnover of less than 500 crores that requires technology and quality upgradation
- Preference remains for MSMEs – Supporting smaller players in achieving high-quality manufacturing standards.
- Introduced flexible Financing Options – Emphasizing subsidies on reimbursement basis, over traditional credit-linked approach
- Comprehensive Support for Compliance with New Standards – In alignment with revised Schedule-M and WHO-GMP standards, scheme supports a broader range of technological upgrades.
- Broadened eligible activities –
- HVAC systems, water and steam utilities, testing laboratories, stability chambers, clean room facilities, effluent treatment, waste management etc.
- Dynamic Incentive Structure – Pharmaceutical units with the following average turnover for the last 3 years will be eligible for incentive subject to a maximum of Rs. 1.00 crore per unit.
| Turnover for the last 3 years | Incentives |
| Less than Rs 50 crore | 20% of investment under eligible activities |
| Between Rs 50 crore to less than Rs 250 crore | 15% of investment under eligible activities |
| Between Rs 250 crore to less than Rs 500 crore | 10% of investment under eligible activities |
- State Government Scheme Integration – Enables units to benefit from additional top-up assistance
- Aims to maximize support for the pharmaceutical industry in their technology upgradation efforts
- Enhanced Verification Mechanism – Ensures transparency, accountability and the efficient allocation of resources
Pharmaceuticals Technology Upgradation Assistance Scheme (PTUAS):
- A component of Strengthening of Pharmaceutical Industry (SPI) Scheme
- SPI Scheme – Aims to strengthen the existing infrastructure facilities to make India a global leader in the Pharma Sector
- Under Department of Pharmaceuticals of Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers
- Ministry – Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers
Source: PIB
Previous Year Question
With reference to the provisions made under the National Food Security Act, 2013, consider the following statements:
1. The families coming under the category of ‘below poverty line (BPL)’ only are eligible to receive subsidised food grains.
2. The eldest woman in a household, of age 18 years or above, shall be the head of the household for the purpose of issuance of a ration card.
3. Pregnant women and lactating mothers are entitled to a ‘take-home ration’ of 1600 calories per day during pregnancy and for six months thereafter.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2018 Prelims]
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 3 only
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
Statement 1 is not correct:
The Act provides for coverage of up to 75% of the rural population and up to 50% of the urban population.
Statement 3 is not correct:
Pregnant women and lactating mothers are entitled to a ‘take-home ration’ of 600 calories per day during pregnancy and for six months thereafter.
