Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSSs)

• Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSSs) are government programmes funded jointly by the Central and State Governments, but implemented by the States. 

Key Features of Centrally Sponsored Schemes

• Funding Pattern: The cost of implementation is shared between the Central Government and State Governments.
  • • General States: 60:40 (Centre:State)
    • North-Eastern and Himalayan States: 90:10
    • Union Territories: 100% funded by the Centre
• Policy and Design: The Central Government formulates the policy framework and guidelines for the scheme.
  • State Governments are responsible for execution, adaptation to local needs, and monitoring on the ground.
• Objective:  Centrally Sponsored Schemes are aimed at:
  • Poverty alleviation
  • Health and education improvement
  • Rural development
  • Agriculture and irrigation support
  • Infrastructure development
  • Social welfare
• Examples of CSS: 
  • MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act)
  • PMAY-G (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin)
  • PMGSY (Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana)
  • Mid-Day Meal Scheme
  • National Health Mission
• Classification: As of recent reforms, CSS are categorized into Core of the Core, Core, and Optional schemes based on their national importance.
• Coordination: The NITI Aayog plays a role in the evaluation and rationalization of CSS.
• • Ministries and Departments of the central government oversee their respective schemes.

Central Sector Schemes (CSs)

• Central Sector Schemes are government initiatives fully funded and implemented by the Central Government of India. 

Key Features of Central Sector Schemes

• Funding: Unlike Centrally Sponsored Schemes (which involve cost-sharing with states), CSs are entirely financed by the Centre.
• Implementation: Usually implemented directly by central agencies, ministries, or public sector undertakings (PSUs). In some cases, state agencies may help in execution.
• Policy & Administration: Full control over design, administration, and monitoring lies with the central government.
• Objective: Focused on national importance, such as defense, atomic energy, space, and major infrastructure development.
• Examples of Central Sector Schemes:
  • PM-KISAN (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi)
  • UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik)
  • Startup India
  • Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
  • National Digital Health Mission