Union Ministers provided key updates on various government initiatives in Parliament on Tuesday, covering refund distributions, agricultural storage projects, healthcare advancements, and renewable energy challenges.

₹2,025.75 Crore Refunded to Sahara Depositors

Cooperation Minister Amit Shah informed the Lok Sabha that as of January 28, 2025, a total of ₹2,025.75 crore has been distributed to 11.61 lakh depositors of the Sahara Group of Cooperative Societies.

• The funds are being disbursed via the CRCS-Sahara Refund Portal, which was established following a Supreme Court order on March 29, 2023.
• The portal aims to assist genuine depositors in retrieving their money.
• Each verified depositor receives up to ₹50,000 directly into their Aadhaar-linked bank account.
• Incomplete applications are being addressed through a resubmission portal launched on November 15, 2023 to ensure rightful claimants receive their refunds.
• The Ministry of Cooperation continues to take all necessary steps to process payments efficiently.

Pilot Grain Storage Project: Warehouses Completed in 11 States

Amit Shah also highlighted the progress of the Pilot Grain Storage Scheme, under which warehouses have been successfully built in 11 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) across 11 states.

26 PACS Selected for Petrol & Diesel Retail Outlets

• Out of 286 applications, 26 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) have been selected by Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to open petrol and diesel retail outlets.
• This initiative aims to enhance the financial viability of PACS while improving fuel accessibility in rural areas.

e-Sanjeevani Telemedicine Platform: 34 Crore Consultations

Union Health Minister JP Nadda informed the Rajya Sabha that the e-Sanjeevani platform has provided over 34 crore patient consultations since its launch in 2019.

• As of February 2, 2025, the platform has significantly reduced the burden on physical healthcare facilities.
• This digital health service has been particularly beneficial in rural and remote areas, enabling easy access to medical advice.

Challenges in Solar Park Development Due to Land Acquisition Issues

Union Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy, Shripad Naik, addressed the land acquisition challenges faced in setting up solar parks.

• As of December 31, 2024, 18 solar parks have been developed across the country.
• The Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme has benefited 8.86 lakh families by promoting rooftop solar installations.
• Acquiring large tracts of land remains a significant obstacle in scaling up solar power projects.

Ayushman Vaya Vandan Card: Over 47 Lakh Senior Citizens Enrolled

Union Minister of State for Health Prataprao Jadhav provided an update on the Ayushman Vaya Vandan Card, a healthcare scheme designed for senior citizens.

• As of February 6, 2025, more than 47 lakh elderly citizens have registered for the scheme.
• At least 1.10 lakh senior citizens aged 70+ have received hospitalization benefits, amounting to an expenditure of ₹202.96 crore.
• The initiative ensures affordable healthcare for the elderly, reducing financial burdens on families.