New Delhi: The Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has greenlit the extension of the Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) as a centrally sponsored scheme. This initiative will persist from April 4, 2023, to March 31, 2026, requiring a total budget of Rs 1952.23 crore (Rs 1207.24 crore from the central share and Rs 744.99 crore from the state share). Funded through the Nirbhaya Fund, these specialized courts were initiated on October 2, 2019, as part of the government's commitment to prioritizing the safety and protection of women and children. The nation has been deeply affected by incidents involving the rape of females, necessitating swift and efficient legal actions. Recognizing the urgent need to expedite trials and ensure justice for victims of sexual offenses, the Central Government introduced "The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2018," enforcing severe penalties, including the death penalty for rape offenders. This legislation paved the way for the establishment of the Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs). These specialized courts, designed to accelerate the judicial process, aim to deliver timely relief to victims while strengthening the legal deterrent against sexual offenders. The FTSCs specifically target cases related to rape and offenses under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO Act). In August 2019, the Union of India devised a Centrally Sponsored Scheme to establish FTSCs, ensuring the prompt disposal of cases related to rape and crimes against children under the POCSO Act. Empowering Women in Agriculture: Cabinet Approves Drone Scheme for Self-Help Groups PM Modi to interact with Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra beneficiaries Tomorrow PM Modi To Distribute 51,000+ Job Letters At 'Rozgar Mela' Tomorrow