Current Affairs - State

The Cabinet has approved the construction of a 6-lane access-controlled Capital Region Ring Road in Odisha at a cost of ₹8,307.74 crore. This project includes the Bhubaneswar Bypass, which is designed to divert heavy commercial traffic away from Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, and Khordha. By reducing congestion in these key urban areas, the road will significantly enhance freight movement efficiency and lower logistics costs. Furthermore, the project is expected to stimulate socio-economic growth across the region, improve connectivity, and create opportunities for trade and industry, making it a transformative step for Odisha’s infrastructure development.

Tamil Nadu recorded the highest consumer case disposal rate of 277% in July 2025, far surpassing other states as well as the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC). This means Tamil Nadu disposed of more than twice the number of cases filed during the month, reflecting exceptional efficiency in its consumer grievance redressal system. Alongside Tamil Nadu, states like Rajasthan, Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, and Kerala also achieved impressive disposal rates above 100%. The success highlights the growing impact of the e-Jagriti platform, which enables online complaint filing, real-time tracking, and virtual hearings, thereby strengthening consumer justice delivery in India.

ISRO, in partnership with the Muskaan Foundation, inaugurated a space laboratory in Mechuka, Shi-Yomi district of Arunachal Pradesh, on August 16, 2025. The facility, named the Pasang Wangchuk Sona ISRO Space Laboratory, was launched to provide rural students with hands-on exposure to space science and STEM learning. Situated in a remote area near the India-China border, this initiative reflects ISRO’s commitment to making advanced education accessible even in geographically challenging regions. By fostering curiosity and innovation among youth, the laboratory aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and strengthen India’s future space research and technology capabilities.

The Bihar government has taken a significant step to honor the contributions of political prisoners jailed during the Emergency by doubling the pension under the JP Senani Scheme. Those imprisoned for 1 to 6 months will now receive ₹15,000, up from ₹7,500, while those jailed for over 6 months will get ₹30,000, compared to the earlier ₹15,000. Additionally, the government has also increased the honorarium for Booth Level Officers (BLOs), reflecting its commitment to welfare measures. This move not only recognises historical sacrifices but also strengthens the state’s social support system for beneficiaries.

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has cleared the construction of the Tato-II Hydro Electric Project in Shi Yomi district of Arunachal Pradesh with an outlay of ₹8,146.21 crore. Designed to generate 700 MW of clean energy through four units of 175 MW each, the project is expected to produce 2,738.06 million units annually. It will bring multiple benefits including 12% free power to the state, additional local development funding, employment opportunities, and infrastructure upgrades such as roads, bridges, schools, and hospitals. Strategically, it strengthens renewable energy capacity and integrates Arunachal Pradesh into the national power and economic framework.