Current Affairs - State

Tamil Nadu will host India’s first full-stack Sovereign AI Park, established through an MoU with Sarvam AI. The project involves a ₹10,000 crore investment over five years and aims to develop a secure AI ecosystem with dedicated government data centres, innovation clusters, and an institute for AI in governance. The initiative is expected to generate 1,000 high-skilled jobs and promote inclusive growth in the AI sector. By integrating research, innovation, and governance, the AI Park will position Tamil Nadu as a leading hub for advanced AI development and strengthen India’s technological capabilities.

Madhya Pradesh hosted the Regional AI Impact Conference 2026, organized by the IndiaAI Mission, MeitY, and the state government in Bhopal. During the event, an MoU was signed to establish 30 Data and AI Labs within the state, contributing to education, skilling, and innovation as part of a larger national rollout of 570 labs. The conference showcased practical AI use cases, recognized contest winners, and highlighted the key pillars of the IndiaAI Mission. This initiative reflects Madhya Pradesh’s growing role in promoting AI-driven development and strengthening India’s technological ecosystem.

Sikkim received the first instalment of XV Finance Commission Untied Grants totaling ₹643.50 lakh for FY 2025‑26, allocated to 5 District Panchayats and 199 Gram Panchayats. Additionally, ₹17.50 lakh from the withheld portion of FY 2024‑25 was released to one eligible District Panchayat. These grants are intended to empower local bodies to address their priority needs, excluding salaries and establishment costs. The funding strengthens decentralized governance, enabling Panchayats to plan and execute development projects based on local requirements, thereby enhancing grassroots democracy and ensuring efficient use of resources in rural areas.

Karnataka launched the Gruha Lakshmi Digital Marketing portal to empower women entrepreneurs, particularly rural artisans, by providing a platform to showcase and market their products. The portal features a diverse product range and a user-friendly interface, making it easier for women to reach wider audiences, including global markets. This initiative promotes inclusive economic growth by supporting women-led businesses and encouraging digital participation. By registering on the portal, women entrepreneurs can expand their visibility, enhance sales, and strengthen their contribution to the local and national economy.

Similipal National Park, located in Odisha, recorded an increase in its crocodile population from 81 to 84 during the census conducted from January 5 to 8. The survey covered 20 locations across eight major water bodies, with the Deo River alone accounting for 60 crocodiles. This growth is attributed to sustained conservation efforts, including hatchling releases from the Ramatirtha breeding centre. The rise reflects the effectiveness of targeted wildlife management strategies and highlights Odisha’s commitment to preserving and enhancing biodiversity in its protected areas.