Current Affairs - State

The ‘Baaj Akh’ Anti-Drone System (ADS) was launched by the Punjab Government in Tarn Taran to tackle drug smuggling from across the border using drones. This advanced system can swiftly neutralise any drones entering Indian territory from hostile areas. Initially, three units have been deployed, with six more planned soon. The ADS will be strategically placed from Pathankot to Fazilka, acting as a second line of defence in close coordination with the Border Security Force (BSF), thereby enhancing border security and curbing the inflow of illegal substances.

The World Lions Day 2025 on August 10 state-level celebration took place in Devbhoomi Dwarka, Gujarat, where Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated and laid the foundation for projects worth ₹179 crore. A key highlight was the designation of the Barda area as the second habitat for lions in the state. Remarkably, lions have naturally returned to Barda Dungar after a gap of 143 years. Gujarat’s lions, especially the Asiatic lions of the Gir forest, are seen as a source of national pride, and these initiatives aim to strengthen their conservation and expand their safe habitats for future generations.

Maharashtra has become the first state in India to roll out ‘Disha Abhiyan’, a state-wide initiative ensuring uniform and quality education for students with intellectual disabilities. Implemented across 453 special schools, the programme features a standardised curriculum developed by the Jai Vakil Foundation and certified by the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (NIEPID). Drawing on over 80 years of expertise in special education, it includes global best practices, research-backed teaching strategies, and vocational training modules. This initiative aims to eliminate disparities in teaching quality, promote independence, and align with the nation’s inclusive development vision for 2047.

National Waterway-57, located on the Kopili River, has been made operational in Assam, adding to the state’s existing network of inland waterways, which includes Brahmaputra (NW 2), Barak (NW 16), and Dhansiri (NW 31). This development strengthens Inland Water Transport (IWT) as part of India’s Maritime India Vision 2030 and PM Gati Shakti initiatives. IWT offers cost-effective, fuel-efficient, and eco-friendly cargo and passenger movement, with minimal environmental disruption. Operationalising NW-57 enhances connectivity in the Northeast, supports multimodal logistics, and promotes economic growth through cargo transport, eco-tourism, and ferry services, aligning with national goals to boost the freight share of inland waterways.

Sarnath, located near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage sites. It is the place where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment, known as the Dhammachakkappavattana. Historically referred to as Rishipatana and Mrigadava, Sarnath has monuments dating from the Mauryan to the Gahadavala period, including the Chaukhandi Stupa, Dhamek Stupa, Dharmarajika Stupa, and the Ashokan Pillar crowned by the Lion Capital. The site flourished under various dynasties, endured invasions, and underwent restorations. It remains a vital cultural and religious landmark, now officially nominated for UNESCO World Heritage recognition for the 2025–26 cycle.