Current Affairs - State

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence conducted a major crackdown under Operation Sahyadri Checkmate, leading to the busting of a mobile mephedrone manufacturing laboratory hidden as a poultry farm. The operation took place in the Sahyadri ranges of Maharashtra, an area exploited by traffickers due to its difficult terrain and remoteness. Authorities seized nearly 22 kg of mephedrone in various forms along with 71.5 kg of raw materials used for production. The lab was designed to frequently relocate to avoid detection, highlighting the sophistication of the drug network. The seized NDPS substances were valued at approximately ₹55 crore, and five individuals were arrested.

Kerala has made a pioneering move by officially adopting Bacillus subtilis as its State Microbe, marking the first such recognition by any Indian state. This decision reflects Kerala’s strong emphasis on science, research, and sustainability-driven development. Bacillus subtilis is a beneficial microorganism known for its role in human health, agriculture, and environmental balance. The announcement coincided with the launch of the Centre of Excellence in Microbiome, which aims to advance research across health, agriculture, fisheries, and environmental conservation. The initiative highlights the growing importance of microbiome research in addressing global challenges such as disease resistance, soil health, and climate resilience.

The President’s Police Colour Award, also known as the Nishaan, is among the highest collective honours bestowed on police forces in India for sustained excellence, discipline, and professionalism. Sikkim Police earned this prestigious recognition, making Sikkim the 15th state in India and the third in the North-East to receive the award since Independence. The honour reflects the force’s long-term commitment to public service, integrity, and effective law enforcement in a strategically sensitive border state. The ceremonial presentation of the flag and insignia during a Colour Presentation Parade symbolises national pride and institutional achievement.

The foundation for the ₹450 crore Matabari Tourism Circuit has been laid in Tripura, aimed at boosting spiritual and eco-tourism. Key sites connected by the circuit include the Tripura Sundari Temple, Chabimura, and Dumbur Lake. The project will feature jetties, eco-resorts, and modern tourism facilities, with ₹276 crore funded by the Ministry of DoNER. This initiative is part of Tripura’s broader push to enhance tourism infrastructure, attract visitors, and generate economic growth through sustainable and culturally significant tourism projects.

Punjab has launched its first Dog Sanctuary in Ludhiana as a pilot initiative aimed at improving animal welfare while addressing public safety concerns related to stray dogs. The sanctuary is designed to manage stray dog populations in a humane and structured manner, following Supreme Court guidelines and Animal Birth Control rules. The initiative focuses on sheltering, sterilisation, vaccination, and controlled management to reduce dog bite incidents in urban areas. As a pilot project, it will help assess effectiveness before being replicated across other districts, creating a sustainable and legally compliant model for stray animal management.