Current Affairs - State

Andhra Pradesh approved the Policy on Reuse of Treated Used Water, 2026, with the objective of improving water security, promoting climate resilience, and supporting sustainable urban development. Aligned with the Swarna Andhra Vision 2047, the policy aims to meet at least 20% of urban water demand through treated wastewater reuse. It also mandates the use of treated water in sectors such as thermal power plants, construction, and urban services while encouraging industrial reuse. The policy includes phased implementation across all Urban Local Bodies and promotes efficient water management through modern infrastructure and monitoring systems.

The GO-EAST (Government of Odisha Eastern Investment Accelerator and Special Task Force) policy was launched by Odisha to promote industrial growth, attract fresh investments, and speed up project implementation. The initiative includes a dedicated investment facilitation platform, faster approvals, real-time project tracking, and a specialised GO-EAST Cell supported by the Go SWIFT digital monitoring module. The policy also focuses on developing backward districts by providing additional incentives for non-mineral-based industries. Through this initiative, Odisha aims to become Eastern India's leading manufacturing hub while supporting balanced regional development and enhancing investor confidence.

The newly discovered tiger moth genus Antaram idukki was identified in the Idukki district of Kerala, located in the biodiversity-rich Western Ghats. The genus belongs to the subfamily Arctiinae under the family Erebidae and represents a previously unknown evolutionary lineage. The species was discovered by researchers from the Zoological Survey of India and the Natural History Museum, London. Its habitat in the Western Ghats highlights the ecological importance of the region, as the moth serves as both a pollinator and a food source for various animals, making it an important indicator of ecosystem health.

Uttar Pradesh became the location for India's first private-sector Hybrid 2G Ethanol Project after receiving financial assistance of ₹150 crore from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. Approved under the PM JI-VAN Yojana, the project aims to produce sustainable ethanol using agricultural residues such as sugarcane bagasse. It combines biomass gasification and gas fermentation technologies to convert waste into clean fuel. The initiative supports India's target of achieving 20% ethanol blending in petrol, promotes renewable energy, reduces dependence on fossil fuels, and encourages the productive use of agricultural waste while strengthening the country's biofuel ecosystem.

Khurasani Imli, a unique fruit obtained from the African Baobab tree (Adansonia digitata), is closely associated with the historic town of Mandu in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh. It was awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag to recognise its distinct identity, heritage, and strong connection to the region. Mandu hosts India's largest natural cluster of Baobab trees, and the area's specific soil and climatic conditions contribute to the fruit's unique characteristics. The GI Tag protects the authenticity of the product and preserves its cultural, historical, and ecological significance for future generations.