Current Affairs - State

The Uttar Pradesh government has initiated a comprehensive river revival program targeting 75 small rivers and tributaries, involving premier technical institutes like IIT Kanpur, IIT BHU, and IIT Roorkee. These institutions are developing customised revival plans considering geographical, ecological and social parameters. The multi-departmental effort represents one of India's most systematic attempts at aquatic ecosystem restoration, combining scientific expertise with coordinated governmental action. This large-scale environmental intervention underscores UP's commitment to water resource management, particularly focusing on smaller water bodies that are crucial for rural water security but often overlooked in conservation programs.

Gujarat became the first Indian state to officially join the Cruise Bharat Mission, a national initiative launched to make India a global cruise tourism hub by 2029. With a coastline stretching 2,340 km—the longest among Indian states—Gujarat is now focusing on building cruise infrastructure and developing new cruise circuits. Key destinations in the state, like Diu, Dwarka, Veraval, and Jamnagar, will be connected through coastal routes, enhancing tourist accessibility. The state’s early involvement sets a strong example for other coastal regions and is expected to generate economic benefits through tourism, job creation, and infrastructure investment.

Uttarakhand is set to celebrate the Harela festival on July 16, 2025, by planting more than 5 lakh saplings across the state, aiming to break its previous plantation record. The event is themed “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” and “Harela Ka Tyohar Manao, Dharti Maa Ka Rin Chukao,” promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices. Saplings will be planted across public and residential areas, and the initiative will see participation from schools, local communities, and government bodies. This ambitious drive reflects Uttarakhand’s strong commitment to green initiatives and climate-conscious development.

On July 10, 2025, Uttarakhand launched 'Operation Kalanemi' under the leadership of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. The initiative aims to identify and take strict legal action against individuals impersonating saints to deceive people, especially targeting innocent devotees. The operation derives its name from Kalanemi, a demon in Hindu mythology who misled people by appearing saintly. Given Uttarakhand's spiritual significance with destinations like Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Kedarnath, the move is seen as a serious step to protect religious integrity and social harmony while preventing misuse of faith for personal or financial gain.

The ‘Gajah Mitra’ scheme was launched by the Assam government to address the escalating issue of human-elephant conflict in the state. With over 1,400 human and 1,209 elephant deaths between 2000 and 2023, Assam recognized the urgent need for action. The scheme targets 80 high-risk areas and includes strategies like growing elephant-friendly crops such as bamboo and Napier grass to reduce intrusion into villages. It also deploys rapid response teams to guide elephants away safely. By promoting non-violent methods and involving communities, the scheme aims to ensure peaceful coexistence and reduce tragic encounters between people and wildlife.