Current Affairs - State

Assam is the state where the new blind groundwater fish species ‘Gitchak nakana’ was discovered in Goalpara district. This remarkable finding marks the first recorded instance of a groundwater-dwelling fish from Northeast India and the broader Eastern Himalayan region. The tiny, translucent red fish measures about 2 cm in length and exhibits classic subterranean adaptations such as complete blindness, lack of pigmentation, and absence of a skull roof. Found in underground aquifers rather than caves, the discovery highlights the rich yet fragile biodiversity of the Brahmaputra Valley and underscores the need for groundwater conservation.

Maharashtra is the state where GAIL (India) Limited has approved a ₹1,736 crore investment for a greenfield wind power project. This initiative represents the company’s largest single renewable energy investment so far and reflects its strategic transition toward becoming an integrated energy player. The proposed wind farm is expected to have a capacity of around 300–350 MW, with construction likely to begin in 2026–27 and commercial operations targeted for 2028–29. The project supports GAIL’s goal of achieving nearly 2 GW of renewable capacity by 2030 and contributes to India’s broader non-fossil fuel energy ambitions.

Haryana has announced the launch of CM Shri Schools, modelled on the central government’s PM Shri Schools initiative to enhance the quality of state-run education. The new schools will follow the CBSE curriculum pattern, ensuring structured academic standards, skill-based learning, and improved preparation for competitive examinations. The initiative also emphasizes modern infrastructure and better learning outcomes. Additionally, the state continues to implement 25% reservation for Economically Weaker Sections under the Right to Education Act, promoting inclusive access to quality education. This combined reform approach aims to strengthen educational standards and equity across the state.

Punjab launched the ‘Meri Rasoi’ scheme to provide free food kits to nearly 40 lakh economically weaker families holding blue cards. The initiative, announced by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann ahead of the state’s Budget Session, aims to address nutritional gaps among low-income households. Under the first phase from April to June 2026, beneficiaries will receive essential items such as chana dal, sugar, iodized salt, turmeric powder, and mustard oil. The scheme focuses on improving child health, reducing malnutrition, strengthening food security, and ensuring that vulnerable families receive balanced and nutritious food supplies regularly.

Telangana initiated ‘Operation Crackdown’ as a statewide, multi-agency drive to aggressively target and dismantle organised cybercrime networks. The campaign focuses on offences such as call centre fraud, digital arrest scams, investment fraud, sextortion, and job fraud. Led by the Telangana Police Cyber Security Bureau in coordination with local police, CID, SIT, and other specialised units, the operation involves coordinated raids, arrests, asset seizures, and intelligence-based actions across districts. The initiative aims to disrupt the entire cybercrime ecosystem, from front-end fraudsters to financial handlers, reinforcing a strict zero-tolerance approach toward cyber offenders.