Current Affairs - State

Chhattisgarh's Modernisation of Command Area Development and Water Management (M-CAD) initiative received recognition from the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti for its effective approach to improving irrigation efficiency and water resource management. The programme was implemented using the state's own resources and focuses on enhancing water-use capacity, adopting scientific methods of water management, and expanding irrigation coverage. Due to its success, the Ministry recommended that all States and Union Territories consider adopting similar practices. The initiative highlights the importance of efficient water utilisation in agriculture and serves as a model for sustainable irrigation development across India.

The SNA Samman Ceremony 2026 was organised by the Uttar Pradesh Sangeet Natak Akademi in Lucknow to recognise 51 distinguished artistes for their exceptional contributions to classical music, folk music, dance, theatre, and traditional folk arts. The awards were presented for achievements during the years 2021 to 2024 and celebrated artists who have dedicated their lives to preserving and promoting India’s cultural heritage. The event also highlighted the importance of safeguarding traditional art forms while adapting them to modern platforms, ensuring that India's rich artistic legacy continues to inspire future generations.

West Bengal became the 33rd Legislature in India to adopt the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA) after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 4 June 2026. NeVA is a Mission Mode Project of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs aimed at digitising and modernising legislative functioning through a common digital platform. The initiative promotes paperless governance, transparency, efficiency, accessibility, and better record management. By joining NeVA, West Bengal contributed to the national vision of “One Nation – One Application,” which seeks to create a unified digital ecosystem for legislative institutions across the country.

The Swachha App was launched on May 30, 2026, in West Bengal by Union Minister Manohar Lal to improve urban waste management through real-time reporting. The initiative was introduced in Kolkata and initially covers 10 municipalities across the state, including Asansol, Durgapur, Basirhat, Pujali, Tufanganj, Contai, Krishnanagar, Baidyabati, and Madhyamgram. The app allows citizens to upload geo-tagged photographs of garbage accumulation, automatically forwards complaints to municipal authorities, and provides a digital feedback system with before-and-after cleaning verification, supporting efficient and scientific waste management practices.

Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) and other researchers announced the discovery of a new lizard species, Mesalina bishnoi, on June 1, 2026. The species was discovered near Gajner in the Bikaner district of Rajasthan and represents the first confirmed record of the genus Mesalina in India. It was named in honour of the Bishnoi community for their long-standing commitment to wildlife and environmental conservation. The lizard inhabits the arid landscapes of the Thar region and is currently considered endemic to western India. Genetic studies confirmed its placement within the Mesalina watsonana species complex.