Current Affairs - State

The Union Finance Minister launched several developmental initiatives in Nagaland, reflecting the government's focus on strengthening infrastructure and financial inclusion in the Northeast. A new Industrial Training Institute was inaugurated in Kiphire to enhance local skill development. Additionally, ₹9 lakh was released under SBI’s CSR initiatives to support training programmes. During a Credit Outreach Programme, nine new bank branches were virtually launched across the region, and sanction letters were issued to beneficiaries. Loans totalling ₹28.02 crore were distributed to 350 individuals, demonstrating a significant push toward economic empowerment and improved access to banking services in the state.

The Motibhai R. Chaudhary Sagar Sainik School and the Sagar Organic Plant were inaugurated in Gujarat by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in attendance. The Sainik School, developed under the PPP model as part of the initiative to establish 100 new Sainik Schools, is designed to prepare young students in the state for careers in the Armed Forces. Alongside this, the Sagar Organic Plant, with a production capacity of 30 MT per day and certifications from NPOP and APEDA, will support the expansion of Amul’s organic product line, boosting the region’s agricultural and economic ecosystem.

Punjab became the first state in India to fully implement the amended Bharat Net Scheme, marking a major step forward in enhancing digital connectivity across rural regions. With the scheme’s rollout, the state enabled live monitoring of sensitive border areas while extending broadband services to 43 shadow zones that previously lacked dependable connectivity. The initiative aims to cover every village by the end of November 2025, ensuring digital inclusion for households and Gram Panchayats. Through improved access to e-health, e-governance, and digital services, Punjab is strengthening grassroots development and building a more connected rural ecosystem.

Maharashtra has introduced a comprehensive incentive scheme aimed at boosting the performance and efficiency of sugar factories across the state. The scheme evaluates factories on nine diverse parameters, including operational efficiency, environmental responsibility, financial stability, and technological adoption such as the use of AI. By recognizing three cooperative and three private factories annually, the initiative encourages healthy competition and continuous improvement. A two-tier evaluation framework ensures transparency and fairness through dedicated Screening and Steering Committees. This structured assessment approach helps the state promote sustainable and innovative practices within the sugar industry.

Nagaland has announced a comprehensive initiative to establish Old Age Homes across all its districts, reflecting the state’s commitment to enhancing elderly welfare and protection. Spearheaded by Advisor Wangpang Konyak, the plan emphasises providing care, nutrition, and social security for vulnerable senior citizens. It aligns with existing welfare programmes such as the Old Age Pension, Elderly Helpline, and Charity Care initiatives. This effort seeks to ensure dignified living conditions and community support for the aged population, showcasing a proactive approach to inclusive governance and social responsibility toward the elderly in Nagaland.