Current Affairs - State

Andhra Pradesh became the host state for the major ₹5,400 crore solar manufacturing project initiated by ReNew Energy Global plc in Anakapalli district. The project involves setting up a 6 GW solar ingot and wafer manufacturing facility aimed at strengthening India’s renewable energy supply chain and supporting clean energy goals. Introduced under the Andhra Pradesh Integrated Clean Energy Policy 2024, the initiative is expected to be completed within 24 months and generate more than 2,100 direct and indirect jobs. ReNew Energy Global plc has also committed a total investment of ₹82,000 crore in the state, highlighting Andhra Pradesh’s growing role in renewable energy development.

Maharashtra launched the ‘Kasa Kay?’ public awareness campaign on May 19, 2026, as part of the ‘Majhe Gaav, Arogya Sampanna Gaav’ initiative to improve healthcare awareness in rural regions. The campaign focuses on preventive healthcare, disease control, sanitation, nutrition, and access to clean drinking water. Villages demonstrating strong health performance will receive the title of “Arogya Sampanna Gaav.” The initiative was inaugurated in Mumbai by the Chief Minister and included the release of an official health song, promotional materials, and informational booklets. The program reflects Maharashtra’s efforts to strengthen rural healthcare systems and encourage healthier community practices across villages.

Shyam Metalics and Energy Limited announced a major investment plan worth ₹10,000 crore in West Bengal for multiple industrial projects over the next three years. A large portion of the investment is being directed toward the Jamuria facility in Paschim Bardhaman district for manufacturing hot rolled coils, speciality steel, and carbon steel products. The company is also expanding operations in Kharagpur after acquiring Ramsarup Industries through the NCLT process. The expansion includes plans for a railway coach manufacturing unit and a speciality steel plant. The investment reflects West Bengal’s growing importance as a destination for industrial development and steel manufacturing in India.

Maharashtra signed major Memorandums of Understanding with four leading companies to develop 25,400 MW of nuclear power capacity with a total planned investment of ₹6.5 lakh crore. The projects involve companies such as NTPC Limited, Adani Power, Reliance Industries Limited, and Lalitpur Power Generation Company. These initiatives include the development of advanced nuclear technologies such as Bharat Small Reactors and Small Modular Reactors. Large-scale projects are planned in Ratnagiri district and other regions, with expectations of generating significant employment opportunities. The move reflects Maharashtra’s commitment to expanding clean energy infrastructure and strengthening India’s long-term energy security through nuclear power development.

The West Bengal Cabinet approved several major welfare and administrative measures on May 18, 2026, under the leadership of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. One of the key initiatives was the launch of the ₹3,000 monthly ‘Annapurna’ financial aid scheme for women, replacing the earlier Lakshmir Bhandar scheme. The government also introduced free travel for women on all state-run buses to encourage financial independence and workforce participation. Additionally, religion-based stipends for imams, muezzins, and priests were discontinued, with funds redirected toward merit-based scholarships. These reforms reflected a broader focus on welfare expansion, social equity, and governance restructuring.