Current Affairs - State

Madhya Pradesh has announced the introduction of a rolling budget system, making it the first state in India to adopt this approach. Under this initiative, the state will prepare budget estimates for 2026–27 along with indicative budgets for 2027–28 and 2028–29. The move, announced by the Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister, aims to make the budgeting process more transparent, public-friendly, practical, and focused on measurable outcomes. A rolling budget allows better medium-term planning, improves fiscal discipline, and enables the government to align spending priorities with long-term development goals.

Tamil Nadu has initiated a focused conservation drive aimed at studying and protecting smooth-coated otters in the Cauvery delta region. The programme covers key districts such as Thanjavur, Thiruvarur, and Cuddalore, where these vulnerable mammals are found. The initiative includes scientific population assessments, detailed habitat mapping, and measures to address threats like water pollution, habitat degradation, and human-wildlife conflict. Recognised as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List, smooth-coated otters require targeted protection. The state government has approved a budget of ₹20 lakh for the 2025–26 period to support this conservation effort.

Assam is the state where the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for a major ammonia urea fertilizer plant with an investment of ₹10,601 crore. The project is located at Namrup in the Dibrugarh district and is being developed by Assam Valley Fertilizer and Chemical Company Limited, a joint venture involving multiple public sector undertakings. Designed to produce 12.7 lakh metric tonnes of urea annually, the plant aims to strengthen fertilizer availability and agricultural productivity. Its commissioning is targeted by 2030, reflecting a long-term strategy to boost industrial development and economic growth in the region.

Karnataka was selected for the launch of the ‘VijAIpatha’ initiative, a CSR-driven project inaugurated by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to strengthen technology-based education in government schools. Under this programme, five advanced AI, STEM, and robotics labs are being established in schools located in the Hosapete taluka. These labs are equipped with AI-ready computer systems, robotics kits, and broadband connectivity. The initiative aligns with the National Education Policy 2020 and the Digital India mission, aiming to enhance digital literacy, innovation, and future-ready skills among students in the public education system.

The Platform Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Act, 2025 represents a significant labour reform initiative aimed at protecting workers engaged in the gig and platform economy. By approving this legislation, Jharkhand has created a formal legal framework to ensure minimum wages, social security benefits, and welfare measures for gig workers across sectors such as transport, delivery, and logistics. The law also establishes a dedicated Gig Workers Welfare Board to oversee registration, implementation of schemes, and regulatory compliance. This step highlights Jharkhand’s proactive approach in addressing employment vulnerabilities in the rapidly expanding digital economy.