Current Affairs - State

Punjab entered into a strategic partnership with the Footwear Design and Development Institute (FDDI) to enhance its manufacturing sector, particularly in sports goods, footwear, and leather industries. The agreement focuses on improving industrial infrastructure, providing access to advanced testing facilities, developing skilled manpower through technical training, and encouraging design and innovation. It also aims to create stronger market linkages, enabling local businesses to integrate with national and global supply chains. The initiative is especially beneficial for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), helping them improve competitiveness, expand exports, attract investments, and generate employment opportunities across the state.

Assam witnessed a significant boost in its energy infrastructure with the inauguration of domestic Piped Natural Gas (PNG) supply and CNG projects in Mangaldai and Tezpur by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on June 18, 2026. The initiative included PNG connections for households, CNG stations to improve fuel accessibility, and industrial gas supply to Patanjali Ayurved Limited. The Tezpur PNG network already serves more than 1,400 households and is expected to expand further. The project supports India's objective of reducing LPG imports, utilising locally produced natural gas more effectively, conserving foreign exchange, and enhancing long-term energy security across Assam.

Operation DRISHTI is a major humanitarian medical initiative undertaken by the Indian Army and Indian Air Force to provide advanced eye care services. The mega surgical eye camp was organised at Military Hospital Namkum in Ranchi, Jharkhand, from June 15 to 19, 2026. Led by Brigadier Dr Sanjay Kumar Mishra, the specialised ophthalmic team aimed to perform more than 200 free advanced eye surgeries. Beneficiaries included ex-servicemen, their dependents, serving personnel, and underprivileged civilians. The programme reflects the armed forces' commitment to combining medical expertise with community service, thereby improving healthcare access and supporting social welfare initiatives.

Odisha approved a proposal to revise the English spellings of 64 places across 26 districts to align them more closely with authentic Odia pronunciation and cultural identity. The initiative aims to preserve Odia Asmita by correcting colonial-era distortions in place names. Recommendations were made by a high-level committee headed by eminent Odia litterateur Pratibha Ray. Several well-known locations, including Cuttack, Balasore, and Angul, will receive revised spellings. Following approval, the state government will issue a gazette notification to the Ministry of Home Affairs, enabling updates across official records maintained by agencies such as the Survey of India, Indian Railways, and the Department of Posts.

Assam achieved a significant milestone in preserving its cultural heritage by securing GI tags for four traditional products: Karbi Anglong Handloom Products, Assam Bihu Pepa, Assam Bamboo Crafts, and Deuri Handloom Products. These products represent the state's rich traditions in weaving, music, handicrafts, and indigenous craftsmanship. The recognition helps protect these unique products from unauthorised use while promoting authentic regional producers. Supported by NABARD, the GI registration process strengthens market access for artisans and encourages sustainable livelihoods. With these additions, the number of NABARD-supported GI-certified products in Assam increased to 12, further enhancing the state's reputation as a centre of cultural diversity and traditional craftsmanship.