Current Affairs - State

The newly sanctioned rail line project between Karhi and Sagma is situated in Madhya Pradesh and has received approval from the Railway Board. With a total estimated cost of over 165 crore rupees, this 5.31-kilometre bi-directional chord line falls under the West Central Railway (WCR) zone. It aims to enhance rail connectivity by linking the Lalitpur–Singrauli new line to the existing Itarsi–Manikpur line. This development is expected to improve operational efficiency, reduce congestion, and facilitate smoother freight and passenger movement in the region, contributing to the overall infrastructure growth in Madhya Pradesh.

The AI anchor Ankita was launched in the state of Assam by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. This initiative is part of the state’s broader push toward digital transformation and improving citizen engagement through innovative technologies. Ankita serves as a virtual anchor providing updates on significant state decisions, such as the renaming of Dibrugarh Airport after Bhupen Hazarika. The move demonstrates Assam’s commitment to integrating artificial intelligence into governance and public communication. Such advancements follow earlier tech adoptions like AI teacher ‘Iris’ in schools and AI anchors like Krish and Bhoomi on Doordarshan Kisan.

Gujarat has taken a significant step toward strengthening digital governance and law enforcement by launching two new portals under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. The Cyber Crime Refund Portal, named "Tera Tujhko Arpan," aims to expedite the refund process for victims of cybercrime, ensuring quicker financial recovery. The i-PRAGATI portal enhances transparency by providing real-time SMS updates to complainants on key developments such as FIR filings and arrests. These tools collectively empower citizens and improve efficiency within the Gujarat Police, reinforcing the state’s commitment to tech-driven public safety and responsive governance.

Maharashtra has taken a proactive step toward environmental sustainability by launching a comprehensive policy mandating the use of artificial sand, or m-sand, in all government and semi-government construction projects. Approved on May 13, 2025, this policy is aimed at curbing illegal river sand mining, reducing ecological degradation, and promoting sustainable construction practices. It includes provisions such as setting up 1,500 crusher units across districts, allotting state land for such units, granting MSME status to producers, and reducing royalty rates on m-sand. This initiative not only safeguards natural resources but also boosts local industry and employment.

Uttar Pradesh has expanded its flagship One District One Product (ODOP) scheme by including 12 additional region-specific products, bringing the total number of recognized products to 74. This initiative, launched in 2018, aims to promote local craftsmanship, generate employment, and boost exports by focusing on one unique product per district. The newly added products include items like agricultural implements from Baghpat, hosiery from Saharanpur, and food processing goods from Firozabad and Pratapgarh. This move is part of the state’s larger vision to drive economic growth and achieve a $1 trillion economy by 2029 through localised industrial development.