Current Affairs - State

Rocklink India established the country’s first integrated lithium-ion battery and rare earth recycling facility in Sikandrabad, located in Uttar Pradesh. The plant is equipped to recycle 10,000 tonnes of lithium-ion batteries annually and process rare-earth materials efficiently. Using advanced in-house R2 technology, it achieves a recovery rate exceeding 98% for key metals. The facility supports sustainable waste management and strengthens India’s electric mobility ecosystem. It also follows Extended Producer Responsibility norms, ensuring environmentally responsible recycling practices and contributing to the development of a circular supply chain in the country.

The state government that approved accommodation facilities for patients’ relatives in medical colleges, along with a substantial healthcare budget allocation of ₹5,479 crore, is Madhya Pradesh. This initiative aims to improve support systems for patients’ families without a direct financial burden on the state, as philanthropic organisations will manage the facilities. Additionally, the funding supports major healthcare infrastructure upgrades, including the CM CARE 2025 scheme and improvements in medical colleges. The plan emphasizes strengthening tertiary healthcare services such as oncology and cardiology, while also enhancing administrative and developmental programs within the state.

The green ammonia production facility under the partnership between L&T Energy GreenTech Ltd and Japan’s ITOCHU Corporation is planned to be established in Gujarat, specifically at Kandla. This project is significant as it supports the production of green fuel aimed at reducing carbon emissions in the maritime shipping sector. The facility will supply 300,000 tonnes of green ammonia annually, primarily for use in green bunkering operations in Singapore. It also aligns with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission, which focuses on developing sustainable energy solutions and positioning India as a global hub for green fuel exports.

Odisha has been selected as the location for India’s first advanced 3D semiconductor packaging unit, marking a significant milestone in the country’s push toward self-reliance in high-end electronics manufacturing. The project, established at Info Valley with an investment of around ₹2,000 crore, will introduce cutting-edge 3D heterogeneous integration technology. This initiative supports sectors such as artificial intelligence, 5G, defence electronics, and high-performance computing. It also aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision by strengthening domestic semiconductor capabilities, reducing import dependence, generating employment, and positioning Odisha as a major hub in India’s growing technology ecosystem.

Punjab implemented stricter penalties for sacrilege through the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The legislation prescribes life imprisonment and a fine of up to ₹25 lakh for acts of ‘beadbi’ against the Guru Granth Sahib. The bill was passed by the state legislative assembly and later received the Governor’s assent, making it enforceable within the state. This law reflects the importance of safeguarding religious sentiments and maintaining public order, while also demonstrating the constitutional authority of states to legislate on matters concerning law and order.