Current Affairs - State

Gujarat has taken a proactive step to strengthen cyber security in its energy sector by forming dedicated institutional mechanisms. The state government constituted an 11-member Core Committee and a 19-member Task Force to safeguard critical energy infrastructure such as smart grids, SCADA systems, and power supply networks. With increasing digitalisation of power systems and the need for uninterrupted 24×7 electricity, cyber risks have become a major concern. The initiative focuses on policy review, preparedness assessment, cyber drills, training programmes, and long-term capacity building to ensure resilience against cyber threats targeting vital power infrastructure.

The state of Goa will create its third district by carving out four talukas—Sanguem, Dharbandora, Quepem, and Canacona—from South Goa. The new district will have its headquarters at Quepem, aiming to enhance administrative efficiency and improve governance for hinterland and semi-rural areas. This decision aligns with NITI Aayog’s recommendations for smaller districts and the Aspirational District Programme, ensuring better delivery of public services and developmental benefits. By reducing administrative distances and focusing on regional growth, Goa seeks to strengthen infrastructure, health, education, and financial inclusion in its southern and interior regions.

Rajasthan launched the ‘e-Swasthya Samvad’ digital platform on December 28, 2025, with the objective of improving transparency, communication, and coordination in the field of medical education. The initiative facilitates regular interaction between medical staff, administrators, and students through video conferencing sessions held twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays. A key feature of the platform is the mandatory submission of action-taken reports within 72 hours for all decisions taken during these interactions. This mechanism ensures accountability, timely follow-up, and more efficient governance in medical institutions across the state.

The first-ever camera-trap evidence of a Clouded Leopard in Kakoi Reserve Forest was recorded in the state of Assam on December 28, 2025. This sighting is significant as it confirms the presence of this elusive and vulnerable species in smaller forest patches beyond major national parks. The Clouded Leopard, scientifically known as Neofelis nebulosa, is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List and enjoys the highest level of legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The finding highlights the ecological importance of reserve forests in conserving endangered wildlife.

Madhya Pradesh is set to become the first state in India to introduce medical colleges under the public-private partnership model. The initiative involves establishing new medical colleges in the districts of Dhar and Betul, where private partners will be responsible for building the required infrastructure. At the same time, the state government will retain administrative control over the associated district hospitals. These hospitals will be upgraded in strict compliance with National Medical Commission norms, ensuring quality medical education and healthcare delivery. This model aims to strengthen medical infrastructure while maintaining public oversight.