Current Affairs - State

Andhra Pradesh launched a free electricity scheme aimed at supporting weaver families across the state, benefiting nearly 1.03 lakh households. The initiative covers both handloom and powerloom workers, providing 200 units and 500 units of free electricity per month, respectively. This measure is expected to significantly reduce operational costs and improve income stability, with estimated annual savings ranging from ₹8,000 to ₹21,000 per family. With a budget allocation of around ₹150 crore annually, the scheme reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening traditional industries and ensuring the welfare of artisans.

Tripura has achieved national recognition as three of its Panchayats received the National Satat Vikas Puraskar 2025 for their outstanding work in sustainable development. Sepahijala District Panchayat secured the top position in the “Best District Panchayat” category, while Kanchabari Gram Panchayat ranked first in the “Healthy Panchayat” category. Baikunthapur Gram Panchayat earned third place in the “Women-Friendly Panchayat” category. These awards highlight effective grassroots governance and development initiatives. The recognition is accompanied by financial assistance from the central government to further strengthen local development and improve living standards in these regions.

Madhya Pradesh launched the ‘School Chalen Hum’ campaign to boost student enrollment and ensure that no child is left out of the education system. The initiative covers all districts and thousands of villages, aiming to enroll a large number of students in the academic year 2025-26. The campaign includes simplified admission processes, distribution of textbooks, and infrastructure improvements in schools. Additionally, the state is focusing on teacher recruitment, language inclusivity, and welfare schemes such as providing laptops, scooters, uniforms, and hostels to support students, particularly those from marginalised communities.

Odisha is the state where the Coal to Ammonium Nitrate project is being developed following a land leasing agreement between Bharat Coal Gasification and Chemicals Limited (BCGCL) and Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL). The project is located in Lakhanpur and focuses on converting coal into ammonium nitrate, a key chemical used in fertilizers and industrial explosives. This initiative supports India’s broader goal of reducing import dependency and enhancing self-reliance in the chemical and energy sectors through coal gasification technology, thereby contributing to both regional industrial growth and national economic objectives.

Punjab is the state where the cabinet approved the Mukh Mantri Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojna aimed at supporting women through direct financial assistance. The scheme ensures monthly cash transfers to eligible women, promoting financial independence and dignity. It provides ₹1,000 per month for general category women and ₹1,500 for Scheduled Caste women. Women aged 18 and above who are registered voters and residents of the state can benefit. With no family cap and additional benefits alongside existing pensions, the initiative strengthens social security and financial inclusion across both urban and rural areas.