Current Affairs - State

Maharashtra is set to strengthen its agricultural research infrastructure with the establishment of a dedicated raisin research centre in Sangli district under Shivaji University, Kolhapur. The centre aims to address key challenges faced by raisin growers, such as rising export competition, quality standards, and limited access to scientific research. By focusing on improved raisin varieties, processing techniques, value addition, and skill development, the initiative is expected to boost farmer income and enhance global competitiveness. The phased rollout approach will ensure early benefits while building long-term research and training capacity for the raisin sector.

Odisha has announced the organisation of special Gram Sabhas across all areas governed under the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996, to commemorate the National PESA Mahotsav. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and highlights the state’s focus on strengthening grassroots democracy in Scheduled Areas. The initiative is jointly organised by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. PESA, which came into force on December 24, 1996, aims to empower tribal communities by granting them greater self-governance through Gram Sabhas.

Madhya Pradesh has announced the introduction of a rolling budget system, making it the first state in India to adopt this approach. Under this initiative, the state will prepare budget estimates for 2026–27 along with indicative budgets for 2027–28 and 2028–29. The move, announced by the Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister, aims to make the budgeting process more transparent, public-friendly, practical, and focused on measurable outcomes. A rolling budget allows better medium-term planning, improves fiscal discipline, and enables the government to align spending priorities with long-term development goals.

Tamil Nadu has initiated a focused conservation drive aimed at studying and protecting smooth-coated otters in the Cauvery delta region. The programme covers key districts such as Thanjavur, Thiruvarur, and Cuddalore, where these vulnerable mammals are found. The initiative includes scientific population assessments, detailed habitat mapping, and measures to address threats like water pollution, habitat degradation, and human-wildlife conflict. Recognised as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List, smooth-coated otters require targeted protection. The state government has approved a budget of ₹20 lakh for the 2025–26 period to support this conservation effort.

Assam is the state where the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for a major ammonia urea fertilizer plant with an investment of ₹10,601 crore. The project is located at Namrup in the Dibrugarh district and is being developed by Assam Valley Fertilizer and Chemical Company Limited, a joint venture involving multiple public sector undertakings. Designed to produce 12.7 lakh metric tonnes of urea annually, the plant aims to strengthen fertilizer availability and agricultural productivity. Its commissioning is targeted by 2030, reflecting a long-term strategy to boost industrial development and economic growth in the region.