Current Affairs - State

Karnataka has been selected as the location for India’s first private helicopter assembly facility, where Airbus and Tata Advanced Systems will set up a final assembly line for the H125 helicopter. This plant will be located in Kolar and aims to strengthen India’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities as part of the Make in India initiative. The facility will not only serve domestic needs but also cater to the helicopter requirements of neighbouring countries. This move is a significant step towards promoting self-reliance in the defence and aerospace sector and underscores Karnataka’s growing importance in India’s industrial development.

The newly discovered species of cave-dwelling fish, Schistura densiclava, was found in Krem Mawjymbuin, an underground cave located in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. This fish is notable for its ability to adapt to both subterranean and overground stream environments, making it an important find for zoologists. The discovery was led by a team from Gauhati University's Department of Zoology. Meghalaya’s rich cave systems continue to provide valuable insights into biodiversity, and this finding highlights the ecological importance and unique habitat conditions found within the state.

Tamil Nadu launched its Space Industrial Policy in April 2025 with the goal of attracting ₹10,000 crore in investments and creating 10,000 direct and indirect jobs over the next five years. This initiative places the state among the leading regions in India with dedicated plans to support the private space sector, alongside Karnataka and Gujarat. The policy promotes innovation in manufacturing, design, R&D, and electronics for space applications. With infrastructure like the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri and the upcoming spaceport at Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu is positioning itself as a major player in India’s growing space economy.

Gujarat has achieved full railway route electrification, becoming the 24th State or Union Territory in India to do so. This development was highlighted during the launch of the Dahod Electric Locomotive Factory, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the importance of this achievement in supporting India’s green mobility goals. The move is a significant step in reducing reliance on fossil fuels, cutting operational costs, and aligning with India’s broader commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2070. Gujarat’s complete electrification also contributes to Indian Railways’ target of becoming a net-zero carbon emitter by 2030, reinforcing the country’s global sustainability commitments.

The Nagshankar Temple, recognized for its efforts in turtle conservation, is located in the Biswanath district of Assam, near Sootea town. This temple is not only a site of religious importance—dedicated to Lord Shiva—but also plays a vital role in ecological preservation by honouring turtles as incarnations of Lord Vishnu. Declared a model temple on World Turtle Day, it serves as an exemplary blend of cultural heritage and wildlife conservation. The temple's unique role reinforces Assam's commitment to both environmental and spiritual values.