Current Affairs - State

Odisha has introduced a comprehensive unified health insurance scheme that merges Ayushman Bharat, Gopabandhu Jan Arogya, and Ayushman Vayo-Vandana Yojana. This initiative provides ₹5 lakh annual coverage per family, with an additional ₹5 lakh exclusively for women, ensuring broader health protection. Covering 352 lakh individuals from 1.08 crore families, the scheme enables access to cashless treatment at over 29,000 hospitals across India. Significantly, senior citizens aged 70 and above are included irrespective of income, promoting inclusive healthcare. Over 1,400 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) are also participating virtually in the launch, highlighting the state’s digital and healthcare infrastructure efforts.

Chhattisgarh has taken a significant step in the field of technology and industrial development by initiating its first semiconductor unit in Nava Raipur Atal Nagar. The foundation stone was laid by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, and the project will be developed by Polymatech Electronics, a Chennai-based company. Spread across 1,50,000 sq ft, the plant aims to promote tech-driven growth in the region. This initiative is part of the state government's vision to transform Nava Raipur into a hub for electronics and semiconductor innovation, akin to a Silicon Valley for Chhattisgarh, thereby boosting employment and technological advancement.

Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) is making its largest-ever single-location investment of ₹61,077 crore to develop a world-class petrochemical complex in Paradip, Odisha. This initiative aims to significantly enhance India’s petrochemical capabilities and boost industrial infrastructure in the eastern region. The project includes a dual-feed cracker and downstream units that will manufacture high-demand petrochemical products like polypropylene, phenol, PVC, and synthetic rubber. Strategically located in Paradip, with its strong coastal connectivity, the complex is expected to catalyze the growth of the Paradip Petroleum, Chemicals, and Petrochemicals Investment Region (PCPIR) and generate substantial employment, accelerating Odisha's transformation into a key industrial hub.

The Haryana government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, has taken a progressive step by announcing a 20% reservation for Agniveers in state police jobs. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure job security and long-term welfare for Agniveers after their tenure under the Agnipath Scheme. With this move, Haryana has become the first state in India to offer such a reservation. The policy also includes additional measures like a dedicated registration portal, financial assistance for self-employment, and preferential treatment for gun licenses, thereby supporting Agniveers in reintegrating into civilian life successfully.

West Bengal has recently received Geographical Indication (GI) tags for seven new traditional products, including the iconic Nolen Gurer Sandesh and Baruipur guavas. This recognition is a testament to the state’s commitment to preserving its rich cultural and culinary heritage. Nolen Gurer Sandesh, a beloved Bengali sweet made from chhena and date palm jaggery, is especially popular during the winter season. GI tags not only help protect the uniqueness of these regional specialities but also boost the local economy by giving these products greater visibility and commercial value in national and international markets. West Bengal now has 33 GI-tagged items.